UN experts express outrage over water struggles in Guadeloupe

UN independent experts are raising concerns about chronic water cuts in the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, as well as tap water pollution, excessive prices, and attempts to silence critics. They have accused private operators, local authorities, and the French government of neglecting the island’s water system, leading to various malfunctions such as leaking pipes, defective treatment plants, and faulty billing software. The government of Guadeloupe has not commented on these accusations, but the experts are warning that residents’ human rights to clean water and sanitation are being threatened, especially for the most disadvantaged residents who face the highest water prices in the country.

The experts highlighted that more than 60 percent of drinking water in Guadeloupe is lost before reaching taps due to leaks, indicating that contaminants are entering the system. They called on France to take responsibility for ensuring contamination does not continue to spread and to provide compensation measures for the affected population. Of particular concern is the presence of a banned pesticide known as chlordecone, which was used on the island from 1973 to 1993 and continues to pollute the soil and water, causing cancer and other illnesses. The experts emphasized the need for action to address contamination and protect the health of residents.

Activists, scientists, and others who have spoken out about the water situation in Guadeloupe are facing censorship, according to the experts. They noted that officials banned a local water debate organized by the University of the West Indies, indicating a crackdown on open discussion about the issue. The experts described water as a sensitive subject that is difficult to discuss freely on the island, with several individuals speaking out against water system dysfunctions now facing threats to their safety. The lack of transparency and attempts to suppress criticism are exacerbating the water crisis in Guadeloupe.

While the French government has dismissed concerns about pollution in Guadeloupe, the UN experts have pointed to the evidence of leaks and outages as indications that contaminants are present in the water supply. The experts stressed the need for immediate action to address the water crisis in Guadeloupe, given the serious implications for residents’ health and well-being. They called on France to prioritize water quality and safety in the region and to implement measures to prevent further contamination and protect the rights of all residents to access clean water and sanitation.

In conclusion, the situation regarding water cuts, pollution, and high prices in Guadeloupe is alarming, according to UN independent experts. They have denounced the neglect of the water system by private operators, local authorities, and the French government, leading to serious malfunctions and threats to residents’ human rights. The presence of contaminants such as chlordecone further compounds the health risks faced by residents, highlighting the urgent need for action to address the water crisis on the island. The experts have called for transparency, accountability, and measures to ensure water quality and safety for all residents in Guadeloupe.