According to the UN News Service, despite a relatively high level of access to water and sanitation, Kazakhstan faces a number of challenges, including disruptions in water supply and inadequate wastewater treatment. The situation is exacerbated by climate change, outdated infrastructure, and disparities in development between urban and rural areas.
Tatyana Molchan, Executive Secretary of the UNECE, noted that Kazakhstan's accession to the protocol will strengthen regional efforts to ensure safe water and sanitation, urging other Central Asian countries to follow its example.
As part of this protocol, Kazakhstan intends to continue working towards achieving national goals related to the protection of water resources, improving public health, and sanitation. Regular reports on progress made will also become part of the country's commitments. An assessment of access to water and sanitation will be completed by 2026, contributing to Kazakhstan's preparation for the UN Water Conference in 2026.
The protocol, adopted in 1999, aims to protect health, ensure sustainable management of water resources, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. For Kazakhstan, it will come into force on April 5, 2026.
