Iraq is ranked by the United Nations as one of the five countries most vulnerable to climate change. Over the next thirty years, escalating heatwaves, water scarcity, and dust storms are projected to drive significant displacement and profound public health consequences. These interconnected challenges demand urgent, evidence-based action from the Iraqi Federal Government and the Kurdistan Regional Government to plan for long-term effects.
In response, the Institute of Regional and International Studies (IRIS) is partnering with Center for Humanitarian Health at the Johns Hopkins University on a research initiative focusing on the northern central region of Iraq. This case study investigates how climate change intersects with health, displacement, and conflict dynamics, aiming to improve predictive models for population shifts and document strategies to enhance health system preparedness in expanding urban areas.
The study’s significance lies in its evidence-based approach to identifying the specific needs of vulnerable populations. By exploring how health facilities can adapt to evolving needs in a conflict-sensitive manner, the project empowers authorities to develop strategic responses and strengthen community resilience. Ultimately, this collaboration seeks to ensure that Iraqi health services are sustainable and equipped to meet the challenges of a changing climate and a shifting demographic landscape.
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