UN Resident Coordinator Addresses Global Water Crisis at Atılım University

More than 100 students, faculty members, and academicians gathered at Atılım University to hear Dr. Babatunde Ahonsi, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Türkiye, give a speech on the global water crisis titled "The Global Water Crisis: United Nations Programmes and Initiatives for Sustainable Solutions.” The event organized by Prof. Hasan Umur Akay, Chair of Automotive Engineering Department highlighted the urgent need for international cooperation and sustainable solutions to address the growing water challenges affecting billions of people around the world.

Professor Akay in his opening remarks said that Atılım University selected “water” as the theme for 2024-2025 academic year. Within the scope of the “Water” theme the university has been organizing events. He emphasized the benefits of equal and sustainable use of water resources. 

Dr. Ahonsi began his speech by commending the university community for their commitment to discussing such a critical issue. “It is a great honor to be here at this distinguished university, and especially to be in the presence of such bright young minds—the future leaders of our world. You are not just the leaders of tomorrow—you are the changemakers of today,” he said.

Throughout his address, Dr. Ahonsi emphasized the essential role that water plays in every aspect of life, from health and food security to economic growth and peace. He shared striking global statistics, noting that 2.2 billion people still lack safely managed drinking water, and 1.42 billion people, including 450 million children, live in areas of high or extreme water vulnerability. He warned that, “The world is facing a growing water crisis that threatens not just development, but peace itself.”

Referring to the United Nations Water Convention, Dr. Ahonsi highlighted the urgent need for cross-border cooperation on water management. “Dwindling water supplies can heighten competition, fueling tensions and even conflict between communities and countries. Secretary-General António Guterres is urging all countries to join the UN Water Convention, which promotes sustainable management of shared water resources.”

Dr. Ahonsi urged the audience to recognize the link between water security and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 on clean water and sanitation, stating, “Without a concerted focus on water, we cannot hope to achieve the SDGs by 2030.”

The event was a call to action for the students and faculty in attendance. Dr. Ahonsi concluded his speech with a powerful message about the importance of managing water resources to ensure a sustainable future. “As we look to the future, we must recognize that all our hopes for sustainable development, peace, and prosperity depend on how we manage water. We need a new global water information system, smarter policies, and stronger cooperation.”

79th Anniversary of the UN

In addition to addressing the global water crisis, Dr. Ahonsi reflected on the broader mission of the United Nations as it approaches its 79th anniversary. He emphasized the enduring relevance of the UN Charter, which continues to guide global efforts toward peace, justice, and equality. “At its core, the Charter embodies a spirit of resolve: to bridge divides, restore relationships, and foster peace; to create opportunities for all and ensure no one is left behind,” he noted, underscoring the UN’s commitment to addressing contemporary challenges such as climate change and artificial intelligence.

Dr. Ahonsi concluded by highlighting the Pact for the Future, Global Digital Compact, and Declaration on Future Generations — three landmark initiatives aimed at fostering a more equitable and sustainable world. “As we celebrate the UN’s 79th anniversary, these documents symbolize our collective hope for a better future. They represent new opportunities to advance the Sustainable Development Goals, accelerate climate action, and ensure technology serves the common good,” he said. 

Atılım University, in collaboration with the TEMA Foundation, planted a tree in honor of Dr. Babatunde A. Ahonsi. Prof. Akay had the privilege of presenting Dr. Ahonsi with a certificate commemorating this thoughtful gesture, symbolizing a shared commitment to environmental sustainability and future generations.

Dr. Ahonsi’s full speech at Atılım University is at this link.