Regulating water supply and sanitation services

Water and sanitation regulation has evolved from basic public health ordinances in medieval cities to sophisticated frameworks governing service quality, pricing, environmental protection, and climate adaptation. The recognition of water and sanitation as human rights (2010) and the adoption of Sustainable Development Goal 6 (2015) have amplified the need for robust regulatory systems that ensure universal access to safe, reliable, and affordable services. This Thematic Overview Paper examines regulatory functions, models, costs, and future directions across diverse service delivery contexts—from large urban utilities to rural community management and selfsupply systems. It synthesises evidence from multiple countries and regulatory traditions to provide practical guidance for water and sanitation rofessionals.