Water is at the core of development, yet some individuals and groups remain excluded from its benefits. Women, youth, indigenous groups, persons with disabilities, and others are still underrepresented among those who provide or receive services, make decisions, and control water resources. The World Bank's objective is to ensure that water benefits are equitably and sustainably accessible to all. This requires the removal of structural barriers that prevent access to water resources and services, and that limit participation in water institutions and processes. It means ensuring that excluded groups have a voice in water planning and distribution.