Press Release – Bishkek, 11 April 2025 – The Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic, in collaboration with the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Food Programme, and key development partners, convened an International Scientific and Practical Conference on Monitoring and Forecasting Climate-Related Natural Disasters focused on improving the monitoring and forecasting of climate-related natural disasters. 

In recent years, the accelerating impacts of climate change have dramatically increased the frequency, severity, and unpredictability of natural disasters in the region. In 2024 alone, Kyrgyzstan recorded an unprecedented number of mudflows—surpassing three decades of historical observation—with tragic consequences for communities and infrastructure. 

The frequency and intensity of such events are rising at an alarming rate, driven by climate change, environmental degradation, and rapid urbanization. In this context, robust monitoring, forecasting, and early warning systems are among the most critical tools for risk reduction.

Bringing together policymakers from Government, leading scientists, practitioners, international organizations, and private companies, the conference served as a high-level platform to share vision for developing Comprehensive Monitoring and Forecasting of Emergency Situations integrating monitoring and early warning systems. 

“Today’s event highlights the growing climate vulnerabilities of mountain regions, where glacier melt, shifting precipitation patterns, and frequent mudflows demand urgent and coordinated action,” emphasized Boobek Ajikeev, Minister of Emergency Situations.  

Discussions during the conference showcased advanced technologies—ranging from AI-driven analytics to satellite-based observation systems and predictive hydrometeorological models designed to improve forecasting and community preparedness. Experts from Japan, Switzerland, China, Kazakhstan, Slovenia, Georgia and Uzbekistan shared best practices and success stories, reinforcing the importance of cross-border cooperation in disaster risk management. 

The conference concluded with the adoption of a Resolution Document, which outlines a joint commitment to develop a National Strategy for a Multi-Level Early Warning System for Disasters, integrate of AI-based platforms, data, and information into the EWS, establish sustainable financing mechanisms and engage international financial institutions to strengthen disaster resilience. 

UNDP has played a critical role in advancing these goals. As a trusted partner of the Kyrgyz Government, UNDP is supporting the implementation of the National Development Programme-2026, including the disaster risk reduction, mitigation, adaptation, and disaster risk management through a broad portfolio of interventions—from modernizing the national hydrometeorological service and investing in digital early warning tools, to strengthening local capacity for risk-informed decision-making. UNDP’s work also includes piloting community-based disaster preparedness in high-risk mountainous areas and expanding access to risk information and early warning systems.  

“We appreciate our partnership with Governments of Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the European Union for their continued and strategic support. Their support contributes to improve the safety and resilience of communities across Kyrgyzstan. We support MES to modernize natural hazard monitoring and forecasting systems, strengthen fire and avalanche rescue capacities, and expand access to new technologies at the local level.” said Alexandra Solovieva, UNDP Resident Representative in Kyrgyzstan. 

The event concluded with a forward-looking dialogue on localizing global best practices and building inclusive early warning systems that reach the most vulnerable communities. 
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Contacts for the media: Ainagul Abdrakhmanova, Communications Officer at UNDP [email protected]

Source : UNDP

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