Salahaddin University-Erbil (SUE) proudly hosted the International Conference on Climate Change Action: Challenges and Solutions (ICCCSUE 2025) on April 8-9, 2025, which served as a critical platform for addressing the pressing climate challenges facing not only the Kurdistan Region and Iraq but also the global community. Considering the remarkable leadership demonstrated by  Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in addressing environmental concerns and promoting sustainable development, this conference was pivotal in advancing climate action and fostering sustainable development.

A global call to action

Climate change is one of Iraq’s most urgent and complex challenges, with significant and far-reaching consequences for the environment, public health, economic stability, and social structures. ICCCSUE 2025 brought together experts, policymakers, and thought leaders to propose actionable, science-based solutions to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change on the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.

At the heart of the conference, there were five key objectives, each addressing a critical aspect of climate change:

1. Climate change health risk assessment: Understanding the implications of climate change on public health and developing strategies to safeguard vulnerable populations.
2. Mobilization of resources for adaptation and mitigation: Formulating sustainable and adaptive strategies to address climate change and secure funding for impactful climate action.
3. Artificial intelligence-driven climate solutions: Leveraging AI and interdisciplinary collaboration to drive innovative solutions in climate research.
4. Socioeconomic implications and migration: Analyzing the socioeconomic consequences of climate change, particularly concerning migration patterns and regional stability.
5. Advancing renewable energy solutions: Promoting sustainable energy practices and green technologies as a means of reducing the carbon footprint.

Comprehensive, interdisciplinary dialogue

ICCCSUE 2025 featured a variety of sub-themes and goals that raised awareness of the current and future climate risks in Iraq and the broader region. Participants engaged in discussions that highlight the interconnectedness of climate change’s effects on natural and human systems. Key areas of focus included:

• Assessing the health impacts of climate change and developing public health strategies.
• Fostering a holistic understanding of its effects on water resources, biodiversity, food security, and economic development.
• Securing funding for climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.
• Integrating AI and technology into climate monitoring solutions.
• Highlighting successful case studies to inspire actionable climate policies and strategies.

In addition to these discussions, the conference emphasized the role of advanced technologies such as AI in monitoring and combating climate change. With a particular focus on renewable energy, green initiatives, and eco-friendly practices, attendees explored how best to integrate these innovations into existing systems and frameworks.

Distinguished speakers and thought leaders

The conference featured a prestigious lineup of attendees, including policymakers, academics, and experts from the KRG, the Iraqi Federal Government, and international institutions. Among the distinguished speakers are:

• Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman, Senior Advisor to the Prime Minister for Foreign Affairs and Climate Change, KRG
• Begard Dilshad Talabani, Minister of Agriculture and Water Resources, KRG
• Amanj Harki, Head, Renewable Energy Subcommittee, Electricity and Energy Committee, Iraq
• Srwa Rasul, General Director of Joint Crisis Coordination Center (JCC), Ministry of Interior, KRG
• Karwan Sabah Hawrami, Director-General of Water Resources, KRG
• Majed Abu Zreig, President, Irbid National University, Jordan; Professor of Water Resources and Water Diplomacy
• Ali Rashid Ahmed, President, Erbil Provincial Council.
• Abdul Rahman Siddiq, Former Minister of Environment, Iraq; former Head of the Board of Environmental Protection and Improvement, KRG
• Rawiya Muzal Mahmoud, Deputy Director-General of Agricultural Guidance and Training, Ministry of Agriculture, Iraq; International Expert and Negotiator on Climate Change Action
• Maziyar Rajabi, Climate and Carbon Economy Advisor, Office of the Prime Minister, Iraq

Scholarship launched

ICCCSUE 2025 also received 73 research paper submissions. Of these, 54 papers (73.97%) were accepted and presented by scholars from universities across the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, the UK, Greece, Jordan, Iran, Turkey, Italy, Bangladesh, Tunisia, UAE, Egypt, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, and Syria. The remaining 19 papers (26.03%) were rejected following a rigorous peer-review process.

The accepted papers showcased a broad range of perspectives, including 26 from the Kurdistan Region, 20 from international universities, and eight from other regions of Iraq. The conference also featured strong institutional engagement, with 18 ministries and academic institutions from both within Iraq and abroad actively participating. Notably, 17 local universities and 12 international universities were represented.

In total, 163 researchers from 15 countries contributed to and participated in the conference, highlighting its global scope and collaborative nature.

A collaborative approach

Through cross-sectoral dialogue and multidisciplinary engagement, ICCCSUE-2025 successfully fostered collaboration among governments, academic institutions, and industry experts. The conference provided a platform for the exchange of policy frameworks, research findings, and technical innovations, all aimed at advancing joint initiatives for climate resilience.

Key discussions also addressed climate-induced displacement, the challenges faced by climate refugees, and the broader socio-political implications of environmental change—highlighting the urgent need for proactive policy measures and comprehensive humanitarian strategies.

Way forward

ICCCSUE-2025 marked a significant milestone in the region’s ongoing climate journey. It showcased how collective action and strategic partnerships can empower the Kurdistan Region and Iraq to take a leading role in addressing climate challenges and implementing sustainable solutions.

As we reflect on the insights, recommendations, and collaborations that emerged during the conference, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to take decisive action for a climate-resilient future.

Conference Link:  https://conferences.su.edu.krd/icccsue2025/

Huner Abdulla Khayyat is an assistant professor at the Department of Geography, Salahaddin University-Erbil.