Adapted versions of conference background papers nos. 3 Effectiveness, by Colin Glennie; 4 Finance by J. Majumdar; 5 Collaboration by Hafiz Pasha; and 6 Synthesis by John M. Kalbermatten. - Includes an appendix with Political Statement and A Programme. - Includes Lists of persons and institutions associated with the Noordwijk Conference. - Summaries in English, French and Spanish Drawing on four papers presented at the Ministerial Conference on Drinking Water and Environmental Sanitation, this booklet outlines the four key areas of the Conference's Action Programme to encourage governments to implement the changes ne alleviate water and sanitation sector problems. The first paper advocates that governments mobilize new partnerships for change, and provide support through legislation and leadership. The paper stresses behavioural change and improved commu enable community management to work. The second paper calls for an integrated approach to water resources planning and development. It discusses the need for a comprehensive policy framework to deal with the assessment and allocation of reso pricing policies, and conservation and protection. The third paper advocates moving away from the centralized approach to water and sanitation and outlines new roles for the community (with different roles for men and women), governments, wa utilities, the private sector, NGOs, and professional associations. It outlines central government's role in encouraging greater collaboration among these participants and providing education systems, and information management systems. The paper stresses that full cost recovery through user charges is the long-term objective, and that the "polluter pays" principle should apply to waste disposal. Since new sources of capital are needed, governments should develop new and innova financing mechanisms for water supply and sanitation. The booklet ends with a section on Water and the World which promotes the vital role of international, bilateral and regional organizations in helping political leaders take action at the level.