Opening Remarks by Mr. Ghulam Isaczai DSRSG/Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq 5th Baghdad International Water Conference

Your Excellency, Prime Minster Mohammed Shia Al Sudani 

Your Excellency, Dr. Aun Dhyaib Abdullah,

Distinguished Guests, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a great honor to join you today at the 5th Baghdad International Water Conference, a vital platform that brings together national leaders, regional experts, and international partners to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time: water security.

Today, we gather under the theme “Water and Technology: Partnership for Development” - a timely and urgent call to action. Iraq continues to face severe water scarcity, driven not only by climate change but also by water management issues, legacy infrastructure, and resource-intensive practices. 

The consequences are far-reaching: from reduced agricultural productivity and internal displacement to increased fragility in already vulnerable communities. Water scarcity, quality, and security have become among the most critical challenges facing the country - threatening not only human consumption and economic development but also the ecosystems and the environment. 

Yet, amidst these challenges, there is also opportunity.

The Government of Iraq has taken commendable steps - from launching the National Water Dialogue to hosting this yearly conference in addition to the cooperation efforts between the UN and Government of Iraq Water task forces. 

Iraq’s accession to the UN Water Convention in 2023 marked a historic milestone, making it the first Arab country to do so. This progressive step signals Iraq’s commitment to regional cooperation and sustainable water governance.

The United Nations stands firmly with Iraq on this vital journey. Through the dedicated efforts of UN agencies together with national partners, we are supporting Iraq in modernizing irrigation and introducing water-saving technologies; rehabilitating marshlands and promoting eco-tourism; developing early warning systems; advancing climate-smart agriculture; and strengthening Iraq’s capacity for transboundary water negotiations.

As we work with the Government to finalize the new United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, we are placing climate action and environmental sustainability at the very heart of our shared vision. 

The UNSDCF calls for a comprehensive and integrated approach to water resource management - one that ensures long-term water security, prevents future displacement, and supports sustainable development for all Iraqis. 

These efforts are fully aligned with Iraq’s National Adaptation Plan and its climate commitments, and with the Sustainable Development Goals - especially SDG 6 on clean water and sanitation.

As we look ahead, allow me to share three key areas where strong government leadership - through policy reform, strategic investment, and regional cooperation - will be critical to advancing sustainable water management in Iraq:

1. Strengthen Institutional Coordination and Legal Reform: We urge the Government to reinforce national water governance by formalizing inter-ministerial coordination under the National Water Dialogue and accelerating legal reforms that promote shared accountability and ensure equitable access to water, particularly for women and vulnerable communities.
2. Invest in Scalable, Climate-Resilient Water Solutions: Diversifying water sources through investments in modern irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and safe wastewater reuse will be critical. Scaling up climate-resilient technologies will help Iraq adapt to growing water stress, reduce losses, and improve water use efficiency across sectors.
3. Champion Regional and Cross-Border Cooperation: Water knows no borders. Iraq’s continued engagement with its neighbors - supported by intergovernmental platforms such as the Water Convention - will be essential to secure long-term water security. The UN stands ready to support Iraq in its efforts to ensure fair and sustainable water-sharing.

In closing, I commend the Ministry of Water Resources and all partners for their leadership and vision. The UN remains a committed partner in your efforts to ensure that water becomes a source of economic opportunities, prosperity, and sustainability for all Iraqis.

Thank you.