Green Theory and the Climate Crisis in Iraq: Critical Questions and Future Visions

Abstract

Green theory challenges traditional theories of international relations, such as realism and liberalism, by redefining the concept of security to include environmental security. It calls for a rethinking of the relationship between humanity and nature, emphasizing that climate change is a civilizational crisis resulting from modern industrial systems. However, its application is challenging in developing countries due to economic priorities. Furthermore, it lacks realism and is characterized by excessive idealism within the context of international political competition, as it relies heavily on concepts of environmental justice and international cooperation—goals that may be unattainable in a world dominated by national interests and political rivalry. This undoubtedly requires continuous, critical, and reflective thinking. Iraq, as a developing country, suffers from political and security instability and may find it difficult to allocate the necessary resources to implement long-term environmental strategies and achieve this justice, given the power imbalance between developed and developing countries. Consequently, the global nature of the theory, through its adoption of global perspectives on climate change, may prevent it from addressing the specific environmental crises in Iraq, such as water scarcity caused by regional dams and other critical issues.