‘WaSH Futurism’: exploring post-SDG6 targets using the Nominal Group Technique for more equitable global agenda setting

Abstract

Abstract Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6) is grounded in human rights and derives from international policies refined over decades. We argue that much of this agenda setting and monitoring reflects or gives way to neo-colonialism and neo-liberalism. We implement an online version of the Nominal Group Technique to explore its efficacy for more equitable global agenda setting. We apply the technique to a group of 19 graduate WaSH students – from diverse professional backgrounds and originating from and having worked in all global regions – to gain their insights on future WaSH issues to be included in global targets. This was preceded by preparatory exercises on WaSH progress and influential contextual factors. We thus demonstrate a novel and systematic application of the NGT and discuss its potential to be used in challenging neo-colonial and neo-liberal agenda setting. The results also provide an early assessment of future priorities that could inform post-SDG target setting including: inclusivity among populations and settings, hygiene, menstrual health, sustainability, circular economy, climate resilience, preventing infectious disease transmission, and universal ‘safely managed services’. These are compared with themes highlighted in Joint Monitoring Programme reports, SDG6 indicators and General Comment 15: The Human Right to Water.