Voices of Iraq’s Next Generation at Centre of Climate and Child Rights Workshop
In November 2025, as the world reflected on COP30, World Children’s Day, and World Toilet Day, World Vision Iraq brought together children and teachers in Rashad, Kirkuk Governorate, for a powerful workshop on climate change and children's rights. Under the theme 'Children for Climate & Rights: Voices of Iraq’s Next Generation', the workshop amplified the perspectives of children already living with the impact of the climate disaster.
This gathering placed children at the heart of conversations on clean water, safe sanitation, environmental protection, and their fundamental rights, not as passive beneficiaries, but as active contributors shaping solutions.
Children spoke honestly about the environmental challenges affecting their daily lives, guided by the central question: 'What makes our planet sad or sick?'
- Climate change, pollution from fuel and emissions, and ongoing wars
- Lack of trees and green spaces
- Drought and water pollution
- Waste and dirty streets
- Diseases spreading due to polluted air and weak infrastructure
- Increased desertification and migration from villages to cities
- Smoke, lack of rain, and unclean air
Their voices carried a clear message: climate change is not only an environmental issue, it's a child rights issue.
Shifting toward hope, children identified practical actions their communities and leaders can take to protect the planet. Their recommendations echo a strong call for environmental justice, access to clean water, and climate-resilient services.
What can we do to help our planet smile again?
- Plant trees and expand green spaces
- Use drip irrigation and conserve water
- Keep the environment clean
- Increase access to clean water
- Use solar energy
- Stop wars and reduce pollution
Education representatives reinforced the idea that children’s voices hold the power to influence decision-making. Mr. Laith emphasised: “When children speak, we must listen. Their ideas lead us to better solutions.”
Context Matters
Iraq is among the world’s most climate-vulnerable countries. Rising temperatures, water scarcity, and environmental degradation are affecting food security, children’s health, education, and access to clean water, all fundamental child rights. Many families, especially in rural areas, are struggling to adapt as drought intensifies and services deteriorate.
Yet, there is hope. Children in Iraq are responding with creativity, courage, and leadership. Their voices in Rashad will contribute to the Children’s Climate & Rights Statement, which serves as a foundation for World Vision Iraq’s growing climate and WASH advocacy efforts. This statement places children’s perspectives at the heart of calls for clean water, safe sanitation, environmental protection, and a future where every child can thrive.
