The state border of the Russian Federation is crossed by a large number of water bodies, including more than a dozen large and medium-sized rivers, which are vital both for Russia and for the states bordering it. The joint use of transboundary water bodies requires a unified approach that allows the use of water resources while minimizing the risks of environmental degradation. In particular, mechanisms are needed to regulate a uniform assessment of the degree of pollution of water bodies, classification of water quality, an open system for monitoring and preventing emergencies, joint conservation and restoration of ecosystems of transboundary water bodies.