Iraq, historically known as the land of the two rivers, is facing severe impacts from climate change that threaten its agricultural productivity and overall security. Rising temperatures and decreasing rainfall have resulted in a 30-40% decrease in output from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers over the past 40 years. In 2021, Iraq experienced its second driest season in four decades, with projections indicating a potential water deficit of up to 10 billion cubic meters by 2035 [2a9511d2].
The agricultural sector has been particularly hard hit, with productivity dropping by nearly 50% in 2022, forcing many farmers to abandon their land. Over 39% of Iraq's land is now affected by soil degradation, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the agricultural community [2a9511d2]. The health risks associated with climate change are also alarming, as extreme heat has led to temperatures exceeding 120°F, while the number of dust storms has surged to 270 annually, contributing to increased respiratory illnesses among the population [2a9511d2].
The humanitarian impact is significant, with water scarcity displacing approximately 1.2 million Iraqis who now live in informal settlements. This displacement is linked to rising migration patterns, particularly towards Europe, as individuals seek better living conditions [2a9511d2]. In response to these challenges, Iraq's government is implementing climate-smart agriculture initiatives aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change on food security. However, experts emphasize that international collaboration is essential to effectively address climate-induced migration and develop sustainable solutions [2a9511d2]. Iraq has the potential to serve as a laboratory for climate change solutions, showcasing the need for innovative approaches to tackle the intertwined issues of climate, security, and agriculture [2a9511d2].
