Iraq is set to impose a two-day nationwide curfew in November to facilitate the country's first population census in nearly three decades, officials announced on Sunday.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed that the curfew will be enforced across all Iraqi provinces on November 20 and 21.
The move is aimed at ensuring the smooth execution of the much-anticipated census, which has been delayed multiple times due to ongoing security challenges.
The last comprehensive census in Iraq was conducted in 1997 and covered only 15 provinces, excluding the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region.
Subsequent attempts to conduct a census were thwarted by political instability and disputes over territory. Notably, a planned census in 2010 was postponed due to rising tensions over disputed areas.
Local media reports indicate that extensive preparations are underway for the census. Coordination efforts are being finalised with the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) for the training of statistical staff.
Additionally, support from various ministries will include providing classrooms and youth centres for staff training.
The initiative is supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which has highlighted the importance of the census in providing accurate demographic data. This data is crucial for effective policymaking and promoting inclusive growth in Iraq.
Despite recent improvements in stability, Iraq continues to grapple with sporadic violence and political turmoil. Current estimates place the country's population at approximately 43 million.
