wcm.01.2025.120.131

Groundwater has become a vital resource for domestic, agricultural, and industrial use, especially as surface water supplies decline due to reduced rainfall, decreasing river flows, and increasing evaporation. This study reviews the critical state of groundwater resources in Iraq, focusing on challenges such as over-extraction, contamination, and the worsening effects of climate change on water availability. The review highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive monitoring and assessment framework to track groundwater levels and quality, utilizing real-time data on aquifer health, water table depth, and contamination. It also emphasizes the importance of implementing sustainable groundwater management practices tailored to the unique geological and Iraqi aquifer hydrological conditions. A key recommendation is adopting a participatory approach to groundwater management, engaging local communities, water users, and stakeholders in decision-making. This approach aims to promote ownership, accountability, and sustainable practices while promoting equitable resource management. The study also stresses addressing infrastructure and institutional challenges, including inadequate storage, poor regulation, and lack of coordination among authorities. Furthermore, the research calls for incorporating climate change considerations, such as altered precipitation patterns and rising temperatures, into long-term groundwater management strategies to adapt to changing environmental conditions. In conclusion, a collaborative approach combining scientific research, effective governance, community engagement, and climate adaptation is essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of Iraq’s groundwater resources, supporting food security, economic development, and resilience against increasing water scarcity.