Iraq will finally be conducting its first census in 27 years, after several postponements due to security concerns. The government has announced a two-day curfew on November 20 and 21 to facilitate the population count. Measures have been put in place to ensure the process runs smoothly, including coordination with the Kurdistan Regional Government and support from various ministries for training of statistical staff.
The last census in Iraq was held in 1997 and excluded the three northern provinces of the Kurdistan region. The country has faced decades of conflict and violence, leading to postponements of the census, most notably in 2010 due to disputes over territories. Despite this, Iraq has shown signs of stability in recent years, with a current estimated population of around 43 million.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has partnered with Iraqi authorities for the upcoming census, emphasizing the importance of accurate demographic information for effective policymaking and inclusive growth. The initiative is seen as crucial for providing Iraq with the necessary data to address societal needs.
In the past, Iraq conducted a census every 10 years, but the count could not be carried out in 2007 due to sectarian violence. The upcoming census will play a significant role in providing valuable information for the country’s development and planning for the future.
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