Determinants in implementing a public policy for an essential volume of free water in Bogotá and Medellín, Colombia.

Laura Vargas,Léo Heller

doi:10.1590/1413-81232015213.26992015

Laura Vargas, Léo Heller

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1590/1413-81232015213.26992015

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Abstract

Within the framework for the realization of the human right to water and sanitation, States have the obligation to implement programs and public policies that satisfy the basic needs of their population, especially its most vulnerable demographics. In Colombia, this challenge has been addressed through policies that provide a determined essential amount of free water to people whose access to water and sanitation services are limited due to low income. Through a review of legal and technical documents as well as relevant literature, this article presents an analysis of the particular determinants involved in implementing this program in Bogotá and Medellín, as well as some related concerns. Among such factors, we discuss the evolution and changes of the tariff model used in service provision, estimates of basic consumption, the role of social movements and collective action, and user disconnection due to non-payment. The main particularities and differences of each case highlighted the inconveniences related to the method of identifying eligible users and applying assistance to beneficiary user groups, and the need for national guidelines in implementing this policy.

Highlights

Improving access to water and sanitation has strong short-term and long-term positive effects on a country’s economic growth and on the portions of its population in conditions of poverty
The United Nations (UN) General Assembly officially recognised the human right to water and sanitation in 2010 in Resolution 64/292
In the light of this context, an initiative grew from some local governments to consider providing a minimum essential amount of free water to families in conditions of poverty, in respect of the framework for the human right to water and sanitation

Summary

Introduction

Improving access to water and sanitation has strong short-term and long-term positive effects on a country’s economic growth and on the portions of its population in conditions of poverty. A substantial modification was proposed concerning the main proposal, whose purpose, among others, was to annul the enshrinement of the human right to water in the Constitution, the definition of water as a common and public good, the provision of a minimum essential amount of free water only to the poor, and the demand that water supply and sanitation services be provided directly and without delegation by the State or organised communities[22].

Results

Conclusion