Understanding Iraq’s Climate Responsibilities: A New Perspective
Iraq faces serious environmental challenges, especially as climate change impacts its people. A recent advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) sheds light on Iraq’s legal duties regarding climate action. This ruling emphasizes not just environmental issues, but human rights as well.
The London School of Economics (LSE) reported that rural women in Iraq are particularly vulnerable. They often face displacement and resource shortages due to climate change. This means they deal with more extreme hardships, making it hard for them to advocate for their rights effectively.
The ICJ’s ruling in July 2025 pointed out that countries have a responsibility to limit greenhouse gas emissions. If they fail to do so, they could face legal consequences. This ruling is a reminder that environmental issues are also legal challenges, tied closely to human rights.
In Iraq, the existing legal framework struggles to deal with these challenges. Dr. Sally Thin, an expert in international law, noted that treaties like the Paris Agreement often have vague obligations that are tough to enforce. Iraq joined this agreement in 2021 and submitted a commitment to reduce emissions. However, translating this commitment into action remains problematic.
Despite being part of important human rights treaties, such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), Iraq hasn’t accepted all protocols that would allow individuals to bring complaints to the United Nations. This limits the power of citizens to seek justice for climate-related issues.
Interestingly, some people view international laws as foreign impositions. This perspective can undermine rights claims in Iraq, creating barriers for advocates who need to focus on local realities and issues.
On a positive note, there are emerging legal trends, like corporate accountability cases against fossil fuel companies. Although these cases are challenging, they could help address environmental damage caused by large corporations.
Furthermore, Iraq is working on stronger environmental policies. The National Strategy for the Protection and Improvement of the Environment (2024-2030) aims to tackle biodiversity loss, desertification, and water management. This roadmap, developed with the UN Development Programme (UNDP), reflects a commitment to improving the environmental situation.
The ICJ ruling not only clarifies legal responsibilities but also brings urgency to these national efforts. It raises awareness that failures to meet climate obligations could lead to accountability under human rights law. For Iraqi women, who are facing the direct consequences of climate change, this legal framework can offer a glimmer of hope.
While the path ahead is complex, it underscores the importance of centering discussions around the experiences of those most affected. Combining legal action with community engagement is essential. Ultimately, addressing climate change in Iraq will require cooperation across many levels—legal, political, and social—to ensure that the voices of the most vulnerable populations are heard and acted upon.
For more information, you can explore the original report by the London School of Economics.
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LSE, Environmental Challenges, Gender equality
