LocationsUNDP calls for an integrated approach to managing water ecosystems of the Caspian Sea and the Zhaiyk River
June 8, 2026
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kazakhstan took part in the 12th meeting of the Parliamentary Commission on monitoring the implementation of national Sustainable Development Goals and targets, which focused on the sustainable management of water ecosystems of the Caspian Sea and the Zhaiyk River.
The session was chaired by the Speaker of the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Maulen Ashimbayev, and brought together representatives of government agencies, parliamentarians, international organizations and the expert community.
The meeting focused on water resource conservation, including the rational use of water, preservation of ecosystems of the Caspian Sea and the Zhaiyk River, strengthening resilience to climate change, and reinforcing cooperation among all partners to advance the Sustainable Development Goals.
“President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has repeatedly emphasized that the rapid decline in the level of the Caspian Sea has moved beyond a regional issue and has become a global concern. As a practical response, Kazakhstan has initiated the development of an Interstate Programme for the conservation of the Caspian Sea’s water resources. Continuing to advance the international water agenda, the president has also proposed establishing a Water Analysis Centre under the auspices of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Astana, as well as the creation of an International Water Organization as a specialized UN agency. The situation concerning the Zhaiyk River remains equally important. These issues cannot be considered in isolation and require strong inter-agency coordination, science-based decision-making, and active engagement of local authorities, the expert community, environmental organizations and international partners,” said Maulen Ashimbayev.
The discussion took place amid increasing pressure on Kazakhstan’s water resources. While progress has been made in improving water-use efficiency, the country continues to face significant water security challenges.
Since 2000, the economic value generated per cubic meter of water has increased by more than 160 percent, from approximately three to eight US dollars, demonstrating that efficient resource use and economic growth can go hand in hand.
However, pressure on water systems continues to grow, particularly due to agricultural demand. Although Kazakhstan currently withdraws only about one quarter of its renewable freshwater resources, water stress has increased from 29 percent in 2000 to 35 percent in 2022. In practical terms, out of every 100 litres of available renewable freshwater, around 35 litres are now withdrawn for agriculture, industry and households.
Although not yet at a critical level, this trend clearly signals increasing pressure on water systems and underscores the need for stronger water governance and long-term planning.
In response to these challenges, Kazakhstan continues to strengthen its water management system and implement a comprehensive set of measures to ensure water security.
“Alongside international cooperation, large-scale reforms are underway in the water sector. A new Water Code has been adopted by instruction of the Head of State, along with the Concept for the Development of the Water Resource Management System until 2030 and the Comprehensive Water Sector Development Plan until 2028. In implementation of the Water Code, a Government Resolution dated 23 August 2025 included the Zhaiyk River in the list of water bodies of special national importance,” said Nurzhan Nurzhigitov, Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
As a partner of the Government of Kazakhstan, UNDP supports the introduction of integrated approaches to water resource and ecosystem management based on international experience and data-driven solutions.
UNDP Resident Representative in Kazakhstan, Katarzyna Wawiernia, emphasized that water security extends far beyond environmental concerns and directly affects food and energy security, public health, economic competitiveness and the resilience of regional development.
“Sustainable management of water resources and ecosystems is an investment in Kazakhstan’s future. UNDP supports the country in developing and implementing data-driven solutions and best international practices that help preserve natural capital while advancing sustainable development. Moving toward an integrated approach to water ecosystem management is a critical step in strengthening the ecological resilience of the Caspian region and safeguarding its natural heritage for future generations,” she said.
To support national efforts on water security and ecosystem conservation, UNDP and the Government of Kazakhstan, with the support of the Government of Japan, have launched several initiatives in the region.
One initiative focuses on modernizing monitoring systems in the northern Caspian Sea and the Zhaiyk River basin by introducing advanced sensors, digital platforms and hydrological analysis tools. This will improve real-time monitoring of water levels, salinity, ecosystem conditions and climate risks.
In addition, with support from the Global Environment Facility, the Government of Kazakhstan and UNDP is launching a new programme on ecosystem-based management of the Kazakhstani part of the Caspian Sea and adjacent territories. This will include ecosystem mapping, spatial planning, biodiversity monitoring and restoration of degraded areas.
A key focus area will also be addressing marine pollution and marine litter in the Caspian Sea, including improving waste management systems and piloting innovative solutions in coastal communities.
These initiatives aim to strengthen the scientific basis for decision-making and promote an integrated approach that considers environmental, social and economic dimensions of regional development.
Mobilizing long-term financing remains a critical element of sustainable water management. Through the Coordination Council of Partners for Water Sector Development, co-chaired by the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation and UNDP, more than $US20 million has already been mobilized to support priority areas of the water sector.
UNDP is also supporting the development of Kazakhstan’s first blue bonds to help attract long-term investment into water infrastructure, wastewater treatment, ecosystem restoration and water efficiency.
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