In 2025, Iraq remained in a fragile post-crisis recovery phase, marked by political uncertainty, economic pressures and the growing impact of climate change. Prolonged drought and severe water scarcity continued to undermine agricultural production, reduce food availability and raise prices, limiting access to nutritious diets. Persistent displacement further strained already fragile public services and livelihood opportunities. These factors combined to increase the vulnerability of many households struggling to re-establish their livelihoods and meet their basic needs.

In 2025, Action Against Hunger worked in multiple governorates, supporting farmers, small businesses, women and youth to adapt to climate change through climate-resilient agriculture support, improved water management, inclusive economic opportunities and stronger community-led climate governance.

To strengthen community resilience, we helped farmers adopt sustainable, drought-tolerant practices and composting and improved soil fertility methods. Investments in greenhouses, water-efficient irrigation systems, solar pumps and the conversion of open canals into closed systems helped safeguard scarce water resources and stabilised agricultural production. At the same time, we supported the local economy by helping small agrifood businesses grow through financial and technical assistance, strengthening value chains and encouraging the consumption of local products.

A strong emphasis was placed on gender equality and social inclusion. The programme created opportunities for women and young people by providing tailored technical and entrepreneurial training and supporting their economic initiatives. This approach was informed by research on the differing impacts of climate change on women and men, as well as labour market assessments that highlighted gender barriers in rural economies and the need for more equitable access to resources, employment and decision-making.

Finally, the programme reinforced local governance by helping communities establish climate action committees, promoting women’s leadership in governance spaces and conducting awareness and advocacy activities on climate resilience and sustainable resource management.

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