Participation in the realization of the human rights to water and sanitation 2014, para. 78
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Meaningful participation must be ensured in any situation where people's access to water or sanitation is (potentially) affected by a project. Mining, for instance, can have serious consequences on both water quantity and quality that can extend across generations (see, for example, A/HRC/24/41, para. 15). Such situations are often marked by an atmosphere of mistrust and power imbalances. Environmental and social impact assessments are needed not only to assess the impact of a project, including on human rights, but are also invaluable for the community to gain clarity. Ideally, impact assessments should be undertaken collaboratively with the community. At a minimum, there must be full disclosure of the findings.
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Non-negotiated soft law
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Special Rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation