The climate crisis is increasingly impacting water resources worldwide. Floods, droughts, and melting glaciers are already affecting millions of people’s access to clean water.

These issues are particularly pressing for Central Asian countries, including Tajikistan, where water resources are directly linked to life, agriculture, and energy.

We spoke with Aidan Cronin, UNICEF’s Senior Global Advisor for Water, Hygiene, and Sanitation, at the International Water Conference in Dushanbe, to discuss the challenges this poses for children and young people, why countries need to develop climate-resilient water systems, and what role the younger generation can play in addressing water issues.

The conversation also touched on youth engagement in water management, the importance of international cooperation, and the search for long-term solutions to ensure access to safe water and sanitation amid the worsening climate crisis.