Author(s): Alimardin Medetov, Kairat Bitemirov, Sadykh Yessimkulov, Balgabay Nakypov, Aisulu Sabyr
The concept of the transboundary water resource management is extremely relevant to Kazakhstan as almost 45% of country’s water resources come from neighbouring countries. At the same time, the country faces environmental challenges such as water scarcity, desertification and climate change. However, legislative and institutional ineffectiveness have caused an unsustainable water resource use and threaten the long-term sustainability of water security in Kazakhstan. Specifically, poorly framed piece of legislation including national Water code have led to under-investment in water efficiency measures, leading to extensive water losses, soil salinity, as well as degradation of agricultural land. This study aims to review and discuss the current water sector in Kazakhstan with focus on legislative and institutional framework for transboundary water resources management in Kazakhstan.