New york: The Iraqi delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning Mohammed Ali Tamim, presented its comprehensive strategy to address poverty and enhance social protection during the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development Goals. The strategy focuses on responsible investment, climate change mitigation, and strengthening social protection systems.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Planning, Maher Hammad Johan, provided a detailed overview of the government's approach, highlighting its commitment to data-driven policies, digital transformation, and fostering partnerships as core components of its national strategy against poverty. Johan emphasized the importance of ensuring basic security, such as food, housing, and services while promoting comprehensive social protection, economic empowerment, and community participation in development.
Johan revealed that over two million families benefited from social protection last year, with regional development funds distributed more equitably based on population size and poverty rates. The strategy also aims to achieve food security, develop the agricultural sector, reduce unemployment, expand financial inclusion, and enhance economic empowerment. The Iraqi government has prioritized climate change adaptation and implemented policies to mitigate its effects, addressing issues like forced migration and displacement.
In terms of partnerships, Johan noted Iraq's success in establishing a Private Sector Development Council and other coordination councils to facilitate collaboration between the state and private sector. Despite these efforts, challenges remain, including ensuring financial sustainability, increasing the efficiency of development programs, and responding to migration and displacement due to climate change and emergencies. Johan also highlighted the need for societal changes in understanding social protection concepts.
The session included participation from key United Nations figures, such as Najat Maalla M'jid, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Violence against Children, and Abdullah Al-Dardari, Assistant Director of the UN Regional Office for Arab States. They commended Iraq's efforts and underscored the necessity of international cooperation to bolster sustainable development initiatives in the country.