Iraq Initiates Long-Awaited Nationwide Population Census After 27 Years

Iraq has launched its first national population and housing census in 27 years, aimed at gathering vital demographic data for social and economic planning. Minister of Planning Mohammed Tamim highlighted the importance of accurate data for future developments and public services. The officiating authorities have implemented security measures, including a curfew, across all provinces for the two-day event, which holds critical significance for rebuilding Iraq after years of conflict.

On November 20, Iraq initiated a nationwide general population and housing census, marking the first such effort in 27 years. Minister of Planning Mohammed Tamim emphasized the importance of accurate data collection, urging citizens to assist census teams in this vital process. He stated that the census would play a pivotal role in fostering social and economic justice and enhancing public services across the nation. In preparation for the two-day census, Iraqi authorities heightened security measures and implemented a curfew across all provinces, including the semi-autonomous region of Kurdistan. Iraq has a historical precedent of conducting population censuses every decade, with the last one recorded in 1997, and no census having occurred since the 2003 U.S. invasion.

The recent population census in Iraq is a significant step in the nation’s recovery and development following decades of conflict and instability. The last census, held in 1997, was disrupted by years of war and political upheaval, making this enumeration critical for current and future policy planning. Accurate population data is essential for effective governance, resource allocation, and the delivery of services, particularly in a country that has faced challenges related to demographic changes and regional disparities. The government’s call for cooperation underscores the necessity of community involvement in this process, which aims to assess and address the needs of the Iraqi population comprehensively.

The commencement of Iraq’s population and housing census represents a historical milestone after a prolonged hiatus. By seeking the cooperation of its citizens, the government aims to ensure the accuracy and effectiveness of the data collected, which is essential for informed decision-making regarding social and economic policies. The extremely cautious security measures indicate the importance of this census and the determination to conduct it under safe and orderly conditions. This census could markedly influence the future direction of Iraq in terms of governance and service provision.

Original Source: www.socialnews.xyz