What is Azerbaijan's new water management system in 2026?

Azerbaijan is introducing an integrated, digital, and climate-adaptive national water management system in 2026, linking water security with economic planning and climate risk management.

What are the key reforms for Baku and the Absheron Peninsula?

Reforms include rehabilitating pipelines, reducing water losses, improving urban drainage, and constructing a large seawater desalination plant expected in 2028.

What national targets has Azerbaijan set for water management?

Targets include 95% continuous water supply, reducing water losses below 20%, full consumer metering, building 28 new reservoirs, and commissioning nine wastewater treatment plants.

Home / Environment / Azerbaijan's Water Reform: A Regional First

Azerbaijan's Water Reform: A Regional First

26 Jan

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Summary

Integrated digital, climate-smart water framework introduced in 2026.
Reform links water security with economic planning and climate risk.
Focus on Baku and Absheron Peninsula includes desalination and reuse.

Azerbaijan's Water Reform: A Regional First

Azerbaijan is poised to revolutionize its water management system in 2026 with a comprehensive, digital, and climate-adaptive framework, considered a regional first for the Caspian area. This initiative marks a significant departure from siloed sectoral approaches, establishing a unified system that integrates water security with economic strategy, climate change adaptation, and urban development. Dr. Rovshan Abbasov highlights that moderate water scarcity and dependence on transboundary sources necessitate this accelerated reform.

The new national framework uniquely combines infrastructure upgrades with governance reforms and advanced digital technologies. Unlike neighboring countries focusing on traditional methods or basic reservoir management, Azerbaijan is integrating digital monitoring, flood and drought forecasting, and policy changes into a cohesive national strategy. This approach addresses immediate infrastructure needs and deeper structural vulnerabilities.