The World Water Problem: The Central Asian Case

Abstract

The problem of the lack of clean water for the population of many countries of the world continues to worsen as the climate warms. Being one of the most pressing environmental problems of our time, it attracts the close attention of scientists, politicians, and experts. At the global level, many universal and special institutions are dealing with the problem. The main directions in solving the problem, as they are seen today, are summarized in the Program of Sustainable Development Goals, in goal number six. These are tasks for both States and the international community. One of the ways to reduce the problem is related to finding a more equitable and efficient use of transboundary rivers, which, in turn, is based on a mechanism for calculating the water surface area regulated by an international agreement. Statistically, this is reflected through SDG 6.5.2. Aim. The purpose of the article is to examine the state of affairs related to water scarcity in Central Asia, related to the political regulation of transboundary rivers. These problems are typical for other regions as well. Tasks. Objectives: to analyze the UN Conventions on solving water problems. Identify the main SDGs used to form problem management mechanisms. To show the existing multilateral mechanisms for solving the water shortage in Central Asia. To propose platforms for discussing possible mechanisms. Methods: based on empirical and statistical data from the United Nations on SDG 6.5.2. using general scientific methods and a case study on solving Central Asian problems. Proposals have been developed to solve the problem in a multilateral format. Conclusions. It is shown that more efficient use of transboundary rivers can be achieved if there is a regional (basin) mechanism (multilateral agreement).