This book aims to define the problems experienced in the transboundary river basins in Central Asia and offer solutions to the problems related to the management of transboundary water resources throughout the region within the framework of the benefit sharing approach. Water issues in Central Asia have been evaluated as a factor that increases conflict between countries. Benefit sharing approach, which is becoming increasingly important in the sustainable management of transboundary water resources, aims to establish cooperation mechanisms where benefits and costs are shared among water users. Increasing the benefits obtained from water resources and managing them in an efficient, fair and sustainable way can be possible with benefit sharing mechanisms to be established in river basins.

Central Asia is highly vulnerable to droughts and climate change because agricultural production is mainly dependent on precipitation. The region is not rich in water resources and countries are struggling due to water scarcity. On the other hand, there is excessive water use in Central Asia, where agriculture is the top consumer. Wheat and cotton, having high water requirement, are the dominant crops produced in the region, resulting in unsustainable use of water resources. The concepts of water footprint and virtual water trade have the potential to help Central Asian countries adopt a benefit sharing approach so that efficient water use and food security can be achieved.