Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The first population and housing census in Iraq since 1987 is scheduled to take place on November 20–21. This historic event marks a significant step in Iraq’s development journey, with implications for economic policy, strategic planning, and national unity.
Significance of the census in Iraq
A nationwide census is more than just a headcount; it’s a tool for understanding demographic trends, socio-economic needs, and development gaps. According to the Iraqi Ministry of Planning, the 2023 census aims to collect comprehensive data to shape policies on resource allocation, urban planning, and public services. This initiative will play a critical role in rebuilding the nation, which has faced decades of conflict and instability.
Ali Arayan Saleh, the Executive Director of the Census in the Ministry of Planning, emphasized the importance of adhering to international standards. The census will be conducted using the “de jure” method, counting people based on their usual place of residence, aligning Iraq with practices in neighboring countries.
Inclusion of disputed territories
The census includes all provinces, including the Kurdistan Region and disputed areas such as Kirkuk. These regions have long been a source of political contention, making their inclusion a critical aspect of the process. Notably, enumerators from Kurdish, Arab, and Turkmen backgrounds will oversee data collection in disputed territories, ensuring representation of all communities.
Coordination between the Iraqi federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has been a cornerstone of this effort. Despite past delays and disagreements, the two administrations have agreed on a framework to ensure accuracy and inclusivity.
Challenges in the disputed areas
The disputed territories have been at the center of political tension, particularly over questions of ethnicity and representation. While the census excludes a question about ethnicity, this omission has sparked concerns among Kurdish and Turkmen communities. They fear that their demographic weight may be underrepresented, potentially affecting future resource allocation and political representation.
Economic and strategic impact
The data collected from the census is vital for shaping Iraq’s economic future. By understanding population distribution, income levels, and workforce capabilities, policymakers can craft more effective strategies for growth and stability.
Key areas of focus
- Budget Allocation:
The KRG has highlighted how the census will clarify population numbers, which could impact its share of the national budget. Since the share dropped from 17% to around 12%, there is optimism that accurate figures will help rectify disparities. - Infrastructure Development:
Census data will guide investments in roads, hospitals, schools, and other critical infrastructure, addressing the specific needs of urban and rural areas. - Employment Policies:
By understanding labor force dynamics, the government can design targeted job creation initiatives to reduce unemployment, especially among youth.
Security measures and logistical preparations
To facilitate the census, Iraq will implement a nationwide curfew on November 20–21. This measure aims to restrict movement, ensuring accurate data collection. Exceptions will be made for essential services, media personnel, and census workers, all equipped with identification badges.
Field teams are already active, having completed 70% of preliminary tasks, including listing and numbering households. They are now preparing for the final stage of data collection.
International collaboration and oversight
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and a team of 12 international experts are providing guidance and quality control for the census. This collaboration ensures the process meets global standards, boosting its credibility domestically and internationally.
Public cooperation and awareness
Religious leaders, including Baghdad’s prominent cleric Abdul Wahab Al-Samarrai, have urged citizens to participate actively in the census. Al-Samarrai emphasized that accurate data is essential for equitable service delivery, calling it a “duty of every citizen.”
Key challenges and controversies
While the census is a landmark event, it faces challenges:
- Ethnic Sensitivities: Excluding the ethnicity question has provoked backlash, particularly in Kirkuk and other disputed areas.
- Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs): Iraq’s large population of IDPs and emigrants may be undercounted, risking further marginalization.
- Political Polarization: Efforts to politicize the process could undermine its integrity, particularly in oil-rich regions.
Looking ahead: The path to inclusive growth
For Iraq, this census represents an opportunity to rebuild trust between its diverse communities and its government. By ensuring transparency and inclusivity, the country can lay the groundwork for sustainable development. The results will also provide a clearer picture of Iraq’s demographic landscape, enabling targeted investments and policies.
Inbound Links
- Iraq Ministry of Planning
- UNFPA Iraq
Outbound Links
- United Nations Population Fund
- Iraq Central Statistics Organization
This milestone census is a beacon of hope for Iraq, promising a future built on accurate data and informed decisions. By participating, Iraqis contribute to a legacy of progress for generations to come.
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