Water with Borders - 1x12’ - English
November 2002

Water is a source of conflict in central Asia, especially between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Agriculture, and in particular crops like cotton and rice that require large amounts of water, has increased the water requirements of countries in the region. Those who have water try to keep hold of it and use it to bargain with their neighbours.
During the Soviet era, water and electricity were exchanged freely, but these newly independent countries have been unable to find an area of agreement to replace the centralised system.