FS 3.182: Tackling Crises and Building Resilience for a Sustainable HKH Region

The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region, spanning 3,500 km across eight countries, is vital for global and regional environmental and socio-economic systems. As the source of ten major Asian river systems, it provides water and ecosystem services to 240 million people within the region and 1.9 billion downstream – nearly a quarter of the global population. However, the HKH faces significant challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, natural disasters, and pollution, all of which threaten its ecosystems and the livelihoods of millions. This focused session, convened by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and Centre for Mountain Futures of Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China, invites contributions that address multi-faceted challenges and explores opportunities for sustainable solutions for the region by emphasizing environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and international cooperation. The session aims to amplify voices from the HKH region on a global platform while fostering knowledge exchange among policymakers, middle and early career scientists, local stakeholders, and international experts. It will facilitate inclusive participation, engaging diverse groups such as women, youth, and indigenous peoples, to ensure equitable contributions toward sustainable mountain development. Through dialogue and collaboration, the session seeks to co-create a shared vision for the sustainable development of the HKH, delivering benefits to both the region and the global community.