Iraq will enforce a two-day nationwide curfew in November to conduct its first population census in nearly 30 years, officials announced on Sunday.
Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani confirmed that the curfew would be in effect across all Iraqi provinces on November 20 and 21.
The curfew is intended to ensure the successful completion of the long-awaited census, which has faced multiple delays due to ongoing security issues.
The last full census in Iraq was carried out in 1997, covering only 15 provinces and excluding the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region.
Subsequent attempts to conduct a census were hindered by political instability and territorial disputes. Notably, a planned census in 2010 was postponed due to escalating tensions over disputed areas.
Local media report that extensive preparations are being finalized for the upcoming census. This includes coordination with the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) for training statistical staff.
Additionally, support from various ministries will involve providing classrooms and youth centers for staff training.
The initiative is backed by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which underscores the importance of the census in generating accurate demographic data essential for effective policymaking and promoting inclusive growth in Iraq.
Despite recent gains in stability, Iraq continues to face sporadic violence and political unrest. Current estimates place the country’s population at approximately 43 million.
