Unleash the power of public finance!

Universal water and sanitation coverage will require governments to invest more money, and to invest it more effectively. But how can this be achieved? This website will help you find answers. 

Check out our Q&A and Resources.

What exactly is public finance?

Domestic public finance is essentially money derived from domestic taxes, raised nationally or locally. A core principle is that funds should be raised and spent in a manner that is both cost-effective and equitable.

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Why is WASH a good investment?

People with good water, sanitation and hygiene are both healthier and wealthier. Investing in WASH makes sense: for example, the economic return on sanitation investment is on average $5 for every $1 spent.

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Does public finance inhibit markets?

No! Public finance and market-based finance are two pieces of the same puzzle! Both public finance and market-based solutions are essential. Spent well, public finance creates and stimulates markets.

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We need to mobilise more public money and we need to spend it better.
Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD) Consortium

It's not just us!

Diverse organisations and initiatives are doing very important work around public financing for water and sanitation, including Sanitation and Water for All (SWA) and the UN-Water GLAAS initiative. We particularly recommend the WASHwatch website, which has very detailed data on country progress towards public finance commitments. More information on other organisations working to support public finance can be found here.