Conflict, environmental destruction and climate change: a tragedy in Iraq that demands action.

According to the United Nations (UN), climate change refers to ‘long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns due to natural and human activities’ (UN 2022b). Countries in conflict have neither the capacity nor the political will to deal with climate change and its consequences. Iraq, one of the most vulnerable states to suffer the effects of climate change is a case in point. Decades of conflict, political upheavals and weak governance have destroyed the country’s infrastructure and environment. Security and political challenges are more urgent priorities for local authorities than dealing with the risks and consequences from environment destruction and climate change in the longer term. The recent call by the United States (US) top diplomat to the Iraqi government for swift actions by the government while disregarding the inability and lack of political will to address climate change is worthy of note (Shafaq News 2022). Based on the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-Gain) Index, which explores countries’ vulnerability to climate change and their resilience, Iraq has a high vulnerability score and low resiliency that increases the likelihood/risk for more future conflict and instability (Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative 2022). According to the sixth Global Environment Outlook, GEO-6, published by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), Iraq is classified as the fifth most vulnerable country in the world to suffer decreased water and food availability and extreme temperatures; these factors will negatively influence food and water security, and social and health security in Iraq (UN Environment 2019). In a recent report, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) indicated that without preparation and planning to mitigate the effects of climate change, Iraqis may be forced to relocate in order to survive (IOM) 2022).