Baghdad: Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Ahmed Al-Asadi, discussed cooperation in the areas of social protection and the IDPs with a United Nations delegation headed by Ghulam Mohammad Ishaq, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator of the United Nations in Iraq.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ministry stated in a statement: “The minister met with a UN delegation in the presence of representatives from the International Labor Organization, UNICEF, the United Nations Development Program, and the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI).”

The statement added that during the meeting, ways to enhance joint cooperation between the Ministry and UN agencies to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals were discussed. The meeting also discussed support for the displaced and job seekers, and ongoing preparations for Iraq’s participation in the Second World Summit for Social Development, scheduled to be held in Doha from November 4-6, 2025.

Al-Asadi emphasized that the Ministry possesses a comprehensive database on social protection and is working in cooperation with state institutions to implement programs supporting vulnerable groups and displaced persons. He noted that Iraq has achieved tangible progress in this area and can present a detailed report on its achievements at the upcoming summit.

He pointed out the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to return displaced persons to their areas after reconstruction and rehabilitation, through loan and social support programs that encourage return and social integration. He explained that many of them still live in unsuitable conditions, and that efforts are underway to improve their conditions.

Furthermore, Al-Asadi explained that the Ministry is keen to utilize the upcoming conference in Doha to present Iraq’s experience and the successes achieved in social protection and addressing the conditions of displaced persons. He emphasized continued coordination with UNICEF and international organizations, including contributing to the preparation of the National Strategy for Early Childhood Development and working to remove Iraq from the list of child labor in armed conflict. He explained that efforts are ongoing to remove Iraq from the list of child laborers through ongoing visits and inspection campaigns at work sites and raising awareness about preventing this phenomenon.