Water Diplomacy Between Türkiye and Iraq: Pathways, Challenges, and Future Prospects

Abstract

Systematic analyses of transboundary water relations in the Euphrates-Tigris basin reveal that key riparian states—Türkiye, Syria, and Iraq—favor water diplomacy over conflict. Despite political instability, including the Syrian civil war, Türkiye and Iraq have re-engaged in formal and informal water diplomacy mechanisms. This paper argues that water diplomacy in this region will likely continue to adapt to the evolving dynamics of conflict impacting transboundary water relations. Notably, cooperation on water issues between Türkiye and Iraq is closely linked with their security collaboration, whose success will likely depend on socioeconomic developments that support fair and sustainable water use across the region. The paper further emphasizes the need to prioritize the swift implementation of existing agreements that address future water availability and demand, particularly in the context of climate change.

Systematic analyses of transboundary water relations in the Euphrates-Tigris basin reveal that key riparian states—Türkiye, Syria, and Iraq—favor water diplomacy over conflict. Despite political instability, including the Syrian civil war, Türkiye and Iraq have re-engaged in formal and informal water diplomacy mechanisms. This paper argues that water diplomacy in this region will likely continue to adapt to the evolving dynamics of conflict impacting transboundary water relations. Notably, cooperation on water issues between Türkiye and Iraq is closely linked with their security collaboration, whose success will likely depend on socioeconomic developments that support fair and sustainable water use across the region. The paper further emphasizes the need to prioritize the swift implementation of existing agreements that address future water availability and demand, particularly in the context of climate change. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.