In a groundbreaking move, the Kurdistan Region of Iraq has joined UN’s Mountain Partnership, positioning itself at the forefront of global environmental conservation and community resilience.
On International Mountain Day, December 11, 2024, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) officially announced its membership in this prestigious alliance, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainable development and climate action.
For the Kurds, mountains are more than just geographical features – they are the very backbone of their identity. As the popular saying in the Kurdish community goes, “Kurds have no friends but the mountains,” highlighting the deep cultural connection between the people and their rugged terrain.
Stretching to an impressive 3,611 meters above sea level, Kurdistan’s mountainous landscape is not just breathtaking but strategically crucial. The region’s diverse topography and rich water resources make it a potential powerhouse for agriculture and tourism.
Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman, Senior Advisor to KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani for Foreign Affairs and Climate Change, emphasized the critical nature of this partnership. “Our mountains are integral to our identity, culture, and heritage,” she stated. “Climate change threatens them and their communities. We are committed to their protection and sustainable development.”
The Mountain Partnership, established in 2002, brings together governments and organizations worldwide to address environmental challenges in mountainous regions. By 2030, the alliance aims to:
Kurdistan cares about climate
The Kurdistan Region has already been making waves on the international stage in addressing climate change and environmental sustainability. At the COP29 conference in Azerbaijan in November, the Kurdish delegation participated in crucial discussions about mountain glaciers, the impact of climate change, and the Paris Agreement’s temperature goals.
Mountains are not just scenic landscapes – they are critical ecosystems. They not only cover 27% of our planet's land and sustain 15% of the global population, but also supply a substantial 60-80% of the world's freshwater, which is crucial for agriculture, energy production, and human existence. Moreover, mountains harbor half of the world’s biodiversity hotspots; in Kurdistan, they are home to unique species like snow leopards and alpine flowers.
By tapping into youth participation and innovative solutions like smart agriculture and advanced technologies, the Kurdistan Region is positioning itself as a model for mountain community resilience.
As global temperatures rise and environmental challenges mount, initiatives like the Mountain Partnership offer a beacon of hope, proving that local action can drive global change.
The journey has just begun, and the mountains of Kurdistan stand as silent witnesses to a promising future.
Mohammad Dargalayi is a journalist and photographer with 14 years of experience. He is a member of IFJ Global.
