Foreword
The MENA region faces serious climate challenges. Human activities are largely to blame for rising climate issues. These include extreme weather, dwindling resources, and ongoing environmental damage. As these climate pressures grow, they are likely to worsen existing conflicts and instability. The cycle continues as conflict brings more environmental harm, creating a troubling situation. Unfortunately, environmental concerns often take a back seat in peacebuilding efforts.
Today, the region is deeply affected by conflict and war. The connection between climate and conflict is critical in the Middle East and North Africa. Ongoing security issues and rapidly changing conditions have made it necessary to reconsider some aspects of this publication, including a chapter on Lebanon. Nonetheless, the remaining analyses focus on the current circumstances across the region.
This publication is a joint effort by the Arab Reform Initiative and the Robert Bosch Stiftung, part of our program “Conflict, Climate Change and Environment in the Middle East,” launched in 2021. Our goal is to create spaces for dialogue and expertise sharing among local, national, and regional actors, as well as scholars from MENA. By connecting diverse stakeholders, we aim to support local voices affected by conflict and environmental changes. Due to unpredictable events, some chapters may already feel outdated, highlighting the region’s instability.
We want to thank everyone who contributed, especially Hussam Hussein, Sammy Kayed, and Tobias Zumbraegel, for their invaluable work. A special shoutout goes to Zaki Boulos for his keen editorial guidance, and to all local stakeholders who shared their insights, enriching this publication.
This work serves as both a resource and a rallying cry, urging collaboration on the complex ties between climate, conflict, and environment in the MENA region. We look forward to ongoing efforts with all committed to building resilience and promoting sustainable peace.
Beirut/Berlin/Paris/Stuttgart, March 2025
Sarine Karajerjian – Arab Reform Initiative
Irene Weinz – Robert Bosch Stiftung
Table of Contents
Introduction: Connecting Local Processes, Conflict, and Environmental Issues in MENA – Sammy Kayed, Tobias Zumbraegel, Hussam Hussein
Iraq: Climate Change and Community Insights in Iraq’s Nineveh Province – Shivan Fazil
Jordan: Community Approaches in the Jordanian Water Sector – Hussam Hussein
Libya: Climate Disasters and Conflict in Libya – Asma Khalifa
Palestine: Gaza’s Agricultural Lands: Environmental Impact – Abeer Butmeh
Sudan: Participatory Approaches in Sudan: Case Studies – Abdalftah Hamed Ali
Syria: Agriculture, Conflict, and Environmental Needs in Syria – Sarine Karajerjian
Yemen: Local Farming and Water Management in Yemen – Ahmed Al-wadaey
Conclusion: Addressing the Climate-Conflict Connection: The Role of Local Participation and Innovation in MENA – Sammy Kayed, Tobias Zumbraegel, Hussam Hussein
The views expressed in this paper reflect the authors’ opinions and do not necessarily represent those of the Arab Reform Initiative, its staff, or board.
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