Media’s Role on Iraq’s Climate Crisis Discussed at Kurdish Cultural Seminar

As Iraq faces an escalating climate crisis, the Kurdish House of Culture and Publishing recently hosted a seminar titled “Media and Climate Change: Responsibilities and Challenges.” The event featured the participation of Mr. Alaa Abdullah, the Kurdish House’s representative in the Climate Change Team at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, as well as environmental researcher and activist Dr. Farah Saber.

Iraq is currently grappling with severe environmental challenges, including rising temperatures, water scarcity, and increasing pollution, all of which threaten the livelihoods and health of its citizens. During the seminar, Dr. Saber delivered an insightful presentation on the impact of climate change and the various types of environmental pollutants contributing to this crisis. She emphasised the crucial role of the media in educating the public about these environmental risks, underlining the importance of providing accurate information. Saber highlighted that the media’s involvement in climate issues is not driven by profit but by a commitment to public service, despite the challenges this sector faces in raising awareness.

Dr. Saber pointed out the challenges at the governmental level, particularly the lack of sufficient material and moral resources to effectively address climate issues. She proposed several solutions, including the need to train media professionals specialising in climate and environmental topics. According to her, these professionals should work based on educational principles that encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly habits and the spread of a conservationist culture among younger generations. Additionally, she stressed the potential of social media as a powerful tool to promote environmental awareness, calling for well-planned government initiatives and programs that draw on successful international experiences focused on sustainable human-environment interactions.

Mr. Abdullah echoed these sentiments, stating that fostering a culture of environmental awareness is a shared societal responsibility. He noted that the Ministry of Culture, through its Climate Change Team led by Dr. Montaser Al-Hasnawi, is committed to enhancing public understanding of climate issues. This commitment is demonstrated through the organisation of seminars, workshops, participation in international conferences, and other related activities. Abdullah concluded by reaffirming the significant role of the media in educating the Iraqi public about climate change and its long-term impacts.

Source: Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities