Water diplomacy and geopolitics: restoration and development

Abstract

The present article delves into the political processes concerning water in Central Asia, with a specific focus on Uzbekistan, spanning from ancient times to the contemporary era. The analysis is based on research findings from various scientific literature sources. The agricultural, livestock, and artisanal activities of the Central Asian population have historically been intertwined with water resources. Furthermore, the geopolitical theories of N. Spykman and H. Mackinder, such as the Heartland and Rimland models, have been meticulously examined. In the current global context, water-related issues are increasingly becoming a focal point for many nations, with predictions of potential political conflicts arising from water scarcity. Among the environmental challenges confronting the world today, water scarcity has emerged as a pressing concern. The next decade is anticipated to witness a pragmatic approach to water diplomacy in Central Asia, characterised by a foundation of close-neighbour diplomacy and mutual trust dialogues among the region's leaders. The relevance of scientific research offering clear analytical and prescriptive insights on these matters is underscored by their increasing significance in the present day.

Keywords

Central Asia, water, geopolitics