A Scientific Symposium Discusses Optimal Water Resources Management in light of Scarcity and Climate Change

2026-03-31

Under the patronage of Professor Dr. Mushtak Talib Al-Neda, President of University of Anbar, the Upper Euphrates Center for Sustainable Development Research at University of Anbar organized a specialized scientific symposium entitled “Optimal Water Resources Management in Conditions of Water Scarcity,” with broad participation from stakeholders in the Iraqi water sector. The symposium was held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, in the Martyrs' Hall at the university.

The symposium was attended by representatives from the National Center for Water Resources Management, the Anbar Water Resources Directorate, and the administrations of vital water facilities, represented by Fallujah Dam, the Ramadi Dam, and the Haditha Dam. Academic participation also included representatives from the Department of Dams and Water Resources Engineering at the College of Engineering and the Department of Geography at the College of Education for Humanities.

This symposium comes in light of the growing challenges facing Iraq due to water scarcity and the repercussions of climate change, coinciding with the recent wave of rain and floods that affected several regions of the country after consecutive seasons of drought. This situation presents a complex reality that necessitates integrated and balanced water resource management.

The symposium's themes focused on strengthening integration between academic institutions and executive bodies, and activating scientific partnerships in developing strategic plans for water resource management. This aims to ensure effective response to both water scarcity and flooding challenges. Participants also discussed mechanisms for developing hydrological monitoring systems, utilizing modern numerical models for flood forecasting and water storage management, as well as analyzing risks associated with climate variability.

In his speech, the university president emphasized the pivotal role of universities and their research centers in supporting decision-makers with accurate scientific data and practical solutions. He noted that the current phase requires unifying national efforts and adopting flexible water policies that are adaptable to climate change. In this context, it was announced that Anbar University intends to organize an international conference specializing in water issues, under the auspices of the Upper Euphrates Center for Sustainable Development Research, with the participation of various departments within the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and the Ministry of Water Resources. Decision-makers in Iraq and ambassadors from countries sharing the Tigris and Euphrates river basins will be invited to discuss avenues for regional cooperation and enhancing water security.

The symposium concluded with a number of recommendations, most notably the necessity of adopting integrated water resources management, promoting the use of modern technologies in monitoring and planning, developing shared databases, and supporting applied research that contributes to achieving water sustainability in Iraq and addressing future challenges efficiently and flexibly.

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