Report of the Special Rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation on his mission to Mongolia

Mongolia's access to water and sanitation faces challenges influenced by its extreme continental climate, traditional lifestyles, rapid urbanization, nomadic culture, and mining activities. The harsh winters, characterized by long, dry periods and temperatures dropping to minus 40°C, significantly impact the infrastructure, making water and sanitation services difficult to maintain, particularly in rural and ger areas. Gers, traditional Mongolian dwellings, lack in-built sanitation due to their design, forcing residents to rely on distant water sources and outdoor toilets. Urban migration exacerbates these issues, with the expanding ger districts in cities like Ulaanbaatar struggling to provide adequate services due to the rapid population increase. Despite the economic boost from mining, environmental concerns such as water pollution and overuse persist. While some progress has been made since the 1990s, a significant portion of the population still lacks access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation, falling short of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The government's ongoing efforts are crucial to address these challenges and improve the living conditions in Mongolia.