Iraq imposes two-day curfew for historic census

Iraq is set to impose a two-day curfew on November 20 and 21 to facilitate the country's first population census in 27 years. This significant event comes after numerous postponements due to ongoing security challenges and political tensions. The last census was conducted in 1997, and the country has faced various obstacles, including sectarian violence and disputes over territories, which have hindered previous attempts to organize a census. The Iraqi government, led by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, has coordinated with the Kurdistan Regional Government to ensure the effective training of statistical staff for the census process. Various ministries will support the initiative by providing necessary resources, such as classrooms and youth centers for training purposes. This collaboration aims to enhance the accuracy and reliability of the census data. The upcoming census is crucial for Iraq, as it will provide essential demographic information that can inform effective policymaking and promote inclusive growth. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is partnering with Iraqi authorities to support this initiative, emphasizing its importance in equipping the country with accurate population data. Despite facing challenges, Iraq has made strides toward stability in recent years, which has allowed for the planning of this census. Current estimates suggest that the population stands at approximately 43 million, highlighting the need for updated demographic information to address the country's evolving needs.