Expert Backs Kazakhstan's UN Water Body Proposal to Fight Climate Crisis

Dr. Michal Kravčík, a Goldman Environmental Prize winner, has praised Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s proposal to create an international water organisation under the UN. Kravčík sees the move as a timely response to global climate and water challenges. He argues that a centralised approach to water issues is now urgent and essential. Kravčík believes the proposal addresses a critical gap, as no dedicated UN body for water currently exists. He warns that ignoring small water cycles can lead to long-term droughts. The New Water Paradigm, which he supports, focuses on restoring these cycles by recognising that rainfall depends on evaporation from land surfaces.

The proposed organisation could strengthen interstate water cooperation, encourage knowledge exchange, and push for updates in water law. Practical steps include pilot projects to retain water in soil and preserve precipitation across different basins. Earlier, Kazakhstan’s Water Minister, Nurzhan Nurzhanov, met with experts to discuss implementing these ideas in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Their recommendations include forming a working group to apply the New Water Paradigm, with a focus on reviving small water cycles in the region. The proposal aims to tackle water and climate security through coordinated action. Pilot projects and policy changes are expected to follow. The new UN body could play a key role in shaping global water management.