Iran: A Passion for Large-Scale Water Projects is Unlikely to Alleviate Complex Water Problems
As Iran inaugurates the first stage of a major water transfer project this month, history shows that similar projects failed to alleviate water insecurity as they did not address the root causes of water scarcity.
Food Security in Peril as Crises Continue to Mount
Covid-19, severe weather events and pest outbreaks have meant that food security will continue to decline in the near future, with aid agencies increasingly unable to help.
Bangladesh a Winner in India-China Rivalry but Water Dispute Settlement is Still a Long Way Off
Although India is keen to grant concessions to Bangladesh to keep it from China’s sphere of influence, domestic politics have prevented New Delhi from solving the long-standing water-sharing dispute with Dhaka.
Syrian Food Security in Decline as Wheat Shortages Loom
Unprecedented challenges to Syria’s food security may worsen as the government struggles to procure wheat.
Iraq: Kurdish Dam-Building Spree Threatens Fragile Water Supplies
Water security in southern Iraq is likely to further decline in the near future as new dams are built in Iraqi Kurdistan.
Wetter than Average Summer Anticipated for Eastern Australia and the Western Pacific
The last La Niña weather event between 2010 and 2012 caused billions of dollars of damage in eastern Australia and the western Pacific. While this summer’s is expected to be less severe, it is likely to bring wetter conditions to the region.
Indonesian Farm Estate Project Could Repeat Past Mistakes
While increasing rice production would reduce the country’s reliance on imported food, it is unlikely to be economically or environmentally beneficial.
Indian Farm Bills Seek to Liberalise Agricultural Markets
The legislation is designed to give Indian farmers greater bargaining power in agricultural markets, which could improve their financial position and Indian food security.
US Launches Mekong Partnership as Chinese Debt Trap Closes on Laos
Washington launched a new partnership with Mekong countries to counter rising Chinese influence in continental South-East Asia. As parts of the region are pulled closer into Beijing’s orbit, however, it is unlikely that the new partnership will alter the geopolitical situation.
UAE and Israel Discuss Closer Co-operation in Food and Water Security
After normalising diplomatic relations, the UAE and Israel could both stand to benefit from closer collaboration in agricultural and water research and development.