Strengthening river basin governance in Kyrgyzstan face to climate challenges

Representatives from the Talas, Chu and Issyk-Kul Tarim Basin Water Management Authorities took part in this training session, focused on approaches for effective basin-level management.

The training covered key aspects of integrated river basin management, including basin planning, the national legal framework for water use permits, and the role of Basin Water Management Authorities within Kyrgyzstan’s evolving water governance system. Participants were also introduced to the experience of French water agencies and basin councils, including the polluter-pays principle as a mechanism to promote sustainable water use.

Discussions also addressed data management challenges and the need for more coherent water information systems to support decision-making. Particular attention was given to glacier melt, a critical issue in Kyrgyzstan where glaciers feed major river systems. As climate change accelerates glacial retreat, water availability is expected to become increasingly scarce.

In this context, strengthening river basin governance is essential to support transparent decision-making, prevent conflicts, and enable fair allocation of water resources among competing uses.

The workshop included group discussions that helped identify further capacity-building needs. Additional training sessions will be organised in the coming months.

At the end of March, river basin councils convened in the Talas, Chu and Issyk-Kul Tarim basins.