ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the restoration of the Iraqi Marshlands, the largest wetland ecosystem in the Middle East, that are of historical, ecological and sociocultural importance. It also focuses on various restoration efforts, the links between restoration projects and peacebuilding, economic development and sustainable livelihoods, and challenges to ongoing restoration efforts. The chapter considers the rehabilitation of the kahrez systems in northern Iraq, its impacts on sustainable livelihoods and community development, and its links with conflict resolution and peacebuilding. It also considers kahrez systems' contribution to a more reliable and sustainable source of groundwater for communities living in northern Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan. Kahrez rehabilitation in northern Iraq and other parts of the Middle East has revealed that strong local leadership is necessary to ensure the effective management of kahrez as a common water resource in communities. The restoration and rehabilitation of the kahrez have demonstrated their capacity to contribute to sustainable livelihoods, conflict resolution and community development.
