Iraq Reports Significant Drop in Poverty, Unemployment

Iraq’s Ministry of Planning has reported a substantial decrease in poverty and unemployment rates following its latest economic and social survey.

According to the ministry's preliminary findings, poverty levels have declined from 23% to 17.6%, while unemployment rates dropped from 16.5% to 14.4%, marking notable improvements for the country.

These figures were announced on Sunday by the ministry’s spokesperson, Abdul Zahra Al-Hindawi, as covered by the Iraqi News Agency (INA).

The survey, conducted over the past year by Iraq’s Central Statistical Organisation and GIS, began in July 2023 and examined household expenditures, welfare standards, and unemployment indicators across the nation.

The ministry attributes these positive trends to various government initiatives, including an expanded social welfare network and a distribution of essential food supplies through a ration card system, which have helped reduce poverty.

In tackling unemployment, Iraq's government has also focused on job creation by launching numerous projects across Baghdad and the provinces.

By resuming previously stalled projects and sustaining ongoing ones, the government has created more employment opportunities, according to Al-Hindawi.