The Autonomous Republic of Karakalpakstan is a microcosm of the water-and climate-related challenges facing Central Asia. Whilst the Aral Sea disaster is relatively well known and attracts political attention and financing for increasingly ambitious (and absurd) schemes, the even greater human and environmental impact of water scarcity up stream is overlooked. Ibbotson, an advisor to the Chairman of the Jokargy Kenes (the Supreme Council of Karakalpakstan) will discuss the current situation; the threat posed by the construction of the Kosh Tepe canal; and recently proposed water saving policies in Uzbekistan; within Karakalpakstan‘s wider development context.

Sophie Ibbotson is the Chairman of the Royal Society for Asian Affairs. She works primarily as a consultant to the World Bank and national governments, with a focus on economic development and water security in emerging markets and fragile states. As a 2023/24 Visiting Fellow at the Changing Character of War Centre, Sophie examined the forecasting and mitigation of water conflicts in Afghanistan and Central Asia; and she is currently writing the first biography of the Amu Darya (River Oxus), from its source in Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor to the ill-fated Aral Sea.

The talk will be followed by drinks reception to provide an opportunity for networking. There is also an opportunity to join the speaker for dinner. Email Ira at owncoordinator@water.ox.ac.uk if you are interested in joining for the dinner.