Tajikistan hosts global water summit as climate pressures grow

Tajikistan is hosting the Fourth International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development” from 25 to 28 May in Dushanbe, bringing together thousands of participants from governments, international organisations and financial institutions.

The event highlights Tajikistan’s growing role in global climate and water diplomacy, with the country positioning glacier preservation, water security and climate risks at the centre of its international agenda. More than 2,500 participants from 31 countries, alongside representatives from 33 international organisations and financial institutions, are expected to attend.

Water as a diplomatic tool

President Emomali Rahmon opened the diplomatic week by meeting senior United Nations officials, including UN Under-Secretary-General and ESCAP Executive Secretary Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, UN Special Envoy on Water Retno Marsudi, and United Nations University Rector Tshilidzi Marwala.

The meetings reinforced the importance of the “Dushanbe Water Process” - a platform Tajikistan has used for years to keep water and climate issues on the international agenda. According to the Tajik presidential press service, 14 UN resolutions on water resources have already been adopted at Tajikistan’s initiative.

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Climate risks and glacier melting

The conference comes amid growing international concern over glacier retreat and water shortages caused by climate change.

Tajikistan’s glaciers and rivers are vital sources of water for Central Asia, supporting agriculture, hydropower and drinking water supplies across the region. Officials and experts warn that melting glaciers and changing river flows threaten energy security, food production and regional stability.

Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan hold much of the region’s mountain water sources, while downstream countries including Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan depend heavily on stable water flows.

Looking ahead to the 2026

The Dushanbe conference is expected to serve as a preparatory stage ahead of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference in Abu Dhabi, co-hosted by the United Arab Emirates and Senegal.

Tajik officials say the current process is also intended to strengthen international cooperation before the conclusion of the UN Water Action Decade in 2028.

Experts note, however, that long-term challenges remain unresolved, including ageing irrigation systems, unequal water distribution and seasonal disputes over water use in Central Asia.

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