Baghdad, Iraq | 10 July 2024 – The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Government of Iraq have formalized a significant agreement to enhance joint cooperation in conducting the 2024 Population and Housing Census of Iraq, a pivotal step toward informed development planning and achieving sustainable development goals. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on 2 July 2024 by His Excellency, Dr Muhammad Ali Tamim, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning for Iraq, and Mr Nestor Owomuhangi, UNFPA Representative in Iraq.

This MoU symbolizes a strengthened partnership aimed at advancing population-related initiatives. His Excellency, Dr Tamim emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “This memorandum reflects our commitment to enhancing joint efforts with UNFPA, focusing on population issues and paving the way toward sustainable development in Iraq.”

UNFPA's engagement in this initiative highlights its dedication to providing comprehensive support for the 2024 census, which marks a critical milestone in Iraq’s history of population data collection. Mr Owomuhangi expressed his appreciation for the trust and financial support from the Iraqi government, adding, “UNFPA is always grateful when governments request its support for census activities. In the case of Iraq, UNFPA deeply values the government's trust and, even more so, the financial support provided for the upcoming census. This demonstrates the government's strong commitment to conducting the census, which is crucial for informed development planning, especially after decades of anticipation.”

Dr Dhiaa Khadum, President of the Authority of Statistics and Geographic Information System in Iraq, highlighted the importance of the MoU in renewing commitments from the 2020 agreement. He noted that the upcoming census, which will be conducted electronically for the first time, necessitates the support and collaboration of international organizations like UNFPA to guarantee international recognition and the credibility of the results. “The renewed agreement underscores the need for enhanced support and advocacy for the census process, leveraging UNFPA’s advanced expertise in census operations,” said Dr Khadum.

In alignment with this collaboration, UNFPA will mobilize resources from various international development partners to complement the Government of Iraq’s funding, facilitating the successful execution of the census. Contributing to the 2024 census plays a crucial role in equipping Iraq with accurate demographic information, facilitating effective policymaking, and promoting inclusive growth.

*******

UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, delivers a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person’s potential is fulfilled.

For more information or media inquiries, please get in touch with Sana Jalal, Communications and Partnerships Officer, karwan@unfpa.org