Water Governance and Regional Cooperation in Central Asia
Abstract
Water scarcity and competing usage demands represent one of Central Asia's most pressing regional challenges. This report analyzes existing institutional mechanisms, identifies gaps in cooperation and proposes evidence-based approaches to dialogue.
Central Asia's rivers originate in mountainous regions and flow through multiple countries, creating complex governance challenges. Historical agreements and Soviet-era infrastructure continue to shape contemporary water politics.
The report finds that while technical cooperation has progressed in some areas, political trust deficits remain a significant barrier to comprehensive regional agreements. Academic research and track-two diplomacy offer promising complementary pathways.
Key Points
- Transboundary water issues require both technical and political solutions.
- Track-two diplomacy can complement official negotiations.
References
- Rahimov, F. (2025). Water Politics in Post-Soviet Central Asia. Cambridge University Press.
About the Author
Dr. Fa…ov
Research Director
Dr. Rahimov examines water governance, regional trade corridors and the evolution of civil society across Central Asian republics. He coordinates multi-country field research programs.
