Bridging waters – harnessing science diplomacy for climate resilience in the Hindu Kush Himalaya

By:
Faisal Mueen Qamer, Intervention Manager, Resilient River Basins, ICIMOD
Yumiko Asayama, Chief Manager, Japan Water Forum (JWF)

Climate change severely threatens the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region, where declining cryosphere threatens water security for nearly a quarter of the world's population. Cryosphere in the HKH, vital for major Asian river systems, are shrinking rapidly due to global warming. The Global Cooperation Barometer 2025 reveals a troubling stagnation in international cooperation, essential for tackling transboundary issues like water management. Declines in international cooperation along with geopolitical tensions, economic disparities, and uneven capital flows, call for innovative and collaborative solutions to protect regional and global ecological and humanitarian futures.

Historically, emerging challenges have often spurred the creation of innovative institutions or approaches. For instance, the establishment of International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) are some examples of efforts in science diplomacy to address global and regional issues. These developments highlight how science diplomacy facilitates new collaborative frameworks, integrating scientific insights to deliver inclusive and effective solutions.

The International Year of Glaciers' Preservation 2025 commenced on 21 January, with a panel discussion as a side event hosted by ICIMOD and the Asia Pacific Water Forum. The panel discussion on ‘Tackling glacial melt and water challenges in the Hindu Kush Himalaya: a science diplomacy approach for regional cooperation,’ focused on science-based collaborative strategies to tackle the urgent challenges of glacial melt in the region. It aimed to highlight the interdependence between the cryosphere, river systems, and regional stability, promoting science diplomacy for effective transboundary water management amidst climate change.

At the panel discussion, experts from major river basin countries and international organisations explored a variety of topics including regional cooperation, sustainable water management, and the role of science diplomacy in addressing the interconnected challenges of the HKH region. Each panellist shared unique insights and here are a few highlights:

• ‘Our actions today will decide the future of our glaciers and rivers. Regional and global cooperation isn’t optional; it’s urgent and essential for survival.’ Dr. Shahbaz Khan, UNESCO.
• ‘As glaciers recede, the threat of water scarcity looms larger than ever. To ensure sustainable water management and resilience, we must strengthen regional cooperation through science diplomacy, enhanced monitoring, and community-led adaptation.’ Dr. Pema Gyamtsho, ICIMOD.
• ‘The accelerating cryosphere decline is a clear signal that we must prepare for less predictable water flows. The priority should be on resilience and adaptation, improving data monitoring.’ Dr. Arun Shrestha, ICIMOD.
• ‘The peak water phenomenon may offer temporary relief but portends a crisis of water availability that could destabilise the region.’ Dr. Muhammad Arif Goheer, Global Climate-Change Impact Studies Centre (GCISC), Pakistan.
• ‘Effective management of transboundary river waters hinges not just on technological solutions but on our ability to foster regional dialogues that bridge data gaps and policy disconnects.’ Dr. Bushra Nishat, World Bank, Bangladesh.
• ‘Critical need for transboundary cooperation, science diplomacy, and enhanced disaster management systems to ensure sustainable water resources and resilience in the HKH.’ Prof. A. P. Dimri, Indian Institute of Geomagnetism.
• ‘Creating robust regional mechanisms isn't just about policy—it's about ensuring these policies are infused with local realities and global science.’ Dr. Anamika Barua, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, India.
• ‘Leveraging technology supported by real-time data and robust partnerships in hydrological sciences can transform our approach to water management, making it more resilient and responsive.’ Dr. Sanjay Srivastava, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP).
• ‘Integrating glacier and snowpack data into our water management policies is vital for adapting to the unpredictable impacts of climate change.’ Dr. Anil Mishra, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

In the wrap-up session of the panel, Dr. Shahbaz Khan summarised the discussions and emphasised the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach to address the complex issues of the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region, including glacial melt and water insecurity. He highlighted the importance of integrating scientific research with traditional wisdom and local expertise. He also stressed the need for collaborative frameworks that engage scientists, policymakers, and community members. Here are the key discussions:

• Urgency need for integrated approach: The panellists emphasised the urgent need to address the impacts of glacial melt, advocating for a comprehensive strategy that integrates scientific research, policy development, and community engagement. This approach is necessary to tackle the interconnected environmental, social, and economic challenges.
• Importance of data and science: The discussions highlighted that reliable data collection and enhanced monitoring is essential for accurately assessing impacts and informing adaptive strategies. The panellists also underlined the importance of science diplomacy in promoting data sharing and collaborative research.
• Regional cooperation and policy frameworks: There was a strong emphasis on the need for stronger regional cooperation and robust policy frameworks to support sustainable water management, disaster risk reduction, and equitable resources distribution. These frameworks should be bolstered by science diplomacy and constructive dialogues.
• Technological innovations and nature-based solutions: Technological advancements were recognised for their potential to improve predictive capabilities and water management practices. Additionally, the role of nature-based solutions in maintaining healthy ecosystems was noted as crucial for sustainable environmental management.
• Community engagement and capacity building: The panellists put emphasis on the importance of involving local communities in decision-making processes, highlighting that local insights are vital for effective adaptation strategies. Building capacity at all levels was also deemed essential to prepare communities and nations for climate-related challenges.

Recommendations

• Establishment of a permanent dialogue platform: The panellists proposed creation of a permanent platform for ongoing communication and collaboration among nations, researchers, and policymakers in the HKH region.
• Investment in research, monitoring, and data integration for resilient Infrastructure: Increase funding for cryosphere, climate, and hydrological research and monitoring of glaciers and hydrological systems to develop resilient infrastructures and withstand climate impacts.
• Educational and public awareness programmes: develop educational initiatives and public awareness campaigns to enhance understanding of the climate and hydrological impacts of river basins and promote sustainable practices.
• Foster international partnerships: The panellists encouraged the strengthening of international partnerships to pool scientific knowledge and local wisdom within an open science framework, leveraging expertise and resources to enhance the region’s ability to tackle the challenges of climate change and glacial melt.

The event underlined the necessity for interdisciplinary collaborations and regional cooperation to comprehensively address the challenges the HKH region is facing. The panel reaffirmed the need for a commitment to develop sustainable and inclusive strategies for managing climate impacts and water security, by integrating science, policy, and community insights, setting a foundation for resilience.

Additional reading:
IYGP 2025 side event Panel on Tackling glacial melt and water challenges in the Hindu Kush Himalaya: A science diplomacy approach for regional cooperation