Sanitation is a basic human right and a basic necessity for healthy living irrespective of any cultural, social or economic background. Open defecation and poor hygiene practices pose serious health risks. These issues significantly affect public health mostly in low and middle-income countries.

Furthermore, open defecation continues to be a major concern in many rural areas and urban slums due to a lack of sanitation facilities and proper waste management infrastructure.

This is why World Toilet Day is observed on November 19 every year to create awareness about hygiene practices. The observance highlights the importance of providing universal sanitation services and improving hygiene practices.

The day acts as an occasion for global discussions on sanitation improvement, promoting actions and coordinated efforts at all levels towards this objective. Moreover, it encourages people to make efforts on their own for safe sanitation without solely relying on the government or other such bodies.

World Toilet Day History

Recognising the need for safe sanitation, a non-profit named World Toilet Organisation was founded by philanthropist Jack Sim in Singapore in 2001 and November 19 was declared World Toilet Day to increase public engagement and to create awareness about sanitation issues. Sustainable Sanitation Alliance also joined the movement in 2007.

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In 2010, the United Nations recognised access to safe water and sanitation as a part of human rights. When the UN added the day to its list of global observances, more countries started celebrating it.

World Toilet Day Significance

Sanitation, good hygiene practices, and clean toilets and water are emphasised as part of human rights. World Toilet Day has become an annual focal point for people around the globe to emphasise the paramount significance of sanitation.

The day raises discussions about the multiple diseases spreading due to poor hygiene and sanitation. Furthermore, it stimulates forward-looking efforts to ensure the universal provision of sanitation.

World Toilet Day 2023 Theme

The theme for the World Toilet Day 2023, “Accelerating Change for Safe Sanitation” reflects the ongoing effort to speed up the necessary changes that will result in safe sanitation practices at the global level.

Today, global observance invites everyone to contemplate upon his or her contribution to creating a future in which safe sanitation isn't considered a luxury but a necessity.