The project supports Moldovan and Ukrainian authorities in delivering a water supply and sanitation, and it ensures readiness and cooperation in the event of crises.
The war against Ukraine has severely weakened its water supply and wastewater management systems. In the upper Dniester basin in particular, demand has increased due to the large number of displaced people and the relocation of industries. Yet the Dniester River is polluted due to the impairment of wastewater treatment and the development of dangerous leaks. Air strikes and power cuts cause further disruption to the sewerage system.
Ukraine and Moldova both face major challenges as their municipalities are overstretched and resources are limited. There is a lack of cross-border expertise to ensure the continuous operation of water services. At the same time, it is important for them to promote regional cooperation and improve the capacity of water and sanitation management to cope with the current and future crises.
The project concentrates on three priority areas:
1. It provides authorities and municipalities with basic information, qualified personnel and ready-made measures to ensure a functioning water supply and wastewater disposal in crisis situations.
2. It develops and implements gender-equitable measures that sensitise civil society to drinking water crises.
3. It promotes cross-border exchanges between the relevant institutions about crisis prevention, including climate-related impacts.