Iraq's Employment Crisis: A Growing Challenge for Graduates
As Iraq's population approaches 43 million, the nation faces a significant challenge in providing adequate employment opportunities for its youth. According to the Iraqi Ministry of Planning, the labor market is saturated with approximately 25 million individuals eligible for work, including 8 million young people aged between 15 and 24. Despite this vast pool of potential workers, only 4 million are currently employed in government positions, which costs the state treasury around 62 trillion Iraqi dinars ($47.3 billion) annually just for salaries.
Protests Erupt Over Job Opportunities
The frustration among graduates has led to widespread protests across Baghdad and various governorates. Students from various fields, including engineering, education, and healthcare, are demanding job placements in the public sector. The Federal Public Service Council, responsible for regulating public service affairs, claims that job opportunities are distributed fairly according to professional standards. However, many graduates argue that bureaucratic hurdles and a lack of cooperation among government institutions hinder their chances of securing employment.
Government's Response and Future Prospects
In response to the mounting pressure, the Chairman of the Federal Public Service Council, Mahmoud Mohammed Al Tamimi, has emphasized the council's commitment to providing job opportunities, particularly for top graduates. Despite Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani's announcement regarding the need to limit government appointments, Al Tamimi reassures that efforts will continue to employ qualified individuals, especially those with higher degrees. The council is also exploring international cooperation to improve public service efficiency and address the pressing employment crisis.
