The Iraqi Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs has revealed a significant disparity between the number of foreign workers in Iraq and those holding valid work permits. According to a recent announcement, out of over one million foreign workers in the country, only approximately 43,000 possess the necessary legal documentation.

Najim Iqabi, spokesperson for the Ministry, addressed local media, emphasizing the seriousness of the issue under the Iraqi Labor Law of 2015. This legislation requires an even distribution of domestic and foreign workers in the workforce. Iqabi urged business owners to comply with the law and warned that those employing illegal foreign workers would face severe penalties and legal action.

"The Iraqi Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs is responsible for overseeing the 43,000 foreign workers with valid permits," Iqabi stated. The majority of foreign workers in Iraq are currently employed without proper authorization.

Economist Nasser Kinani highlighted the adverse effects of the illegal foreign workforce, noting that it restricts job opportunities for Iraqi youth and contributes to high unemployment rates. Kinani also raised concerns about security risks associated with unregulated foreign workers, describing their presence as "dangerous and unsupervised."

In a recent enforcement action, Iraqi security forces arrested 13 foreign nationals in Baghdad for violating residency regulations. Among those detained were nine individuals from Pakistan and Bangladesh, apprehended near the Shaab Stadium Police Station, and four Bangladeshi nationals arrested in the Karrada area.

Minister Ahmad Al-Asadi expressed growing alarm over the increasing number of illegal foreign workers. He cited reports indicating that around 50,000 Pakistani nationals have entered Iraq unlawfully. The government plans to intensify legal actions to address these violations and enforce compliance with labor laws.

The Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs continues to address the challenge of illegal foreign labor, aiming to ensure a balanced and legally compliant workforce in Iraq.