Water resources have become one of the most strategic elements of international relations in the 21st century. Climate change, industrialization, population growth, and the expansion of agricultural production are transforming the management of transboundary water reserves particularly in regions experiencing water scarcity a critical issue in terms of national security, environmental sustainability, and regional stability. In the international relations literature, water security is increasingly regarded as one of the key components of the concept of environmental security, which extends beyond the traditional understanding of security. In particular, the management of transboundary groundwater constitutes a complex area of governance that balances states’ sovereign rights with the sustainable use of shared natural resources. For this reason, it is of great importance for international organizations to develop mechanisms for technical knowledge sharing, joint data production, and institutional coordination.
Central Asia is among the regions that have faced significant challenges in managing shared water resources due to the new political borders that emerged after the collapse of the Soviet Union. In this context, not only surface waters but also transboundary groundwater reserves have become one of the core agenda items of cooperation among countries.
The talks held between Uzbekistan and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) on 30 June 2026 reveal that joint initiatives aimed at protecting the shared groundwater resource between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are gaining momentum. This stage indicates that the technical and institutional cooperation being developed with Kazakhstan could form a new model capable of strengthening regional water diplomacy. In addition, Uzbekistan’s process of updating its targets under the Protocol on Water and Health also shows that the state is positioning water management not merely as an environmental issue, but at the center of public health, sustainable development, and climate change adaptation policies.[i]
The joint project aimed at protecting transboundary groundwater reserves, discussed within the framework of the UNECE Water Convention, represents not merely an environmental initiative but also a mechanism for building regional confidence.[ii] The development of joint indicators for the sustainable use of groundwater reserves, the enhancement of data sharing between states, and the establishment of joint monitoring systems can be regarded as important steps that will contribute to preventing potential water disputes in the future.
Another notable element in this process is the emphasis placed on strengthening institutional cooperation with Kazakhstan. The working group planned to be established following the talks aims to create a multi-stakeholder governance model that encompasses not only technical experts but also various ministries and public institutions.[iii] This situation is considered a functional tool that deepens institutional partnerships in terms of international relations.
Uzbekistan’s goal-setting process under the Water and Sanitation Protocol demonstrates its efforts to strengthen the state’s capacity to comply with international norms. Having become a party to the Protocol in 2023, Uzbekistan is adopting a comprehensive approach that integrates water management with health, sanitation, hygiene, and environmental policies. This approach is directly aligned with the clean water and sanitation goals set out in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly UN Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation).[iv]
Uzbekistan’s preparation of a national water strategy extending until 2050 is also a noteworthy development in terms of international relations. This long-term planning approach considers climate change, environmental sustainability, and economic development within the same policy framework. This demonstrates that the state aims not only to solve current water problems but also to develop institutional resilience against potential future water crises.[v]
These developments also demonstrate the increasing importance of environmental diplomacy. Today, the conservation of water reserves is not only an integral part of environmental policies, but also of foreign policy, economic development, and regional security strategies. Uzbekistan’s ongoing important process shows that environmental governance mechanisms can be used as a tool of soft power, confidence-building measures, and regional integration in international relations.
In conclusion, Uzbekistan’s transboundary groundwater management efforts in collaboration with UNECE represent a significant milestone in the institutionalization of water diplomacy in Central Asia. The joint mechanisms developed for the sustainable management of groundwater create a multi-dimensional governance model that supports not only environmental protection but also regional security, international cooperation, and sustainable development.
The goal-setting phase conducted within the framework of the Water and Health Protocol demonstrates Uzbekistan’s capacity to comply with international norms, while also addressing climate change adaptation, public health, and water security policies within a holistic framework. In the future, expanding this partnership beyond Kazakhstan to include other Central Asian states could significantly contribute to strengthening the regional water security architecture. At this stage, Uzbekistan can be considered a current and noteworthy example showcasing the contribution of multi-vector environmental governance models, developed with the support of international organizations, to regional peace and sustainable development.
[i] “Uzbekistan and UNECE Discuss Transboundary Groundwater Protection”, UZ DAILY, https://www.uzdaily.uz/en/uzbekistan-and-unece-discuss-transboundary-groundwater-protection/, (Access Date: 02.07.2026).
[ii] Aynı Yer.
