Iraq Unveils Key Census Insights: A New Era for Iraq’s National Planning

The event was attended by senior government officials, international experts, and representatives from the United Nations. His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Ali Tamim, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning, emphasized the transformative impact of the census:  “The 2024 Census is a historic achievement for Iraq, providing a clear and comprehensive picture of our population. This data is fundamental for national planning, ensuring that resources are directed to where they are most needed and that every individual’s needs are recognized in development strategies.”

The UNFPA Representative in Iraq, Dr. Hind Jalal, reaffirmed UNFPA’s commitment to supporting Iraq in translating census data into actionable policies: “This census is more than just numbers, it is a tool for change. By investing in data-driven decision-making, Iraq can develop inclusive policies that address the needs of all citizens, particularly women, youth, and marginalized communities. UNFPA is proud to stand alongside the Government of Iraq in this journey.”

The conference featured a detailed presentation of the census findings by the President of the Central Statistical Organization, Dr. Dhiaa Awad Kazem, highlighting key demographic trends, socio-economic indicators, and housing statistics. A panel discussion, involving international experts, explored best practices for utilizing census data to inform policies on education, healthcare, economic planning, and social inclusion.

Building on the momentum of today’s conference, an Advisory Committee Meeting will take place on 25 February 2025, bringing together national and international experts to discuss the next steps in leveraging census data for policy formulation and program implementation. The focus will be on ensuring that the findings lead to impactful, people-centered policies that drive Iraq’s development agenda forward.

UNFPA, in collaboration with the Government of Iraq, remains dedicated to ensuring that the census serves as a foundation for informed decision-making, contributing to Iraq’s National Development Plan 2024-2028 and the broader Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).