Statement by Antje Grawe, UNRC, at the National Water Forum “Management of Water Resources of the Kyrgyz Republic in conditions of climate change and preservation of Issyk-Kul Lake”

Dear Deputy Chairman of the Kyrgyz Republic, Mr. Bakyt Torobaev, 

Excellencies, colleagues and development partners,

Dear ladies and gentlemen, 

It is a great honor to address this critical forum on water resources management in Kyrgyzstan on behalf of the United Nations System.  Water, as the foundation of life, is vital for sustainable development, yet it is increasingly under threat due to climate change. Central Asia, with its unique and vulnerable environment, is experiencing profound changes. Over the past decades, the region has seen more frequent dry years, reduced glacier volumes, and worsening disasters. In Kyrgyzstan, where over 90% of water originates from glaciers, more than 30% of glacier mass has already been lost, threatening agriculture, energy production, and livelihoods as well as mountainous ecosystems and biodiversity.

Climate projections underscore the urgency of action. While hydropower potential may temporarily increase by 2.5% by the mid-2030s, annual runoff is expected to decline by 41% by 2050. With quicker snowmelt, aging infrastructure, and disaster risks such as mudflows, landslides, and flooding, the region faces escalating challenges. Yet, these challenges also present opportunities to adapt and innovate and this is why I very much welcome the initiative of today’s Forum to discuss actions.

Kyrgyzstan has taken important steps, including implementing measures from amendments to its Land, Water and Forest Codes to developing national strategies for urban and rural water supply as well as advancing its Mountain Agenda and institutionalizing the dialogue on climate change under the COP framework. 

Looking ahead, allow me to make six observations:

First, the implementation of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) will be pivotal in building resilience. By integrating scientific evidence and engaging communities, especially in rural and mountainous areas, the NAP will enhance local capacity to address climate vulnerabilities in a holistic approach. The UN is actively supporting this process, helping Kyrgyzstan align adaptation efforts with national and regional development priorities with a particular focus on four areas – agriculture and irrigation, biodiversity, emergency and health.

Second, the development of the third-generation Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), to be presented by all nations including Kyrgyzstan at the next COP30 in Brazil, provides an opportunity to accelerate climate action. With Kyrgyzstan’s renewable energy potential, particularly in hydropower, there is a chance to unlock green economic growth and transition to carbon neutrality. However, balancing energy needs with water availability will require careful planning. The UN is committed to assisting Kyrgyzstan in setting ambitious, actionable NDC targets that integrate water management and climate resilience.

Third, regional cooperation is equally critical. Central Asia’s shared water resources highlight the need for transboundary governance. Kyrgyzstan’s upstream role places it in a leadership position to foster dialogue and trust. The UN has a robust portfolio of transboundary initiatives, including UNECE’s long-standing support to the Chu-Talas Commission and UNDP’s work on climate-related fragility in the Ferghana Valley, to mention just a few. These efforts aim to build capacity and strengthen cooperation among neighboring countries to address shared challenges, such as water scarcity, disaster risk, and infrastructure vulnerabilities. In the future, this is becoming only more important!

Fourth, financing remains a major challenge. As COP29 emphasized, scaling up adaptation finance is essential to translating plans into action. Kyrgyzstan has taken proactive steps, such as the establishment of the Climate Finance Center which serves as a model for future partnerships. The UN is helping Kyrgyzstan access funding from the Green Climate Fund and Global Environment Facility while working with the government to design a Multi-Partner Trust Fund to support climate adaptation and environmental protection, including to address biodiversity loss. 

Fifth, partnerships are at the core of addressing these challenges. Partnerships of course with the government but also with the World Bank and other international financial institutions are critical to achieving sustainable water management. The UN stands ready to facilitate these partnerships, mobilize technical expertise, and help coordinate efforts. 

Lastly, as we navigate these complex challenges, we must not lose sight of the human dimension. Climate change disproportionately affects the most vulnerable, especially women and girls, who bear the burden of water collection and face heightened risks during disasters. Ensuring equitable access to water is not just a technical issue—it is a matter of human rights and social justice. The UN continues to help advocate for gender-sensitive policies and inclusive practices that empower communities and leave no one behind.

Ladies and gentlemen, by advancing adaptation planning, leveraging ambitious NDCs, strengthening regional cooperation, securing finance, and fostering partnerships, Kyrgyzstan can lead the way in sustainable water management. The UN remains committed to supporting Kyrgyzstan in every step of the way under our five-years Cooperation Framework with the Government where climate action and the green economy are two of our four strategic priorities. 

Thank you very much.