On Saturday 19 November, they should be numerous on the starting line of theUrgent run Paris. In the myriad of Parisian races, this sporting event stands out for its solidarity and health aspect. This race seeks to sound the alarm bells on the precarious health in the world, on the occasion of the World Toilet Day. The event may give rise to a smile, yet the reality turns out to be less funny.
In 2016, relieving a pressing desire remains a luxury in some countries that do not offer satisfactory access to the toilet. A few figures illustrate the scale of the problem: 1 in 3 people do not have access to the toilet in the world, or 2.5 billion people.
In Europe alone, 20 million people are directly affected by the lack of toilets.
The rich countries are not aware of the problem yet these inequalitiesaccess to these hygiene infrastructures cost thousands of lives. It is estimated that 1000 children under 5 die every day from diarrheal diseases due to lack of toilet. Not to mention the problem of unclean water: 1.8 billion people consume water contaminated with faeces.
A modest participation to put an end to the sanitary “injustices”
Women, who are already suffering from lack of access to hygienic protection, sometimes suffer a double penalty. Faced with the lack of sanitation, they are more exposed than others to situations of humiliation, harassment or attacks.
Participating in The Urgent run is one way to shower these inequalities. Concretely, the 10 euros of the race will be donated to the World Toilet Organization association, in order to finance sanitation projects around the world.
If you too want to be in the starting blocks to move the lines, you can register on the solidarity race website and choose your course, 5 or 8 km. www.urgentrunparis.fr
For non-Parisians, the event, in partnership with the Porcher brand, can be supported and followed on social networks. #urgentrunparis
Read also: 77% of French people find that public toilets are dirty
7 in 10 French people avoid going to the toilet at a restaurant
