Abstract

The United Nations introduced a series of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015. These SDGs are comprehensive, focusing on three main categories: social, environmental, and economic objectives. While addressing various socioeconomic and environmental challenges, a significant aspect of the SDGs is the issue of water scarcity. Goals such as clean water and sanitation, as well as life below water, highlight the United Nations’ commitment to ensuring adequate water supply and safeguarding the oceans, seas, and marine resources. Although water scarcity is primarily viewed as an environmental issue, an increasing amount of research emphasises the socioeconomic aspects of water scarcity. Water scarcity is a phenomenon that is both real and socially constructed. It impacts livelihoods, agricultural output, public health, and overall human development, especially in developing nations. Thus, it is crucial to understand the functioning of the water system and the economic frameworks that govern water usage. Therefore, this paper aims to review the existing research on the relationship between water scarcity and its impacts on the socioeconomic well-being of individuals. The findings indicate that water serves multiple functions at both household and community levels, emphasising its vital role in facilitating various livelihood activities. From an economic perspective, the restricted availability of water resources influences agricultural productivity, food security, and household income. On a social level, water scarcity is linked to issues of inequality, migration, and health and educational challenges. Consequently, from the standpoint of sustainable livelihoods, securing access to water is essential for maintaining stability in overall livelihoods.

Keywords: Water Scarcity, Water Security, SDGs, Water Poverty Index, Human Development