By: Shatha kalel
Iraq has been facing one of the most severe environmental crises in its modern history, represented by increasing drought and desertification. The decline in rainfall levels, rising temperatures, and the reduced flow of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers due to dams built in upstream countries, in addition to the mismanagement of water resources inside Iraq, have all contributed to the expansion of degraded lands and the loss of large agricultural areas. This issue is not merely environmental; it is directly affecting food security, economic stability, and social balance. Thousands of families have been forced to migrate from rural areas to cities in search of alternative livelihoods, which places heavy pressure on services, infrastructure, and increases social inequalities.
Environmental reports indicate that more than one third of Iraq’s land is currently affected by desertification, and the percentage is expected to rise as climate change continues and strategic long-term planning remains insufficient. The frequent dust storms that now occur almost daily in some regions, bringing health and economic impacts, are a direct result of the loss of vegetation cover and the absence of green protective belts. Overgrazing, the cutting of trees, and the shrinking of wetland areas such as the Iraqi Marshes have further accelerated this environmental decline.
To confront this crisis, the Iraqi government must adopt a clear water and agricultural policy based on rational water use, modern irrigation techniques instead of traditional flood irrigation, and the rehabilitation of irrigation networks to reduce waste. Additionally, large-scale afforestation projects are needed to establish green belts around cities and desert borders, and to revive the Marshes as an essential ecological system that helps maintain humidity and limit dust storms. These measures must be supported by strong environmental laws that prevent the destruction of vegetation, regulate land use, and support farmers in applying sustainable agricultural practices.
On the international level, Iraq is a member of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, which obligates countries to implement national strategies to protect soil and reduce land degradation. Through this agreement, Iraq can receive technical and financial support for environmental restoration projects. Although the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea does not address desertification directly, it provides legal grounds for protecting Iraq’s water rights and can support diplomatic efforts or international arbitration to secure fair water shares from the Tigris and Euphrates.
Desertification in Iraq is not the responsibility of a single ministry, but a national issue that requires cooperation between the Ministries of Environment, Agriculture, Water Resources, Foreign Affairs, along with universities and civil society organizations. Long-term planning and strong coordination are essential to prevent further deterioration.
Conclusion:
Desertification in Iraq is a complex crisis that extends beyond the environmental dimension to directly threaten national security. The solution requires a comprehensive policy based on sustainable water management, fair international cooperation, environmental law enforcement, and restoration of vegetation and wetlands. With serious governmental action and coordinated national and international efforts, Iraq can restore environmental balance and protect its land for future generations.
Economic Studies Unit / North America Office
Al-Rabetat Center for Research and Strategic Studies