Climate-related Conflict Dynamics – Water Scarcity in Ninewa
This advocacy brief explores the intersection of climate change, water scarcity, and conflict in Ninewa governorate, Iraq. Once considered Iraq’s agricultural heartland, Ninewa is now facing a severe water crisis driven by rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, damaged infrastructure, and weak water governance. These environmental stressors are compounded by the legacies of armed conflict, displacement, and socio-economic hardship—particularly in rural and post-conflict areas.
The brief outlines five core challenges:
Drought and reduced rainfall lowering surface water and agricultural viability.
Destroyed or decaying water infrastructure, leading to health and access issues.
Poor water management, with overuse and inequity between large and small-scale farmers.
Socio-economic strain, especially for poor households and women.
Policy gaps in regulation and enforcement, fueling mistrust between communities and authorities.
A case study from Sinjar illustrates how Community Peace Teams (CPTs) are promoting peaceful water-sharing, conducting awareness campaigns, and brokering local water disputes—like one between Safo and Taba villages—through nonviolent dialogue and inclusive participation.
The brief calls on national and international actors to:
Invest in conflict-sensitive water infrastructure,
Promote community-led water governance,
Enhance public awareness and equitable regulations, and Build trust through inclusive and collaborative water policy implementation.
It positions water not just as an environmental issue, but as a critical protection concern for peace and stability in Iraq.