A Blueprint for Resilience

The Europe and Central Asia region is highly heterogeneous, and water security challenges vary widely. Although relatively similar, some challenges are of a different size, especially given each country's various geographical, cultural, economic, and political departure points. This assessment explores the main regional challenges and opportunities related to water security by delving into the situations faced by each of the three major subregions: the Danube, Central Asia, and the South Caucasus. Despite the region’s heterogeneity, a common theme many countries share is the low and inconsistent political priority given to water. This report’s goal is, therefore, threefold: (a) to raise awareness among policymakers of the importance of prioritizing water (including allocating adequate funds) for people, the planet, and economic prosperity; (b) to stimulate national and regional policy dialogue to harness water for greater economic, social, and environmental good; and (c) to offer clear, actionable recommendations that orient policy makers and sector practitioners toward sustainable, long-term regional water security.