The European Commission has adopted a proposal urging member states to make drinking water fully accessible to all citizens. The member states have to take measures to promote good use of water,
encouraging, for example, the use of tap water in public buildings and
restaurants and placing public fountains in most cities. Figures suggest 20 million Europeans have no access to healthy drinking water, especially in countries with vulnerable and marginalised communities. In countries where water is managed privately, companies are allowed
to cut supply to people who do not pay their bills.