As part of the 4th International High-Level Conference on the International Decade for Action ‘Water for Sustainable Development 2018–2028,’ the regional programmes ‘Green Central Asia, phase II’ and the ‘EU4SustainableCentralAsia’, implemented by GIZ, supported the organization of a high-level side event titled ‘Women Parliamentarians of Central Asia: Leadership in Advancing the Water Agenda for Sustainable Development.’
The side event provided a dedicated platform for dialogue on the critical role of women leaders in shaping water governance and advancing sustainable water management across Central Asia. Discussions highlighted the importance of inclusive leadership in addressing growing water security challenges in the context of climate change.
Participants explored key themes including gender-responsive policymaking, the strengthening of inter-parliamentary cooperation, and the development of more inclusive decision-making mechanisms in the water sector. Attention was given to the need to enhance the participation of women in political and technical processes related to water governance.
The event was organized in cooperation with the Institute of Water Problems, Hydropower and Ecology of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan. It brought together members of parliaments from Central Asian countries, representatives of international organizations, scientists, and policy experts, creating a platform for the exchange of experiences and the development of joint approaches aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
The discussions reaffirmed that advancing gender equality and strengthening regional cooperation are essential components of effective and sustainable water resource management. Participants emphasized that empowering women leaders can significantly contribute to more resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking water policies in the region.
