Iraq’s Poverty Rate Declines: Key Findings from the National Economic Survey
The Iraqi Ministry of Planning has released significant findings from its latest social and economic survey, revealing a decline in the poverty rate to 17.5%, down from 20.05% noted in 2018. This comprehensive survey was conducted in collaboration with the Kurdistan Region’s Statistical Authority and supported by the World Bank, encompassing all provinces throughout Iraq.
Survey Insights
The survey presents a range of insights into the economic landscape of Iraq. Below are some of the critical findings:
- Average Family Size: The average household consists of 5.9 members.
- Housing Conditions: Approximately 29% of housing units are considered overcrowded, defined as having more than three individuals per room.
- Consumer Spending: The average monthly expenditure per individual is 248,600 Iraqi dinars, while the average monthly family spending totals 1,467,000 dinars.
- Income Levels: On average, monthly per capita income stands at 201,300 Iraqi dinars, with average monthly family income reaching 1,188,000 dinars.
- Unemployment Rates: For adults aged 15 and over, the unemployment rate is recorded at 13.5%. In contrast, 38.1% of this demographic constitutes the economically active population.
- Ration Card Coverage: An impressive 96.4% of families possess ration cards.
- Chronic Health Conditions: The survey indicates that 15.2% of individuals in Iraq suffer from chronic diseases.
- Housing Ownership: 77.6% of families own the homes they occupy.
- Access to Utilities: About 86.48% of families have access to the public water network, and 96.71% are connected to the public electricity grid.
- Agricultural Ownership: The proportion of families with agricultural holdings stands at 15.5%, while families with non-agricultural assets are at 8.2%.
Regional Poverty Rates
At the governorate level, certain regions have exhibited more pronounced economic disparity:
- Highest Poverty Rates: Al-Muthanna Governorate recorded the highest poverty rate at 40%, followed closely by Babil Governorate at 35.7%.
- Lowest Poverty Rates: In contrast, Erbil Governorate reported the lowest poverty rate at 7%, followed by Sulaymaniyah Governorate at 8%.
The survey highlights substantial poverty reduction in specific governorates when compared to 2018:
- Dhi Qar Governorate: The poverty rate fell to 15% from 40%.
- Al-Muthanna Governorate: The rate declined from 52% to 43%.
- Diwaniyah Governorate: This area saw a reduction from 48% to 29%.
- Nineveh Governorate: A decrease from 38% to 13% was recorded.
Conclusion
The findings of the Iraqi Ministry of Planning’s social and economic survey underscore a notable improvement in the country’s socio-economic status over the past five years. Despite challenges, the measured progress in poverty reduction and economic activity offers a perspective of resilience in Iraq’s economic framework. These insights could provide a basis for future policy initiatives aimed at further enhancing living conditions across the nation.
