In a recent report released by the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs in the Kurdistan Region government, significant employment figures and Social Security Fund revenues have been disclosed, shedding light on labor trends and social welfare in the region.

Since 2018 up to the conclusion of the first four months of 2024, a total of 165,627 individuals—both local and foreign—have been employed, according to official statistics. Among these employment opportunities, 112,712 were provided to local male workers, while 24,664 job opportunities were extended to local female workers. Additionally, 23,495 job positions were filled by foreign male workers, with 4,752 positions occupied by foreign female workers.

The Social Security Fund in the Kurdistan Region recorded substantial revenues during the months of January and February of the current year, amounting to 34,392,223,000 dinars. Currently, 752 retired workers are receiving monthly pensions from the Social Security Fund.

Efforts to tackle unemployment have also been notable, with recruitment departments across provinces and self-administered areas creating 1,185 job opportunities in 2023 alone. Notably, of these opportunities, 253 were specifically designated for female job seekers.

In response to labor-related issues, the Kurdistan Regional Government has established a dedicated hotline for workers at the number 5500. This initiative enables workers to seek assistance and report work-related problems directly to labor courts.

The labor rights framework in the Kurdistan Region operates under two key laws: Law No. 39 of 1971 concerning Retirement and Social Security, and Law No. 71 of 1971 concerning Labor. Under these laws, the retirement age for men is set at 60 years with a minimum service period of 20 years, while for women, the retirement age is 55 years with the same minimum service requirement.

Furthermore, project owners are mandated by law to enroll their employees in the Social Security Department for their protection. This entails a contribution of 5% from the worker's salary and 12% from the employer's income into the retirement fund, ensuring a monthly pension for the worker upon retirement.

These developments underscore the Kurdistan Region government's commitment to promoting labor rights, facilitating employment opportunities, and safeguarding the welfare of workers through robust social security measures.