This webinar is organised as part of the IWA’s Water Policy and Regulation agenda in collaboration with the Vietnam Water Supply and Sewerage Association (VWSA).

Given the rising urban populations and the growing demand for safe drinking water and effective wastewater management and treatment, it is essential to establish robust water and wastewater policies, laws, and regulations, and ensure compliance. This involves adopting sustainable water management practices, investing in water infrastructure, promoting water conservation measures, ensuring universal access to safe drinking water, establishing functional sanitation infrastructure, and implementing sound sewage management practices.

In Vietnam, the urban population represents 41.7% of the total population of 98 million people. The annual rate of urbanisation is 1.2%, and as of 2019, an estimated 27% of the urban population resided in substandard housing. Ho Chi Minh City, with 9.1 million inhabitants, stands as Vietnam’s largest city, followed by Hanoi with 8.3 million as of 2021.

The increasing demand for water in urban areas necessitates efficient and effective management of water and wastewater resources, which are further strained by climate change. The formulation and implementation of the proposed Water Supply and Sanitation Law in Vietnam can play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable and equitable management of water resources, safeguarding public health and the environment. Laws such as this provide guidance for planning, constructing, and operating water supply and sewage systems while setting standards for infrastructure development, water quality, and environmental protection.

An effective water and sanitation legal framework also facilitates investments in water infrastructure and promotes water conservation measures. Furthermore, these laws foster research and development efforts, supporting the exploration of more sustainable solutions for water supply and sewage management.

Prioritising the protection and preservation of water resources through the adoption of a Water Supply and Sanitation Law helps create resilient and sustainable urban communities capable of withstanding the challenges posed by climate change.

The webinar aims to offer insights, best practices, and experiences related to the formulation, application, and compliance monitoring of water supply and sanitation laws in Southeast Asia and beyond. These experiences will showcase the critical role played by water supply and sanitation laws in safeguarding the health and safety of communities by ensuring the safe, efficient, and effective management and operation of water supply and sewage systems. However, keeping up with the ever-changing context in which these laws function can be challenging. This webinar will convene experts and professionals from the field of water supply and sewage management to share their experiences, insights, and best practices in navigating and preparing for water supply and sanitation laws.