The Development of a New Water Code in the Republic of Kazakhstan

Abstract

The new Water Code (WC), adopted in the Republic of Kazakhstan (RK) in 2003, has not been sufficiently enforced. This has led to the water quality degradation and shortages. This paper identifies the factors leading up to the development of the WC and reasons for its weak enforcement. Using open-ended interviews and a an analysis of archival information, this paper examines the reduction of financing and a weakening institutional capacity of the water organizations as main reasons for water quality degradation. These factors, plus unfamiliarity with the international terminology and inconsistency with other legislative acts are presented as key causes for the poor WC enforcement. The future of the water resources in Kazakhstan depends upon the effectiveness of future capacity building efforts.