The World Bank Group has released its Tajikistan Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR), highlighting the potential for climate action to revitalize Tajikistan's economy while addressing climate change risks. The report emphasizes that a green transition could offer significant economic benefits, job creation, and protection against extreme weather events.
Ozan Sevimli, World Bank Group Country Manager for Tajikistan, stated, "Tajikistan is in urgent need of an economic reset that can help address its many development challenges as well as significant and increasing impacts of climate change that are threatening future progress." He noted that the CCDR provides a pathway to accelerate the transition to a green economy.
The report calls for mobilizing private finance alongside limited public resources to achieve goals such as water, food, and energy security. Bahodur Sheralizoda, Chair of the Environmental Protection Committee under the Government of Tajikistan, pointed out that despite ranking 130th in global greenhouse gas emissions, Tajikistan is highly vulnerable to climate change. He emphasized the CCDR's recommendations on enhancing production efficiency and promoting innovative technologies.
Tajikistan faces high risks from natural disasters like floods and earthquakes. Climate-related damages could potentially reduce real GDP by 5-6% by 2050. The Vakhsh River Basin, crucial for electricity generation, highlights these challenges. Air pollution also remains a significant issue.
To support a green transition, structural reforms are necessary. These include opening up the economy to attract private investment and improving public service delivery through better governance. Strengthening education and healthcare systems is also vital.
The report outlines several key recommendations: establishing stronger institutions for climate action planning; implementing just and inclusive strategies with labor market programs; modernizing irrigation infrastructure; developing renewable energy sources; and adopting low-carbon technologies.
Significant investments are required for this agenda—estimated at $17 billion beyond current plans—with much expected from the private sector. However, external technical and financial support will be essential due to limited domestic financing capacity.
The CCDRs aim to inform stakeholders about impactful actions for a low carbon transition while supporting broader development goals.