Access to Clean Water by Country: Global Comparison 2024

Access to clean water is a fundamental human right and a critical measure of a country’s development and public health. Globally, 91% of the world’s population uses at least basic drinking water services, reflecting substantial progress in recent decades. However, disparities persist, with millions still lacking access to safe and clean drinking water, especially in low-income countries and remote regions.

Clean water access directly impacts health outcomes, economic productivity, and quality of life. Countries with robust infrastructure, strong governance, and efficient resource management systems often achieve universal access to clean water. This article highlights nations that have attained 100% access to clean drinking water, examines global trends, and explores challenges faced by less-developed regions.

Countries with 100% Access to Clean Drinking Water

1. Greece: 100%
2. Hong Kong: 100%
3. Singapore: 100%
4. New Zealand: 100%
5. Kuwait: 100%
6. Malta: 100%
7. Iceland: 100%
8. Liechtenstein: 100%
9. Gibraltar: 100%
10. Monaco: 100%
11. San Marino: 100%
12. Saint Barthelemy: 100%

Countries with 100% access to clean drinking water share several common traits, including advanced water treatment facilities, strong regulatory frameworks, and significant investments in public infrastructure. Nations like Singapore and Hong Kong excel due to cutting-edge technologies like water reclamation and desalination. Smaller countries like Monaco and Liechtenstein benefit from compact geographic sizes and robust governance. Islands like Malta and Iceland rely on sustainable resource management to achieve universal access. These countries demonstrate that with strategic planning, even resource-constrained regions can ensure clean water for all.

Full Table (Source: Macrotrends 2022)

Inequalities in Water Access

Despite global progress, about 9% of the world’s population lacks access to basic drinking water services. Sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South Asia face significant challenges due to limited infrastructure, water scarcity, and economic barriers. Efforts by international organizations and governments aim to close this gap, but achieving universal access by 2030 (as per the UN Sustainable Development Goals) requires accelerated investment and innovation.

Innovations in Water Management

Countries with limited natural water resources have adopted groundbreaking strategies to ensure access:

• Desalination: Widely used in Kuwait and Singapore to convert seawater into potable water.
• Rainwater Harvesting: Common in water-scarce areas for augmenting supplies.
• Smart Water Monitoring: Ensures efficient usage and minimizes losses due to leaks or theft.

Access to clean water remains a cornerstone of sustainable development and public health. While countries with 100% access serve as role models, the global community must work together to address challenges in regions where water access remains a privilege rather than a right. By fostering innovation and equitable policies, universal clean water access can become a reality for everyone.

Sources

• Access to Clean Water by Country 2024 – World Population Review
• Clean Water Access by Country – Macro Trends