Transboundary water management in Central Asia and its impact on regional security

Abstract

Three decades after the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the establishment of independent Central Asian states, the legal framework for transboundary water cooperation in the Aral Sea Basin requires review and improvement. The existing legal framework is characterised by the legacy of the Soviet system and comprises numerous normative acts, the majority of which are either outdated or ineffective. In light of the profound political and socio-economic changes that have occurred in the riparian states, it is important to facilitate transboundary water management and to support the strengthening of regional security in Central Asia through the establishment of a robust legal framework. This thesis examines whether the existing legislation is effective for regional transboundary water management, or whether the establishment of a new treaty based on international legal standards and best practices is required.