Advocating for a Human Rights-Based Approach to the Ganges Water Sharing Treaty (GWST)

The arsenic contamination crisis in Bangladesh has emerged as one of the most pressing public health emergencies of our time, as labeled by the World Health Organization (WHO). With nearly half of the country’s tube wells tainted by arsenic, this crisis has resulted in widespread health complications such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Despite efforts by international intergovernmental organizations like United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to provide alternative water sources to Bangladesh, a substantial segment of the population—approximately 13 percent according to recent UNICEF surveys—continues to rely on contaminated water. This persistent reliance underscores the urgent need for comprehensive intervention strategies to mitigate health risks and safeguard the Bangladeshi population. In response, this article advocates for a human rights-based approach to addressing the arsenic contamination crisis in Bangladesh ,emphasizing empowerment and the recognition of human rights for affected individuals and groups. Collaborative efforts between the governments of India and Bangladesh, international intergovernmental organizations, and civil society actors are deemed essential to address the root causes of water contamination in the Ganges basin and prioritize the health and well-being of affected individuals and populations. Through sustainable and equitable solutions such as water treatment facilities and education campaigns, India and Bangladesh can mitigate the immediate impacts of this public health emergency and uphold the rights of all individuals and communities involved.