Cambridge 20 - Test 1

Question

Access to clean water is a basic human right. Therefore every home should have a water supply that is provided free of charge. Do you agree or disagree?

Answer

Access to clean water is often described as a fundamental human right. While I agree that everyone should have reliable access to it, I disagree with the view that water should be provided completely free of charge.

On the one hand, making water free would undoubtedly benefit disadvantaged communities, particularly in developing countries where access is limited. Clean water is essential for drinking, cooking, sanitation, and healthcare, and without it, people’s basic needs are undermined. For example, public fountains in European cities provide drinking water for residents and tourists alike, ensuring inclusivity regardless of income. Nevertheless, extending this principle to every household may create unsustainable financial pressure on governments. Supplying clean water requires significant investment in infrastructure, purification, and maintenance, and if no payment is collected, states may struggle to sustain these systems.

On the other hand, a reasonable pricing system ensures both quality and accountability. When households pay for water, governments are incentivised to maintain treatment plants, expand supply networks, and prevent contamination. For instance, in Vietnam, water is billed monthly at an affordable rate, and this revenue supports continued investment in the system. Importantly, charging for water does not necessarily burden citizens, as fees are usually minor compared to overall living expenses. In fact, a small charge can also discourage wasteful consumption, which is particularly crucial in countries facing droughts or declining freshwater resources.

In conclusion, while free water provision sounds appealing in principle, I believe that charging a modest fee is both necessary and beneficial. Not only does it help maintain the infrastructure that guarantees safe supply, but it also encourages responsible use and secures long-term sustainability.