Iraq's Water Crisis: A Catalyst for Change

Iraq's water crisis, a microcosm of the interconnected challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, is being transformed into a powerful catalyst for accelerating progress towards multiple SDGs [Sustainable Development Goals].

The UN in Iraq, collaborating with local and international partners, is strategically championing sustainable transboundary water management by fostering regional cooperation and ensuring equitable water use, crucial for both stability and prosperity, through integrated initiatives by different UN agencies – with an impact on all the Goals.

For example, UN agencies like UNESCO and FAO are partnering together in this work to enhance water governance improving water use efficiency by merging traditional wisdom with modern technology. This empowers farmers to optimize water consumption, improving not only water management but also boosting agricultural resilience and contributing to a more sustainable food system. Interventions like the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) initiative in Sinjar to improve water access and UNICEF's desalination systems in Ninewa, provide not only safe and accessible water to vulnerable communities; these efforts directly improve livelihoods, affecting health and prosperity.

The UNCT’s proactive engagement extends to shaping the future of water management in Iraq. The National Water Policy Dialogue serves as a platform for fostering inclusive discussions, learning from international best practices, and crafting comprehensive water policy frameworks. This ensures that water management remains a top priority in the upcoming UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2025-2029), a roadmap agreed with the Government for sustainable development.

Behavior changes and awareness raising are key measures to address Iraq’s water crisis, which is also a water pollution crisis, subsequently the Resident Coordinator jointly with the Minister of Water Resources will launch a joint UN-Government Water Campaign in July 2024 to raise awareness among Iraqi citizens about the severe water crisis affecting the nation and to highlight the collective and individual responsibilities in addressing it.

By tackling the water crisis, Iraq is not only accelerating progress towards clean water and sanitation, but also creating a ripple effect across multiple SDGs, including strengthening climate action, protecting biodiversity, and fostering a more resilient and equitable future for all.

Learn more :  https://un-dco.org/stories/accelerating-sdgs-transformation-action