In every cántaro of water: Women's water access struggles in rural El Salvador

Abstract

Latin America is one of the richest regions in the world in rainfall and freshwater resources. Despite this, large populations in this region struggle to gain safe access to safe drinking water supply and sanitation services. The objectives of this research are not simply to show that more wells and better infrastructure are needed. Instead this study encompasses both the physical and emotional geographies of water to dig deep into the social relations to show whether gender intersects with inequalities in water access, and understand how this relationship may cause water insecurities and water distress. By examining local water access in rural El Salvador, my analysis concludes that in every cántaro of water are women’s personal water access struggles. Although some men help with the water collection and carrying labor in rural areas, it is women who as homemakers are more involved and affected by water insecurities.