The International Water Award of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan has been established by a presidential decree dated June 15, 2026.
The establishment of the International Water Award is a logical continuation of Tajikistan’s global water initiatives under the leadership of President Emomali Rahmon.
For more than two decades, Tajikistan’s global initiatives have gained broad support from the United Nations General Assembly and have made a significant contribution to addressing global water challenges and preserving glaciers.
Among these landmark initiatives are the proclamation of the “International Year of Freshwater, 2003”, the International Decade for Action “Water for Life, 2005-2015”, the “International Year of Water Cooperation, 2013”, the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development, 2018-2028, the “International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation, 2025”, and the International Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences (2025-2034).
In addition, March 21 has been designated at Tajikistan’s initiative as the World Glacier Day and is observed annually since 2025.
The High-Level International Conference of the Dushanbe Water Process holds a prominent place among the leading global forums and is recognized as an international platform for the review of global water-related issues.
The adoption of resolutions by the United Nations reflects the international community’s recognition of Tajikistan’s constructive initiatives advanced by President Rahmon.
The establishment of the International Water Award will further strengthen Tajikistan’s standing as a leading advocate for addressing global water-related issues.
The award is also expected to encourage greater engagement by researchers, experts, and scientific institutions in the study of water-related issues, while promoting technological innovation, knowledge exchange, and investment aimed at glaciers’ preservation and ensuring access to clean water.
A dedicated selection commission will be established to identify and evaluate candidates for the award. The commission will also include representatives of the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health. The award ceremony will be held within the framework of major international water events hosted by Tajikistan.
