By mapping practical pathways and long-term opportunities, the report aims to inspire collective commitment and innovation now and in the next phase of global development.
10 years of a Global Goal for water: What for?
A dedicated Global Goal for water and sanitation (SDG 6, learn more here) to address the entire water cycle, was adopted ten years ago. Since then, it has helped countries align policies, strengthen institutions, mobilize investment, and measure progress.
It has also strengthened the connections between water and health, food, energy, human rights, climate, ecosystems and sustainable development.
More countries are reporting year-on-year improvements and strengthening water governance. Yet, achieving universal access to safe drinking water by 2030 would require current rates of progress to increase eightfold. For sanitation, progress must accelerate sixfold.
The Synthesis Report: a driver for action
At the same time, water stress is increasing in many regions, data gaps remain, and declining official development assistance threatens progress.
The United Nations SDG 6 Synthesis Report on Water and Sanitation 2026 highlights where greater investment, stronger institutions and coordinated action are needed to keep SDG 6 within reach.
As discussions on the global development agenda beyond 2030 begin, the experience of SDG 6 demonstrates the value of retaining a dedicated global goal for water and sanitation to sustain progress and drive future action.
Progress on water and sanitation is accelerating — but not fast enough.
► Learn more, download, and read the United Nations SDG 6 Synthesis Report on Water and Sanitation 2026: link here
