Sustainable Transboundary Water Governance in Central Asia: Challenges, Conflicts, and Regional Cooperation

Sustainable transboundary water governance in Central Asia faces significant challenges, including political tensions, ecological issues, such as the drying Aral Sea, and seasonal hydropower disruptions impacting downstream countries. This study aims to address these problems by examining the complexities of water resource governance in the region, emphasizing the interplay between national interests and regional cooperation. We analyze how social, economic, environmental, and political factors influence water diplomacy among Central Asian states. Key challenges include water scarcity, climate change impacts and the growing tensions over transboundary river basins, particularly in the Aral Sea basin (i.e., the development of the Kushtepa Canal in Afghanistan). The intricate linkages between water, energy, and agriculture further complicate decision-making processes among riparian nations. While recent diplomatic efforts signal a shift towards enhanced regional cooperation, existing agreements remain fragmented, and a sustainable, long-term governance framework is still lacking. Our findings highlight the importance of an integrated, basin-wide approach to transboundary water management. We argue that a cohesive regional water strategy—grounded in international legal frameworks and supported by collaborative governance mechanisms—can mitigate conflicts and promote water security in Central Asia. The significance of this study lies in its potential to inform policy decisions and promote sustainable practices in transboundary water governance, ultimately contributing to the broader goals of sustainable development and regional cooperation.