The Cost of Water

Armenia:

The 'Cost of Water' documentary sheds light on Armenia's deepening water crisis, where an estimated 80% of water resources are lost annually. The film investigates the causes and impacts of this staggering depletion. It encompasses issues stemming from poor water resources management, non-transparent government practices, the challenges exacerbated by climate change, and the aftermath of the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war and Azerbaijan's intrusion into Armenian sovereign territories. These multifaceted factors reshaped Armenia's water security landscape, leaving many communities deprived of both drinking and irrigation water.

Georgia:

The multimedia project in Georgia examines the enduring ramifications of Russian aggression from 1990 to 2008 in Abkhazia and Tskhinvali, highlighting the prevalent challenge of water scarcity. Aliq Media Georgia's investigation reveals the persistent water shortages for drinking and irrigation in Kveshi and Kvemo Artsevi villages near the occupation lines. Following the conflicts, residents grappled with a lack of water access, prompting the creation of self-built wells. Despite limited access to data from state structures, the article adeptly highlights the profound impact of conflicts on environmental preservation and essential human needs.

Photo credit: Liza Torosyan. '​​Kveshi village, Gori, Georgia.'

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"The Cost of Water" documentary has been widely disseminated across Armenia by networks including Bun TV, 1in.am, A1+, Aliq Media, Tavush TV, Tsayg TV, Green Armenia, and Ecolur. Internationally, it's set to be featured by THE WHY, a Danish organization known for its global selection of documentaries that spotlight human rights and environmental issues. The film has also made its way into a local public school and has been used by several NGOs for educational purposes.

Additionally, The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) in Armenia wants to organize a screening event and Q&A session after the screening of the documentary. The Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Switzerland in Armenia, and equally the Deputy Regional Director of the Swiss Cooperation for the South Caucasus Mr. Werner Thut will participate in the event delivering opening remarks.