Investments to Stem Climate Change Effects Attract Interest...and Cause Tribal Conflict

Earlier this year, a conflict over land escalated between the Barakat and Sufran tribes in Muthanna governorate’s Waraka district. The tribes have long struggled to control the desert area, which attracted little attention because it is rather desolate. However, following environmental studies showing that desertification in the area significantly contributes to dust storms in Kuwait and southern Iraq, the Kuwaiti government recently decided to invest significantly in the area, rehabilitating and greening it. Competition for contracts is fierce, and the land values are expected to significantly increase once the project is complete.

At the time, the security forces intervened to quell the immediate violence. Afterward, local government officials and tribal elders formed a committee to address the disagreement, but this effort failed. In mid-November, clashes resumed when groups from the two tribes exchanged gunfire. Several members of the security forces were wounded, and one killed. Days later, the Muthanna Provincial Council held an emergency meeting attended by the governor and one of the province’s MPs.

Following the meeting, the provincial government released a statement declaring that Muthanna would not submit to chaos and would prevent attempts to undermine stability. It called on all parties to cease escalation immediately and stressed that the law was the ultimate arbiter and that violators would face strict measures. Adding insult to injury, the government has clarified that the ownership of the land is held by the Ministry of Finance, not either tribe. Another Muthanna MP accused the provincial government of overstepping its authority by searching tribe members’ homes without judicial orders. He noted that his tribe recognized the decisions made by the government and tribal elders to resolve the conflict but alleged that the Sufran tribe had rejected it and had attacked the Barakat tribe’s guest house.

Tribal disputes remain a significant threat to security and stability in Iraq. They also have a significant political role and are especially important during elections. The recent clashes demonstrate the difficulty that the state has in achieving total security and sovereignty over Iraqi territory.