Central Asia's Raging Waters: The Prospects of Water Conflict in Central Asia
Abstract
This thesis examines the prospects of conflict caused by water scarcity in Central Asia using a comparative case study methodology. The last 150 years of Central Asian history can be clearly categorized into three periods: Tsarist Russia's invasion and occupation of Central Asia, Soviet annexation of the region, and eventual independence for the former Soviet Central Asian republics. The thesis analyzes these three political eras of Central Asian history using indicators of water conflict, including water quality, water quantity, water management for multiple uses, political divisions and geopolitical setting, state institutions, and national water ethos. Although water is not likely to be the sole cause of a major regional conflict, it is likely to be one of several catalysts of conflict or instability in an already weak region. Almost every indicator studied in this thesis worsened during the Soviet era and has not improved since the Central Asian countries gained their independence. The current water situation in Central Asia leaves the region very insecure.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA467385
Entities
People
- William B. Hartman
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School