From Challenges to Cooperation: WRHM2SCA at the Heart of Small River Sustainability in Central Asia

June 16, 2025, the International Water Management Institute (IWMI-CA) organized an International Conference that brought together regional and international experts to address pressing challenges in water resources management across Central Asia. The event focused on sustainable practices, transboundary cooperation, and innovative technologies, with a special emphasis on small rivers and sub-basin level solutions.

Participants discussed the impacts of climate change, increasing water demand, and ecosystem pressures, highlighting the importance of rational water use for food security, energy production, and economic stability.

The event provided a platform for experience sharing, identifying barriers, and exploring collaborative strategies among scientific, governmental, and private stakeholders.

Key projects presented included:

• Hydro4U: Demonstrated EU-funded small hydropower technologies in Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, promoting ecological and economic sustainability.

• Global Partnership for Sustainable Cooperation on Shared Waters: Advanced intergovernmental mechanisms for transboundary water coordination, led by IWMI, IUCN, and OSU.

• WE-ACT: Developed a climate-sensitive decision support system for optimizing water allocation in the Syr Darya basin.

• ISTC Project: Enhanced water management in Surkhandarya tributaries through GIS, remote sensing, early warning systems, and youth training.

During his speech, Dr. Philippe Geffroy once again emphasized the continued need for regional cooperation and innovation to ensure resilient and equitable water resource management throughout Central Asia. His remarks reinforced the even's core message about fostering collaboration and embracing innovative solutions to address the region’s water challenges effectively.