Water bankruptcy is unfolding worldwide, UN scientists report

UN University scientists say the world has entered 'water bankruptcy,' with about 4 billion people facing severe water scarcity for at least one month each year.

UN University scientists released a report on Jan. 20, 2026, saying the world has entered an era of "water bankruptcy." The term describes places using more freshwater than nature can reliably replace, and when damage to aquifers, wetlands and other natural storage becomes hard to reverse. The report's lead author, Kaveh Madani, states many natural water systems are no longer able to return to historical conditions. Observed impacts include recurring shortages, shrinking reservoirs and land subsidence in some cities. Key findings: - About 4 billion people experience severe water scarcity for at least one month per year, according to the UN study. - Groundwater extraction and loss of wetlands have contributed to widespread, often irreversible damage across millions of square miles, including urban land subsidence. - Agriculture accounts for roughly 70% of global freshwater withdrawals, and large shares of food production are concentrated in areas with declining or unstable water storage. - The report calls for recognizing "water bankruptcy" in policy discussions and for a global monitoring framework; preparatory meetings in Dakar are scheduled ahead of the 2026 UN Water Conference. Summary: The report describes a persistent, systemic shortfall in freshwater that affects billions and poses risks to food systems, cities and economies. It links irreversible basin-level damage to human water use, pollution and climate change. The authors recommend elevating the concept of "water bankruptcy" in policy debates and developing international monitoring, with preparatory meetings in Dakar leading toward the 2026 UN Water Conference.