UNDP: "Iraq as a Major Diplomatic Force"

[Wednesday 24th April marked] the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace, a day that celebrates the use of diplomacy as a language for governments to achieve peaceful resolutions and cooperation. This is particularly important today in the realm of water diplomacy.

Iraq's geographical position as a downstream country in the basin of the famous Tigris and Euphrates rivers places it in a vulnerable situation, influenced by upstream activities that happen outside of its boundaries, and some within, such as dam construction, irrigation, and pollution. These challenges, which are exacerbated by climate change, have made water diplomacy a critical area of focus for the Government of Iraq.

There is progress. During a recent visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to Baghdad, a 10-year agreement was signed on the management of water resources, guaranteeing Iraq its fair share, as stated by the Iraqi PM. Additionally, the parties committed to collaborate on joint water infrastructure projects.

In view of Iraq's downstream geographical location, negotiation, coordination, and management of transboundary water resources, are crucial. Especially as the region faces variables outside its direct control, such as the impact of climate change and population growth. Diplomatic efforts have been essential in mitigating the worst effects of water scarcity, despite the water crisis that the country is currently going through.

In a historic move in 2023, Iraq became the first Arab country to join the UN Water Convention, highlighting its commitment to managing its water resources more effectively and sustainably. This milestone, which the UNDP helped facilitate, reflects the government's dedication to the water issue, which operates on multiple levels locally and regionally.

UNDP's support to Iraq has been pivotal in enhancing its capacity to negotiate and secure its fair share of water flowing through its historic rivers. The ultimate aim is to ensure sustainable transboundary water management serves as one of the important foundations for lasting peace and development in the region.

Under the Catalytic climate action in Iraq (2022-2024), funded by the United Kingdom and Canada, UNDP has supported the Government of Iraq in its transboundary water diplomacy to help improve Iraq's capacity in this field. This support came in the shape of science and data, such as the design of a comprehensive water analysis regarding the situation in Tigris-Euphrates basin by UNDP and Geneva Water Hub. This analysis contributes to strengthening regional cooperation on water arrangements in the shared basin. Additionally, UNDP provided policy recommendations and equipped the national negotiation team with comprehensive trainings on legal frameworks, international water law, and negotiation techniques.

In just a few days, the fourth edition of the Baghdad International Water Conference will convened. This annual event attracts the highest levels of political and diplomatic representation from neighboring countries and from around the world, underscoring the importance of transboundary water management and diplomacy.

Given the vast water crisis the country is currently experiencing, it is clear that Iraq will continue to expand and build on its leading role in water diplomacy and transboundary water management and cooperation.