Beyond Dam Building: Addressing Water Scarcity in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq Under Climate Change

Abstract

Climate change is among the most significant global challenges affecting countries across the Middle East, particularly Iraq. Its impacts have contributed to declining rainfall levels and increased precipitation variability, intensifying existing water scarcity challenges. In response, policymakers in Iraq continue to face difficulties in developing sustainable approaches to water resource management, with many interventions focusing primarily on addressing immediate water shortages rather than underlying systemic challenges. This policy commentary draws on existing literature, regional reports, and observations related to water governance and resource management challenges in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI). It examines one of the most widely adopted yet insufficient policy responses to water scarcity in the region: the continued construction of dams. Furthermore, the commentary discusses alternative sustainable strategies that could contribute to improving water security and strengthening long‐term water management in the KRI.