The author believes that what is needed to improve water supply and sanitation conditions in throughout the world is political will more than money. The International Water Supply and Sanitation Decade, from 1981 to 1990, had as its goal safe water and sanitation facilities for all people. In fact, ground was lost during that decade. The author discusses problems of growing populations, urbanization, difficulties obtaining funds, and political problems. Means of acquiring additional funds for water supply and sanitation include charging users for water, restructuring national budgets, and attracting private funds and encouraging private initiatives. On the other hand, cost savings can be realized through the use of low-cost technologies, increased efficiency and coordination (for example, to reduce duplication of efforts), and "capacity building"--strengthening national institutions to deal with sustainable water resources development and developing human resources that are conducive to performance.