Hydro-politics of Water Resources in Iraq

Iraq relies in its water resources on the Tigris and Euphrates and their tributaries. It is located at the lower part of the catchment area of these rivers. The long-term average annual flow that enter Iraq is about 30 BCM from the Euphrates, 22.2 BCM from the Tigris, 24.78BCM from tributaries and 7BCM from side valleys between Iraq and Iran. Now, the flow of these rivers is decreasing due to climate change and hydrological projects established in the upper parts of the catchment. Precipitation will decrease 15-25% during this century and the flow of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers will be reduced by 29-73%. This will cause a grave depletion of ground water resources. Turkey is trying to build 22 dams and 19 hydropower stations. Iran built 12 dams, diverted the flow of some tributaries inside Iran, and blocked all the valleys that contributes water from its land to Iraq. The factors affecting the hydro politics within these basin are: Water scarcity, Climate change and Hydrological projects, population growth rate, Energy issues, Water mismanagement, Economic changes, Expansions of projects and technology, Political issues, International water laws and Public awareness. To solve the problem of water scarcity in Iraq they should do the following: A. Reach agreements with Riparian Parties B. Develop Long-term Strategy that should take care of rehabilitating of hydrological projects, Improving the efficiency of diversion and supply, Using of Nonconventional Water Resources, Irrigation modernization using suitable techniques, Developing a Public awareness program and establishing an agenda for training.ISBN för värdpublikation: 978-90-832612-1-8