Within the framework of the 4th High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development” 2018–2028, GIZ, through the EU4Sustainable Central Asia project, together with international and national development partners, supported the organization of the International Forum “Women and Water.” The event was organized by the Committee on Women and Family Affairs under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan in cooperation with the UN Women Country Office in Tajikistan and served as an important international platform for discussing gender equality and strengthening women’s participation in water resource management processes. The Forum brought together more than 120 participants from various countries, including government officials, representatives of international organizations, academia, civil society, and expert communities, to exchange experiences and best practices in water governance and sustainable development.
During the discussions, particular attention was given to the role of women as key actors in decision-making processes related to water resources, climate adaptation, and environmental sustainability. Participants emphasized that strengthening women’s leadership and ensuring their active involvement in the development and implementation of water policies contribute to more effective water resource management, enhanced community resilience to climate-related challenges, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Forum reaffirmed the importance of further strengthening international cooperation and cross-sectoral dialogue to advance inclusive approaches to water governance, in which gender equality is recognized as an integral component of sustainable and equitable development.