The Fourth High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development” 2018–2028 will be held in Dushanbe from May 25–28, 2026. Hosted by the Government of Tajikistan and the UN, the event is set to attract over 2,500 participants from 31 countries, along with representatives from 33 international organizations and financial institutions.
At a briefing held in Dushanbe on March 18, Tajikistan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sanoi Boyzoda, emphasized the global importance of addressing water resource issues, highlighting that "billions of people still lack access to safe drinking water and sanitation." He also pointed out that "climate change, population growth, and the risks of natural disasters are placing unprecedented pressure on water resources," making the conference’s theme highly relevant.
Boyzoda further noted that Tajikistan, as a key center for international water dialogue, continues to actively contribute to shaping global solutions in this area, underlining the country’s role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly concerning water resources.
Rustam Abdulloyev, Head of the Energy Policy Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan, presented the conference's program during the briefing.
One of the key topics for discussion will be transboundary cooperation in water resource management. The conference will explore experiences and approaches used for joint management of water systems in countries that share rivers and bodies of water. Special attention will be given to resolving water disputes and finding solutions for the fair and effective distribution of water resources.
Another significant focus of the forum will be innovations in the water sector. Participants will examine cutting-edge technologies and solutions that can help increase water-use efficiency, improve water quality, and contribute to the sustainable use of water resources. This will include both new water purification technologies and methods to optimize water supply in the context of growing populations and climate change.
On May 25, the Asian-Pacific Regional Preparatory Meeting, organized by ESCAP, will kick off, followed by a cultural program for participants in the evening.
The official opening ceremony, international exhibition, plenary sessions, and thematic discussions focusing on continuity in water actions and cooperation at various levels will take place on May 26. An official reception hosted by the Government of Tajikistan will be held in the evening.
On May 27, participants will continue with plenary sessions, as well as informal consultations on water resource issues until 2028 and discussions on the "Water Resources Agenda Beyond 2030." The conference will conclude with a press conference at the end of the day.
The final day, May 28, will feature field visits and excursions, where participants will have the opportunity to explore Tajikistan’s experience in water resource management. These activities will complement the discussions and provide valuable insights into the practical aspects of sustainable water use.
Organizers believe the conference in Dushanbe will continue Tajikistan’s tradition as an important global forum for water issues, contributing to the acceleration of global efforts to solve challenges related to water supply, conservation, and sustainable development.
