Water Scarcity in the Middle East: A Growing Crisis with Local Impacts

SYSyrian Arab Republic|

A recent analysis reveals that water scarcity is the most pressing threat to the Middle East, where over 60% of the population resides in areas with significant water stress. According to the World Resource Institute, 14 of the 33 countries predicted to face high water stress by 2040 are in the region. This crisis has been linked to social and political unrest, particularly in Syria, where access to water has driven migration to urban centers and exacerbated tensions against the regime.

Reza Sohrabi, a Ph.D. candidate at Carleton University, highlights that while water scarcity is often portrayed as a catalyst for inter-state conflict, recent evidence suggests that localized impacts are more critical. Researchers like Selby and Fröhlich emphasize the need to focus on how water scarcity disrupts local economies and community well-being, rather than framing it solely as a cause of wars between nations.

Water dependency ratios are alarmingly high, with Iraq and Syria relying on external resources for over 60% of their water needs. Past cooperation over transboundary water resources indicates a potential for constructive dialogue rather than conflict, suggesting that addressing water scarcity effectively involves local management and regional partnerships.

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