2008 is the International Year of Sanitation (IYS 2008). It is a unique opportunity for speeding up the progress towards the sanitation target within the 7th goal of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). To make the year a success, the German Toilet Organization (GTO) is contributing a worldwide campaign for awareness raising, advocacy and sanitation marketing.

Many are sceptical if such years can make a difference – we are convinced that innovative communication of the topic over the length of one year can help to bring the topic to the forefront!

On the 15th of June 2008 the "sanitation is dignity" exhibition visited the disposal facilities of the city of Konstanz (EBK). Visitors were welcome to participate in the "day of the open door" celebrations. Anyone was invited to learn about the local disposal facilities and the importance of sanitation all around the world. Uschi Eid, in der function as vice-chair of the United Nations Secretary Advisory Board on Water and Sanitation, spoke at the festivities. Activities for children and families were provided.

On the 21st of November 2007, the UN launched the "International Year of

Santation" at UN-Headquarters in New York. GTO had the honour of presenting
some of their campaign materials for 2008 at the event.

See the UNICEF-video to get an impression.
© UNICEF