The team of PILP is looking for students who are interested in doing research regards to children’s right to water in the Netherlands.
Water is a basic necessity and a right of humans. Yet in 2013, the access to water of more than 8000 homes and businesses was denied due to the inability of meeting payment deadlines. This includes 500 to 750 families. How does the policy regarding the actions of denying access to water due to non-payment relate to clean drinking water, especially that of children who enjoy more protection because of their vulnerable position?
That’s what PILP now wants to investigate with the help of law students. The research question is: To what extent is the Dutch policy with regard to cutting off water of households with children in accordance with human rights?
With this study, students will research the Dutch legislation and jurisprudence with respect to the Dutch policy in regards to cutting off water. Also, the study of international law and jurisprudence will take place with respect to the right to water and, more specific, the right of children to water. The research should be concluded with an analysis of the compliance of the Dutch policy with the human rights-standards.
Who are we looking for?
This research task is specifically intended for law students. Those who have recently graduated can also apply. The research will take around 200 hours and has to result in a report (for an example of such a report, click HERE [Dutch]). The student researchers will be guided by the PILP. We offer no financial compensation. However, the final research report will be published on our website and may possibly be used in a human rights legal procedure.
What will you gain from it?
Students involved in this research task will not only gain valuable experience and knowledge, but will receive a year’s subscription to the Dutch Journal for Human Rights of the NJCM. The completed research will be published on the website of the PILP and may be used in legal proceedings and / or to influence policy. Unfortunately there is no financial compensation.
Interested?
In case you are interested, please send an email with your CV and letter of motivation to Zahra Malikzada to [email protected]. The deadline is Sunday April 26, 2015. For more information you can also call 071 527 6297.
You can find the case file ‘Right to water’ HERE.