Iraq to implement two-day curfew for first census in decades

After numerous postponements due to security issues, Iraq is set to have its first census in 27 years with a two-day curfew scheduled for November.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced the curfew for November 20 and 21 to conduct the population count, which will involve various measures such as coordinating with the Kurdistan Regional Government for statistical staff training.

Multiple ministries will support the process by providing facilities for training, marking a significant development for a country that has faced conflict and violence for decades and postponed censuses due to ongoing turmoil.

Estimated at 43 million, Iraq’s population will be accurately documented in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund to aid in policy-making and growth initiatives.

With stability improving in recent years, this census will provide crucial demographic information that will benefit Iraq in the long run, despite past challenges that impeded previous counts.