Thematic Input Paper 3: Pathways to sustainable solutions to manage water and reduce disaster risks under climate change in Central Asia and the Caucasus

This paper reflects on two realities: on one hand, the willingness to modernize different sectors of the economy in the pressing context of climate change, and on the other hand, the incapacity to break with historical Soviet governance model (e.g. rigid institutional structures, radical vertical management, low level of initiative spirit, etc.) as well as post-Soviet patterns marked by authoritarian jurisdictions with little concern for equitability and collective resources. Adjusting the way we manage natural resources in a changing climate requires new sets of competences, pluri-disciplinary specialists, and increased levels of coordination among various actors. Based on the background provided in the Thematic Input Paper 2, the Thematic Input Paper 3 examines potential pathways for sustainable solutions relevant for the Central Asia and Caucasus regions.