Iraq President Highlights Social Justice, Expanded Welfare at Doha Social Development Summit

04-11-2025 12:52

Peregraf- Iraqi President Dr. Abdullatif Jamal Rashid participated Tuesday in the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, stressing that social justice is an “existential necessity” for strengthening security and stability.

During his remarks, President Rashid said Iraq has expanded its social protection network, increasing the number of families covered by 140%. Spending on social protection has risen from 1 trillion IQD to more than 5 trillion IQD.

He highlighted the launch of economic empowerment programs benefiting tens of thousands of citizens, including financing small and medium-sized enterprises, which helped reduce unemployment. Thousands of women have also been supported under these programs.

Rashid noted that Iraq entered the demographic dividend in 2024, with the population aged 15 to 64 exceeding 60%, underscoring the importance of job creation, skills development, and entrepreneurship.

The president emphasized Iraq’s policy framework guiding development and social reform, saying the country has adopted:

  • National Development Plan 2024–2028

  • Third Poverty Reduction Strategy

  • Iraq’s Vision for Sustainable Development 2030

  • Iraq Vision 2050

He added that the National Employment Policy 2025–2029 has also been approved to secure decent, safe, and inclusive job opportunities for all.

President Rashid stressed progress in digital transformation, including the development of a unified national social protection registry to ensure fairness and transparency in benefit distribution.

He also pointed to Iraq’s efforts to address climate challenges through the Green Iraq Initiative, expanding renewable energy, and boosting agricultural development to improve food security.

Rashid affirmed Iraq’s commitment to empowering youth and women, promoting good governance, combating corruption, strengthening partnerships, and supporting the international community in building a fairer and more inclusive world.