The Iraqi Ministry of Planning unveiled the results of the 2024 general census on Wednesday, marking the first nationwide survey since 1997. The comprehensive data provides critical insights into the country’s demographic and economic landscape, highlighting both progress and persistent challenges.

Key Findings:

Income and Expenditure: The average monthly income for an individual in Iraq is 201,300 Iraqi dinars, while families earn an average of 1,188,000 dinars per month. However, household expenses outpace income, with individuals spending an average of 248,600 dinars monthly and families expending 1,467,000 dinars.

Poverty Rates: Significant disparities in poverty levels were observed across provinces. Maysan recorded the highest poverty rate at 40%, followed by Babylon at 35.7%. In contrast, Erbil had the lowest poverty rate at 7%, with Sulaymaniyah close behind at 8%.

Unemployment: The unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 and above stands at 13.5%, underscoring ongoing economic difficulties.

Family Size and Homeownership: The average Iraqi family consists of 5.9 members, and 77.6% of families own their homes, reflecting a high rate of homeownership despite economic struggles.

Health and Food Security: The census revealed that 15.2% of the population suffers from chronic diseases, while 96.4% of families rely on government food rations for sustenance.

Implications for Policy:

The census data is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Iraq’s future policies, particularly in areas such as poverty alleviation, job creation, and social welfare programs. The stark regional disparities in poverty rates highlight the need for targeted interventions to address inequality and improve living standards across the country.

A Landmark Survey:

As the first nationwide census in over two decades, the 2024 survey provides a crucial baseline for understanding Iraq’s evolving social and economic dynamics. The findings will enable policymakers to design more effective strategies to tackle unemployment, reduce poverty, and enhance public health and welfare services.

The release of the census results marks a significant step forward in Iraq’s efforts to build a more equitable and prosperous society, even as the country continues to navigate complex economic challenges.