Regional Dialogue on the Role of Women and Youth in Water and Energy in Central Asia

On November 3–4, 2025, Bishkek hosted the regional dialogue “Gender and Youth in Water and Energy: Building Inclusive Futures for Central Asia.” The event was organized by GIZ in partnership with the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), the Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences (GFZ), the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP), the OSCE Academy in Bishkek, and the Central Asia and Afghanistan “Women and Water” Association (CAAWWA).

The dialogue brought together representatives of women’s and youth networks from across the region, international and governmental organizations, and independent experts. Its overarching goal was to enhance the participation of women and youth in water and energy governance through dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaboration, thereby strengthening regional cooperation.

Discussions centered on the need to empower women and young professionals in decision-making processes related to climate, water, and energy policy. Participants emphasized that climate change amplifies existing socio-economic challenges, while the voices of women and youth remain underrepresented in strategic planning and policymaking.

The two-day program featured plenary sessions, expert presentations, panel discussions, and interactive formats. Participants shared successful practices from Central Asian countries, including the youth initiative “Drops of the Future”, as well as the activities of the “Women in Water Diplomacy” and “Women in Energy” networks. In group discussions, participants identified key barriers and opportunities for inclusive engagement—ranging from limited access to education, finance, and professional development, to underrepresentation in decision-making processes.

Oygul Usmanova delivered a presentation highlighting achievements and future perspectives for expanding the role of women and youth in the water sector of Central Asia on behalf of SIC ICWC. She outlined the Center’s ongoing initiatives, including the establishment of a Regional Center of Excellence under the IKI project “Regional Mechanisms for a Low-Carbon and Climate-Resilient Transformation of the Energy–Water–Land Nexus in Central Asia.” The future Center of Excellence is to unite experts across the region to promote science diplomacy and strengthen capacity through joint research in support of evidence-based decision-making. Notably, women and youth are actively involved in shaping the Center’s concept through consultations and surveys.

Overall, the dialogue fostered professional networking and laid the basis for cooperation in developing sustainable and inclusive water and energy policies for Central Asia.