On April 11, 2025, Kyrgyzstan held a conference focused on improving monitoring and forecasting of climate-related natural disasters. The conference highlighted the increasing frequency and severity of such disasters due to climate change. Experts discussed innovative technologies and emphasized the importance of international cooperation in enhancing disaster resilience. A resolution was adopted to develop a National Strategy for Early Warning Systems.
On April 11, 2025, Bishkek hosted an International Scientific and Practical Conference organized by the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic, in collaboration with various organizations including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Food Programme. This gathering aimed to enhance the monitoring and forecasting of climate-related natural disasters, addressing the increasing impacts of climate change in the region.
The frequency and intensity of natural disasters in Kyrgyzstan have surged, particularly noted in 2024 with record numbers of mudflows, marking a severe impact on local communities and infrastructure. The rise in such disasters is attributed to climate change, environmental degradation, and rapid urbanization, stressing the crucial need for effective monitoring, forecasting, and early warning systems in risk reduction efforts.
The conference served as a vital platform for collaboration among government policymakers, scientists, practitioners, international organizations, and private sector representatives. It focused on the development of Comprehensive Monitoring and Forecasting of Emergency Situations, integrating monitoring and early warning systems.
Boobek Ajikeev, Minister of Emergency Situations, underscored the urgency of coordinated action in light of the vulnerabilities faced by mountain regions, exacerbated by glacier melt and changing precipitation patterns. The discussions highlighted innovative technologies such as AI analytics and satellite observation tools aimed at enhancing community preparedness.
International experts from countries such as Japan, Switzerland, and Kazakhstan participated, exchanging best practices and emphasizing cross-border cooperation in managing disaster risk. The conference culminated in a Resolution Document that commits stakeholders to develop a National Strategy for a Multi-Level Early Warning System for Disasters, integrating AI platforms and sustainable financing mechanisms.
UNDP has been instrumental in advancing these objectives by partnering with the Kyrgyz Government to implement the National Development Programme-2026, focusing on disaster risk management and community preparedness. Alexandra Solovieva, the UNDP Resident Representative, expressed gratitude for the support from Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the European Union to improve community resilience in Kyrgyzstan.
In closing, the event fostered discussions on adapting global best practices to create inclusive early warning systems that effectively reach vulnerable populations in Kyrgyzstan.
The conference in Bishkek marks a significant step in strengthening Kyrgyzstan’s response to climate-related natural disasters. By enhancing monitoring and forecasting systems and promoting international collaboration, the nation aims to build resilience against the escalating impacts of climate change. The commitment to a National Strategy for Early Warning Systems reflects a proactive approach towards safeguarding communities and infrastructure.
Original Source: www.undp.org
