Iraq at COP29: Advancing climate action and resilience in times of urgency

Climate change is not a distant problem for Iraq; it’s a present-day reality. Rural communities grapple with losing agricultural productivity, urban areas endure intense heatwaves, and resource scarcity risks fueling social tension and migration.  These changes threaten health, livelihoods and the ability to put food on the table. With more than 90% of Iraq's water resources originating outside its borders, and demand being far greater than supply, Iraq faces growing pressure to manage its water resources sustainably.

Iraq’s presence at COP29

Iraq is at the forefront of the global climate crisis. At COP29, Iraq’s voice was loud and clear: climate change is here, and the world needs to act. The Iraqi delegation pushed for greater international support, including more funding, developing local capacities and transferring technology to tackle the crisis. Iraq’s participation highlights its commitment to fulfilling its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), which include plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to climate impacts, and secure the necessary finance. Iraq is also focused on investing in clean energy and developing sustainable solutions to grow its economy while protecting the environment.

A key highlight of Iraq’s presence at COP29 was the Iraqi Mesopotamia Pavilion, which hosted three side events co-organised by the Iraqi Ministry of Environment and GIZ Iraq. Through the 'Mesopotamia Pavillion' Iraq showcased its commitment to tackling climate change, including discussions on Iraq’s renewable energy potential, climate-resilient water infrastructure, and the role of data in strengthening policy-making.

GIZ's commitment to mitigating climate change

GIZ works alongside Iraq to support tackling climate change and build resilience in various sectors. Here’s how:

• Transitioning to renewable energy: Iraq has enormous potential for solar power, and GIZ is helping unlock it. GIZ has supported setting up three renewable energy training centres in Iraq. GIZ has equipped these centres, built the capacities of trainers, and conducted professional trainings on installing and maintaining solar panels. GIZ has also collaborated with small and medium sized businesses to assess renewable energy needs and solutions. This way, we at GIZ, support developing the private sector and creating jobs in the field of renewable energy, especially related to photovoltaics. Moreover, we are conducting studies on Green Finance for investments in this sector.
• Improving public services: GIZ is working with local governments to improve public services and make them more climate-resilient. We support water treatment facilities create plans for safe water despite climate challenges and train staff to manage these challenges. We also support local governments in developing climate plans that include input from citizen, making sure that services address climate impacts and meet the needs of the community.
• Linking climate and security: Climate change can worsen existing risks and fuel conflicts. GIZ supports the Iraqi Government address the challenges by analysing potential conflict hotspots and planning proactive, sustainable responses. On local level, we are developing early warning systems to identify, categorise and address conflicts, including those induced by climate change, early on and strengthen the resilience of local communities. In discussions between citizens and the Government, we support local communities understand the environmental risks caused by climate change, such as its impact on nature and how to adapt these changes.
• Strengthening agricultural food systems: Farming is the backbone of many communities, but it is under threat from extreme weather and water shortages. GIZ is working with farmers to introduce smarter, more sustainable ways of growing food. We also make it easier for them to access financing, enabling them to invest in upgrading and climate-proofing their businesses. Additionally, we collaborate with local governments to reduce water loss by improving and maintaining Iraq’s vast irrigation channels. This is done by making use of digital tools, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing.

Looking ahead

COP29 demonstrated the power of international cooperation.  At GIZ, we remain committed to supporting Iraq in its journey toward a climate-resilient future. By fostering collaboration between government institutions, private stakeholders and local communities, we aim to enable Iraq to navigate the complexities of climate change. Our goal: a thriving Iraq—for its people and environment.