The concept of global water governance and water rights through the prism of Canaan, Haiti.

 

The rapid, uncontrolled urbanization observed in many developing cities, including Port-au-Prince, leads to the creation of slums like Canaan, often lacking basic services such as sanitation and access to clean water. This situation presents significant health and environmental risks, while also violating the fundamental human right to water and sanitation.

Considering the approaches within the context of global water governance, the summary examines how Canaan exemplifies the challenges faced by marginalized populations in securing their basic water needs. It investigates into the historical and legal context of the right to water, tracing its evolution from a social right to a fundamental human right recognized by the United Nations.

This research ultimately seeks to shed light on the critical need for effective water governance strategies that prioritize equitable access to water and sanitation for all, especially vulnerable communities like those residing in Canaan. It emphasizes the importance of upholding human rights and ensuring the well-being of all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic background or location.

 

Methodology

Haiti's history of natural disasters, including the devastating 2010 earthquake, has led to displacement and unplanned settlements like Canaan. Situated roughly 18 km north of Port-au-Prince, Canaan lies in the midst of fertile plains and deforested mountains. Its geographical coordinates are 18° 38' 46" N, 72° 16' 23" W, placing it within the "Low Mountains" agro-ecological area.Once envisioned for tourism, Canaan rapidly transformed into a densely populated community of over 250,000 inhabitants after the earthquake. This unplanned growth has exposed Canaan to environmental threats. The area receives significant rainfall, but deforestation and quarrying activities have reduced its ability to absorb water, increasing the risk of floods and erosion. Additionally, the lack of proper infrastructure and unchecked quarrying further exacerbate these vulnerabilities. Canaan's fragile situation is evident in its social and environmental challenges. The community struggles with limited access to clean water, schools, and hospitals, while its residents face dangerous working conditions in unregulated rock quarries.

 

 

Results and discussion

Canaan's residents face a challenging water situation. The absence of public authority creates an unregulated water market, potentially impacting water quality and affordability.  Most households (92%) rely on privately owned water points, with storage tanks dominating the market. While 93% of these points require payment, access and delivery difficulties lead to price variations across the settlement.

The high cost of water burdens many families, with some spending over 24% of their income on it. This is partly due to the lack of government involvement and the reliance on private suppliers.

Despite the existence of hand pumps and community-managed boreholes offering lower-cost options, storage tanks remain the major source. This fragmented system, while highlighting the community's resourcefulness, raises concerns about potential conflicts and quality control.

The study suggests that public water systems are crucial as Canaan grows, emphasizing the need for inclusive and sustainable solutions. Participatory approaches involving diverse stakeholders and focusing on affordability, quality, and technical object management are recommended.

 

Conclusion

Access to water is essential for human survival, dignity, and the exercise of other fundamental rights. The right to water evolved from its initial inclusion as a social right in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to explicit recognition as a fundamental right in 2010.This right implies equitable access to safe and healthy drinking water, free from discrimination. Understanding diverse governance models and their interactions is crucial for sustainable water management. Reconciling the hydro-social cycle (social and political aspects) with the hydrological reality (physical water resources) is essential for equitable access and long-term solutions.

Furthermore, the article explores the concept of equity in water access and its importance in addressing discriminatory practices. By analyzing Canaan's specific case, the summary aims to highlight the crucial role water plays in urban development and rehabilitation policies, particularly in precarious neighborhoods.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.29104/phi-aqualac/2021-v13-1-03