Institutionalizing Adaptation and Integrating Climate Risks into Kazakhstan’s Development Planning through the National Adaptation Plan

The Government of Kazakhstan is strengthening its efforts to reduce vulnerability to climate change by developing a National Adaptation Plan (NAP). While Kazakhstan has taken steps to assess climate risks, as reflected in its Seventh (2017) and Eighth (2022) National Communications to the UNFCCC, adaptation measures have so far been limited in scale and scope. Existing efforts are often ad hoc, implemented through international programs, and not systematically integrated into national policies. Additionally, while some sectoral policies include adaptation-related actions, they are not explicitly linked to climate risks and resilience-building.

This readiness project aims to establish a comprehensive framework for adaptation planning by mainstreaming climate resilience into national policies and sectoral strategies. The NAP will focus on key sectors such as agriculture, water resources, health, natural ecosystems, and socio-economic development, ensuring a coordinated and evidence-based approach to adaptation. By addressing gaps in policy and institutional capacity, the project will help Kazakhstan develop targeted adaptation strategies that strengthen resilience at both national and local levels.

Furthermore, the project will support the integration of climate risk assessments into decision-making processes, improving Kazakhstan’s ability to anticipate and respond to climate-related challenges. It will also enhance coordination between government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and international partners to scale up adaptation efforts.

By building a structured and strategic approach to adaptation, Kazakhstan’s NAP will ensure that climate resilience becomes a fundamental part of the country’s long-term development planning. This will help safeguard key economic sectors, protect vulnerable communities, and enhance Kazakhstan’s ability to manage the growing impacts of climate change. 

• Outcome 3.1: Adaptation planning governance and institutional coordination strengthened

• Outcome 3.2: Evidence produced to design adaptation solutions for maximum impact and capacities established to make adaptation part of development and business planning processes

• Outcome 3.3: Private sector engagement in adaptation catalyzed

• Outcome 3.4: Adaptation finance increased