Iraq Launches Multidimensional Poverty Index Report

The Government of Iraq, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI), has officially launched the Iraq Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) analytical report—marking a major step forward in the country’s understanding of and response to poverty. The launch also includes a presentation of the methodology for developing the Women’s Poverty Index, making Iraq one of the few countries in the region to establish a dedicated women-specific poverty measurement tool.

The 2024 MPI reveals that poor populations experience 10.8% of total deprivations, particularly in education, housing, and access to digital services. However, the report also notes significant progress, including a nearly 50% reduction in the national MPI since 2011, along with a continued decline in income poverty, which currently stands at 17.5%.

“This report is more than just numbers; it is a policy tool that informs us about vulnerable groups and ways to support them. This report will directly contribute to identifying basic needs and improving the conditions of citizens in the governorates, in light of the priorities it reflects, spatially and sectorally. Although the value of the multidimensional poverty index decreased from 11.4% in 2018 to 10.8% in 2024, we are determined to adopt policies and plans to continuously reduce the value of this index.” said H.E. Dr. Muhammed Tamim, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning of Iraq.

The Multidimensional Poverty Index also uncovers key disparities often overlooked in traditional poverty statistics, providing detailed evidence of deprivation at the governorate and sector levels, especially across education, health, and living standards.

“Iraq has made important gains, but these data also show us where we need to focus our collective efforts,” said Sascha Graumann, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Iraq. “While some governorates, such as Kirkuk and Baghdad, have shown encouraging results, others—such as Muthanna, Missan, and Salah al-Din, still face relatively high levels of deprivation across several dimensions. Now that material poverty is beginning to decline, it is time to ensure that no region, woman, or community in Iraq is left behind.”

“I am delighted to witness join the launch of the national Multidimensional Poverty Index for Iraq. From the University of Oxford, it has been an honour to collaborate on this pioneering measure with the Ministry of Planning, the Commission of Statistics and Geographical Information Systems, and the Kurdistan Regional Statistics Office, all supported by UNDP. We deeply admire the skilled, competent, innovative, and dedicated teams that made this possible,” said Professor Sabina Alkire, Director of the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI).

The MPI report is based on the Iraq Household Socio-Economic Survey (2023–2024) and includes five dimensions: education, health, living standards, employment, and exposure to shocks. The inclusion of employment and household shocks—such as climate change or income instability—makes Iraq’s MPI one of the most contextually relevant tools in the region.

The findings of this report support the Iraqi National Development Plan (2024–2028) and are aligned with global commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 1: No Poverty. Policymakers and development partners can now use the MPI to better target resources, guide local planning, and monitor progress over time. UNDP will continue to support the Government of Iraq in translating this data into impactful action, ensuring that every Iraqi has the opportunity to live a sustainable and dignified life.