Iraqi rights center warns of dust storms and heatwave risks, urges national strategy

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Iraqi Strategic Center for Human Rights has warned that Iraq is among the countries most affected by dust and sand storms, citing climate change, expanding desertification, shrinking vegetation cover and water scarcity. The center said roughly 2 billion tons of dust and sand enter the atmosphere each year, with at least 25 percent of global dust emissions linked directly or indirectly to human activity. In a statement marking the International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms, the center said Iraq recorded more than 1,325 dusty days during climate observation periods. It noted that a sandstorm in 2022 caused more than 5,000 cases of suffocation and disrupted air travel and economic activity across the country. The center called on the government to adopt a comprehensive national strategy covering sustainable management of land and water resources, expanded afforestation, stronger early warning systems and reduced emissions. In a separate statement, it urged shortening summer working hours and banning outdoor labor between noon and 4 p.m. The center said the provinces of Dhi Qar, Wasit, Diyala, Babil, Maysan and Diwaniyah have shortened official working hours by one hour in July and August, with temperatures in some areas approaching 50 degrees Celsius.