Water Crisis in the Middle East

By, Jon Brassfield

Water Crisis Today

• A study conducted by Maplecroft finds that of the top 20 countries suffering extreme or high water stress, 19 are in the Middle East and North Africa region.

Water Crisis Today

• The Middle East is experiencing many environmental concerns. Water resources are becoming increasingly scarce, especially for the millions who already lack access to sanitary water. The region's climate and environment makes for harsh agriculture land and requires loads of water for any crops.

Water Crisis Today

• Agriculture uses 85 percent of water in this region. The overuse of water in agriculture is affecting the countries' already undersized water resources. Jordan's average freshwater withdraw is less than ten percent of Portugal's average, despite being the same size. The cost of water in Jordan has increases 30 percent in ten years, due to a quick shortage of groundwater.

The UN’s Involvment

• 2008 was declared International Year of Sanitation. It helped to put sanitation in the spotlight and led to the launch of several initiatives to more vigorously address the current sanitation crisis

The UN’s Involvement

• World Water Day is held annually on 22 March as a means of focusing attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. Each year, World Water Day highlights a specific aspect of freshwater. In 2010 World Water Day was dedicated to the theme of water quality.

Future Outlook

• Jordan may have been spared a major water crisis this year but the outlook is not good in the water scarce kingdom, and experts say a range of measures and projects need to be implemented as quickly as possible.

Future Outlook

• Experts fear dry seasons will only get worse. Ahmed Koufahi, executive director of the Jordan Environment Society, said climate change is affecting weather patterns, and urged the authorities to promote efficient use of water.

Future Outlook

• The water crisis in the Middle East is an issue that will not be easily solved. The United Nations is taking measures trying to “dampen” the issue. The future outlook does not look well for countries in the middle east; but with a worldwide effort, changes could be made.