By John Lee.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, have announced the launch of the National Strategy for the Protection and Improvement of the Environment in Iraq (2024-2030).
This strategy marks a critical milestone in Iraq's efforts to tackle environmental challenges and aligns with its national development goals.
In summary:
- National Strategy for Environmental Protection: The document outlines Iraq's national strategy for protecting and improving the environment, serving as the primary tool for addressing environmental issues within the framework of national development policies.
- Legislative Frameworks: The Ministry of Environment has developed laws and regulations for environmental protection and climate change to address current and future challenges.
- Assessment of Environmental Conditions: The strategy is based on an assessment of Iraq's current environmental state, using scientific reports and published data from various sectors.
- Environmental Challenges in Iraq: Iraq faces significant environmental pressures, including population growth, unsustainable resource use, water resource depletion (due to dam construction and waterway diversion by neighboring countries), and neglect of environmental considerations during development projects. Other challenges include land degradation, deforestation, overgrazing, poaching, and desertification.
- Strategy to Mitigate Pressures: Iraq aims to develop environmental protection capabilities by implementing comprehensive measures that reduce social, developmental, and environmental pressures, incorporating gender aspects where relevant.
- Participatory Approach: The strategy was developed through a participatory process involving multiple institutions and experts, led by the Ministry of Environment, which is responsible for coordinating national efforts related to environmental policies, legislation, and protection measures.
- Strategic Framework and Programs: The strategy includes a vision, mission, core values, and five strategic programs that cover technical, environmental, and governance aspects of environmental activities in Iraq. These programs ensure the integration of environmental protection measures across relevant sectors.
Full statement from UN Development Programme (UNDP):
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, proudly announce the launch of the National Strategy for the Protection and Improvement of the Environment in Iraq (2024-2030). This strategy marks a critical milestone in Iraq's efforts to tackle environmental challenges and aligns with its national development goals.
Developed through comprehensive assessments of Iraq's current environmental conditions, the strategy provides a roadmap to address pressing issues such as population growth, unsustainable resource use, and regional water management challenges. These factors have contributed to significant environmental degradation, including desertification, loss of biodiversity, and water resource depletion. The new strategy aims to mitigate these pressures and support vulnerable populations to enhance Iraq's social, developmental, and environmental resilience.
"This strategy has been devised in a way that reflects the high level of commitment of the Republic of Iraq and the official, civil, and local organizations it represents to the global agenda for sustainable development by working effectively within international fora and global agreements to achieve the required level of environmental protection, conservation of its components, and integration into development plans within the system of sustainable solutions." stated Engineer Nizar Amidi, Minister of Environment. "I extend my gratitude to UNDP and USAID for their financial, organizational, and technical support for preparing the strategy." added Eng. Amidi.
The strategy's development involved a collaborative process with national institutions, environmental experts, and civil society, under the leadership of the Ministry of Environment. Iraq is dedicated to strengthening its environmental protection capabilities by integrating sustainable practices across all sectors.
"UNDP Iraq is committed to supporting Iraq's climate and environment agenda, partnering closely with the Ministry of Environment to advance our shared goals. We are dedicated to ensuring Iraq's pathway towards sustainable and resilient environmental outcomes, and we are grateful for the crucial support from USAID in this endeavor. Their contribution is pivotal in helping Iraq achieve its climate change adaptation and mitigation targets," said Auke Lootsma, UNDP Iraq Resident Representative.
"USAID commends Iraq's advancement of environmental protection through this comprehensive strategy. It is an important milestone in addressing the environmental challenges that impact the health, livelihoods, and future of the Iraqi people. We are proud of our continued collaboration with the Government of Iraq and partnership with UNDP to foster sustainable development, conserve natural resources, and enhance the quality of life across the country," said Erin Mone-Marquez, Acting Mission Director of USAID Iraq.
The strategy will guide Iraq's environmental protection efforts over the next six years, ensuring that sustainability is prioritized in policy-making, legislation, and the implementation of key initiatives.
Click here to download the full document in English.
Click here to download the full document in Arabic.
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(Source: UNDP)
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