Minister Al-Badrani Opens 'Strategic Climate Challenges' Conference

His Excellency Dr. Ahmed Fakkak Al-Badrani, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities, inaugurated the third session of the “Strategic Climate Culture and Challenges” conference, organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment’s Climate Change Directorate and other key institutions. In his speech, Al-Badrani stressed the importance of environmental awareness and education, noting that climate change is a global crisis impacting every corner of the planet.

Iraq is among the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and the increasing scarcity of water resources have severely impacted agriculture, the livelihoods of millions, and the overall stability of the nation. 

The event, held in the Mohammed Ridha Al-Shabibi Hall, was attended by political and academic leaders, including the Secretary-General of the Parliament, Mr. Safwan Bashir Younis, and several parliament members. Al-Badrani emphasised the complex and cross-border nature of climate change, highlighting the urgent need for a multifaceted approach to mitigate its effects.

Dr. Muntasser Al-Hasnawi, Director-General of the Conference Palace Directorate, noted that the conference followed a series of workshops, seminars, and exhibitions aimed at raising awareness about environmental issues, including biodiversity loss and forced adaptation to climate impacts.

On the sidelines of the conference, Al-Badrani inaugurated the art exhibition “The Marshes: A Long Journey of Pain” by artist Siham Mohammed Zahir, which highlighted the drying of Iraq’s marshes and the devastation it has caused to local communities. The exhibition captured the environmental crisis through a blend of vivid colours, offering hope for the restoration of these vital ecosystems.

Key topics discussed at the conference included the role of official committees in climate strategy, the involvement of civil society organisations in raising awareness, and the media’s role in promoting environmental education. Additionally, the national initiative to reduce emissions was a central focus of discussions aimed at developing long-term solutions for Iraq’s climate challenges.

Source: Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities