From scarcity to flooding: governance gaps in Iraq’s water management

This paper discusses Iraq’s water management challenges, focusing on the contradiction between droughts in the summer and floods in the winter. While climate change contributes to these issues, the paper argues that poor water resource management, lack of long-term planning and inadequate infrastructure are key causes. Iraq’s semi-arid climate, upstream water policies, pollution and internal mismanagement worsen the situation. The paper highlights the role of corruption and inexpert management, particularly following a flood in Chamchamal in December 2025. Unauthorized construction obstructed natural drainage, intensifying flood’s impact. The paper recommends employing qualified experts, improving infrastructure, and utilizing advanced flood prediction technologies.