Desertification is considered one of the most serious environmental problems facing the world today, due to its direct negative impacts on food security, the economy, and social stability. Desertification refers to land degradation in arid and semi-arid regions as a result of natural and human factors, leading to the loss of soil fertility and productive capacity. The causes of desertification can be classified into natural causes and human-induced causes. Among the natural causes of desertification are climate changes that lead to decreased rainfall and prolonged periods of drought. These conditions weaken vegetation cover and make soil more vulnerable to erosion. Strong winds also play a significant role in removing the nutrient-rich topsoil, especially in desert and semi-desert regions. In addition, rising temperatures increase the rate of water evaporation from the soil, reducing soil moisture and limiting plant growth. Human causes are considered the most influential factors accelerating the process of desertification. One of the main causes is the removal of vegetation cover due to deforestation for fuel or urban expansion, which leads to the loss of natural soil protection. Overgrazing also contributes significantly by destroying natural plants before they complete their growth cycle, thereby reducing the regeneration of vegetation. Poor agricultural land use, such as intensive farming without allowing recovery periods for the soil or the use of inappropriate irrigation methods, leads to soil salinization and degradation. Furthermore, unsustainable management of water resources, including excessive extraction of groundwater, results in declining water levels and increased salinity. In conclusion, desertification is a complex phenomenon resulting from the interaction of natural and human factors; however, poorly planned human activities represent the main cause of its intensification. This highlights the importance of adopting sustainable development strategies, including the protection of vegetation cover, improved management of water resources, and the promotion of environmental awareness, in order to reduce the spread of desertification and preserve land for future generations. University of the First Future – one of the leading private universities in Iraq