U.N. independent experts have raised concerns about chronic water cuts in Guadeloupe, a French Caribbean island. They have criticized the neglect of the island’s water system by private operators, local authorities, and the French government, resulting in outdated infrastructure, leaking pipes, faulty treatment plants, and high water prices. Activists, scientists, and others speaking out about the situation are being censored, with officials even banning a local water debate organized by the University of the West Indies. The experts warned that residents’ human rights to clean water and sanitation are at risk, especially for the most disadvantaged due to the island’s high water prices.
The experts highlighted that over 60% of drinking water in Guadeloupe is lost before reaching taps due to leaks, raising concerns about contamination entering the water system. They called on the French government to address the issue and ensure that pollution does not spread further. The presence of a banned pesticide known as chlordecone, used on the island between 1973 and 1993, continues to pollute Guadeloupe’s soil and water, causing health problems such as cancer. The experts emphasized the need for compensation measures for the affected population and urged France to take responsibility for addressing and preventing contamination in Guadeloupe.
The government of Guadeloupe has not yet responded to the concerns raised by the U.N. experts regarding the water crisis on the island. The experts highlighted the seriousness of the situation and the challenges faced by residents in accessing clean water and sanitation, particularly due to the high water prices in Guadeloupe. They criticized the lack of action by private operators, local authorities, and the French government in maintaining and upgrading the water system, which has led to the ongoing issues with water quality and access on the island. The experts also noted the attempts to silence critics and restrict discussions on the water crisis, further undermining efforts to address the problem.
The U.N. experts called for immediate action to address the water crisis in Guadeloupe and ensure that residents have access to clean and safe drinking water. They emphasized the need for accountability from private operators, local authorities, and the French government in addressing the deficiencies in the water system and preventing further contamination. The experts also highlighted the impact of the water crisis on the most vulnerable populations in Guadeloupe and urged for measures to protect their human rights to clean water and sanitation. They emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and public participation in addressing the water crisis and ensuring the well-being of all residents on the island.
