World Toilet Day is observed each year on November 19 to bring attention to the lack of adequate sanitation for billions around the globe. This year's theme, set by the United Nations, is "Toilets: A Place for Peace," emphasizing the importance of having safe and secure toilet facilities for everyone.
Despite progress, about 3.5 billion people around the world still lack properly managed sanitation systems, with 419 million individuals resorting to open defecation, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). This dire situation continues to highlight the global sanitation crisis, affecting public health and the environment.
Globally, nearly 1,000 children die daily from diarrhea linked to poor sanitation and contaminated water sources. The consequences are dire, as safe sanitation and hygiene practices can prevent more than 300,000 child fatalities annually. The UN aims for "safe toilets for all by 2030," as part of its Sustainable Development Goals.
World Toilet Day serves not just as recognition of this issue but as encouragement for advocacy and education surrounding sanitation practices. Without functional toilet systems, untreated waste can lead to diseases such as cholera, which can ravage communities, particularly those already vulnerable due to conflict, extreme weather events, or natural disasters.
Among organizations taking active measures to raise awareness, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is stepping up its efforts by hosting activities like toilet paper races and innovative exhibitions. Families and community members can engage in these activities to learn about sanitation practices, taste tests for water quality, and even involvement in humorous competitions geared toward flushing away stigma and ignorance.
Events will include fun and educational activities such as toilet-themed competitions and demonstrations of innovative sanitation solutions, underlining the seriousness of sanitation issues wrapped up in enjoyable experiences. The exhibition titled “A Better Way to Go: Toilets and the Future of Sanitation” will showcase various technological advancements and solutions aimed at improving toilet access and functionality, contributing toward greater sanitation goals.
Accessibility to toilet facilities remains another pivotal issue highlighted this year. The needs of those with disabilities or medical conditions are often overlooked, which can lead to significant challenges and delays. For example, in Mansfield, UK, hundreds of individuals have had to reapply for access to Changing Places toilets due to unclear medical criteria set by the local council. Many potential users were left frustrated by the requirement to go through the application process again after already waiting several months.
Felicity Benyon, who has faced difficulties accessing toilets due to her medical condition, described the situation as "a farce," emphasizing the additional stress placed on individuals needing immediate access when nature calls. Despite the obstacles, Mansfield Council indicated they would prioritize past applicants as they rolled out new criteria. Nevertheless, many users still feel anxious about relying on alternative arrangements, especially when immediate access is required.
The installation of additional fully accessible facilities across communities, such as the Sandringham Estate, offers hope for those who struggle with conventional restroom access. This site recently added enhanced Changing Places toilets equipped for users with significant disabilities, ensuring dignity and accessibility when users require it the most.
Through initiatives and open dialogues, World Toilet Day sheds light on sanitation's significance, advocating for changes and inspiring communal actions to rectify these disparities. This global observance, rich with its themes of peace and dignity, encourages everyone, from individuals to governments, to venture forth and contribute to making clean and safe toilets universally available.
The observance of World Toilet Day reminds us all – safe, accessible sanitation is foundational to human dignity, health, and peace.
