In accordance with the Decree of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan No. 1184, dated June 15, 2026, the International Prize of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan in the Field of Water has been established.
The establishment of this International Prize is a logical continuation of Tajikistan’s international initiatives in the water sector and originates from the far-sighted initiatives of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon.
It should be noted that for more than two decades, Tajikistan’s global initiatives have received the support of the United Nations General Assembly and have made a significant contribution to addressing global challenges related to water resources, as well as to the preservation of glaciers.
Among these 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).
Furthermore, at the initiative of Tajikistan, March 21 has been observed annually as World Day for Glaciers since 2025.
It is also noteworthy that the High-Level International Conference known as the “Dushanbe Water Process” has today assumed a special place among global forums and is recognized as an international platform for discussing global water-related issues.
The adoption of relevant resolutions by the world’s most authoritative international organization serves as evidence of the international community’s recognition of Tajikistan’s initiatives, particularly the constructive initiatives of the President of the country, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon.
In this context, the establishment of the International Prize of the President of the Republic of Tajikistan in the Field of Water will further strengthen Tajikistan’s position as a leading country in addressing global water challenges.
At the same time, the Prize will help increase the interest of researchers and specialized scientific institutions in the in-depth study of water-related issues, while also promoting technology exchange and attracting investment aimed at glacier preservation and ensuring access to clean water.
To identify candidates for the Prize, a competent commission will be established, which 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 international water-related events organized in Tajikistan.
