The Human Right to Water in Ethiopia: The Case of Badusa Betela Community
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Date
2014-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This study examines the Human Right to Water (HRW) in Badusa Betela community. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative approach to examine the level of realization of HRW, the corresponding state duties, challenges and prospects of the HRW and the impact of the HRW on some selected socio-economic and civil rights. Both primary and secondary data which are collected through semi-structured interview, focus group discussion, key informant interview, household survey, document review, case study and direct field observations were utilized.
The study reveals that the core minimum requirements of the three normative contents of the HRW (i.e availability, accessibility and quality) which the state parties are required to achieve immediately are below the standard in the study area. This is because the measures taken by the government in collaboration with civil society have not been successful.
The study also reveals that the state as well as non-state actors is involved in the realization of the HRW in the community but the measures taken have not been successful. As a result the HRW for this community become a dream. Lack of water has negative impact on the right to food, work, education, freedom of religion and rights of women and children.
There are also measures that are undertaken and planed to be implemented for the realization of HRW. Challenges for the realization out weight its prospects. Therefore, the state should cooperate with civil society and implement a sustainable project on water services and facilities to achieve the core minimum obligation as soon as possible. It should enhance the level of HRW in this community by reducing the challenges and increasing the prospects.
The study also reveals that Water, Mineral and Energy Bureau at Woreda level has budget and skilled human power deficiency. Therefore, government and other stakeholders should reconsider budget allocation and supply of technical support to ensure sustainable water supply and facilities for the community. This will result in multi-dimensional improvement in human rights of individuals in the community.
Key Words: Human Right to Water, Core Minimum obligation, availability, accessibility, quality and Bedusa Betela Community.
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Keywords
Human Right to Water, Core Minimum obligation, availability, accessibility, quality and Bedusa Betela Community