Inadequacies in the Water Reforms in the Kyrgyz Republic: An Institutional Analysis

Abstract

"Transition economies in Central Asian countries and elsewhere face unique challenges of carrying out synchronized reforms in most of the sectors simultaneously. A study of such reform efforts provides useful insights and lessons for many other similar countries. This report analyzes the evolving water-management institutions and their performance of five core water management functions, in the context of the ongoing economic and agrarian reform in the Kyrgyz Republic. These core water-management functions are, operation of water systems, maintenance, resource mobilization, conflict resolution and organizational management. Besides, the separation of the institutional powers of the four basic roles of regulation, governance, management (or implementation) and arbitration has also been studied. The separation of these functions supports clear relations of accountability and avoids conflicts of interest, which may occur if some of these powers are vested in the same organization. The report also identifies key issues and challenges that constrain effective stakeholder participation in water-resources management."