In response to the worsening water crisis in Basra, located in southern Iraq, the European Union has allocated EUR 1.1 million in humanitarian aid. The funding will support emergency efforts to meet urgent water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) needs over a six-month period, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.
Around 500,000 people are estimated to be severely affected by poor water quality and limited access, particularly those residing in informal settlements around Basra. These areas are experiencing acute shortages due to deteriorating water conditions and infrastructure gaps.
This crisis is considered the most severe in Basra since 2018. It is driven by the drying of the Euphrates River before it reaches the city and reduced Tigris River flow caused by drought-related upstream use. The combined effect has led to increased salinity and water scarcity, posing serious health threats, especially to displaced and vulnerable groups.
With the EU’s support, the Norwegian Red Cross, in collaboration with the Iraqi Red Crescent, will implement measures to improve access to clean water. The response includes the repair and enhancement of water units in underserved areas, improvement of water treatment facilities, and the delivery of clean water by truck to isolated communities.
The European Union continues to prioritize timely humanitarian responses and remains committed to supporting at-risk populations facing critical water shortages.
