The Republic of Iraq comprises of mountainous regions, steppe climates between the mountainous northeast and south, and arid climates for the remaining 70% of the country with annual rainfall of 50-200mm. Over the 1971–2009 period, annual rainfall began decreasing steadily while temperatures increased. These changing conditions have caused more frequent dust storms in Baghdad which are now predicted to worsen. Other predicted changes include increased temperatures of 2°C by 2050, a decline of annual rainfall by 9% by 2050 with a severe reduction of 17% expected from December to February, and changes in rainfall intensity causing more droughts periods and intense rainfall events.3
Iraq has been identified as the fifth-most vulnerable country to climate change due to rising temperatures, insufficient precipitation, intense droughts and sandstorms, desertification, and flooding. Additionally, water policies in neighbouring countries have limited key water sources amid population growth and inefficient water use, which has propelled an even greater demand for water. Other impacts include rising temperatures and heatwaves, which have led to frequent and more intense heatwaves. Climate projections suggest a rise in average temperatures will continue to exacerbate water scarcity, desertification, and will heavily impact agriculture. Rising temperatures also pose significant health risks and amplifies water and food security. Desertification and land degradation continue to be issues Iraq grapples with as it impacts arable land and ecosystems. It also leads to unchecked deforestation, improper land use, and droughts which all contribute to soil fertility conditions. This threatens agricultural productivity, as well as biodiversity and livelihoods of communities who rely on the land for food and water security. As mentioned, water scarcity and dwindling resources are rising issues in Iraq. Iraq's two major rivers, Tigris and Euphrates, have long served as lifelines for communities and are now under threat due to reduced water flow, upstream dam construction, and shifting precipitation patterns thus impacting the agriculture sector and the economy. Iraq experiences frequent and intense weather events that disrupt infrastructure, displace communities, and leaves a strain on the country’s ability to respond quickly and effectively. Climate change also poses a threat to Iraq’s unique biodiversity and ecosystems which are being impacted by changing temperature and precipitation patterns. Climate change has resulted in socio-economic challenges which are major causes of concern from a humanitarian and security standpoint. Climate change impacts have resulted in displacement, conflict over resources, and security risks. It is imperative that vulnerabilities are addressed to work towards a more stable and sustainable Iraq.4 5
In September 2020, the Government of Iraq, in partnership with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), launched a National Adaptation Plan (NAP) to build resilience and adapt to the impacts of climate change. The NAP aims to reduce vulnerability through strategic planning and being informed by future climate projections. The NAP highlights utilizing international, and national platforms to catalyze finance for Iraq to meet its commitments and advocates for holistic climate migration being a priority in policy discussions, amongst many other adaptation measures. The Government of Iraq recognizes the need for the integration of SDGs within national policy and planning structures as well. Several national institutional documents have been prepared or are currently in development to reflect some SDGs including:
- The National Strategy for Environmental Protection and Improvement (2024-2030)
- The Iraqi Climate Vision 2030
- The strategic study of water and land resources in Iraq (SWLRI)
- Solid Waste Master Plan (MMPW)
- The National Strategy for Environmental Protection and Improvement in the Republic of Iraq (2024-2030)
- Iraq – Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) report for mitigation and adaptation 2022
- Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions (NAMA) Strategy
- And more
There is now a heavy emphasis on social inclusion and gender equality as a climate change mitigation measure, investing in adaptation and mitigation technology opportunities, and forming a more green and resilient economy. By establishing the ICRN, people from different sectors can come together to one place to work towards climate change resiliency against current and emerging climate change impacts, within their own practice and as a collective for all of Iraq.6