Iraq’s first official population census in nearly 40 years has recorded a total of 46.1 million people, according to final results released on Monday. As reported by the Associated Press (AP), this marks a significant milestone for the country’s planning and development.

A significant milestone for Iraq

During a press conference, Iraqi Planning Minister Mohammed Tamim highlighted the census as a significant accomplishment. “This census demonstrates the government’s determination to improve conditions in the country,” he stated, according to AP.

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Authorities believe the collected data will aid in resource allocation and economic planning following years of conflict and instability.

Urban and economic differences

The census gathered comprehensive data on living conditions throughout Iraq, including the semi-autonomous Kurdish region.

According to AP, 70.2% of the population in federal Iraq resides in urban areas, whereas the proportion is higher in the Kurdish region at 84.6%. Employment rates were also higher in Kurdish areas, with 46% of the population being economically active, compared to 41.6% in federal Iraq.

The census data on education revealed that primary school enrollment stood at 93% in the Kurdish region, while it was 88% in the rest of Iraq. However, federal Iraq had greater access to essential services such as potable water, electricity, and home ownership.

Distribution of resources

Minister Tamim stressed that the census would contribute to a fairer distribution of resources across Iraq. “For the first time in four decades, Iraq has successfully conducted a full census, helping ensure more equitable resource allocation,” he stated, according to AP.

The final 2024 population count of 46.1 million reflects an increase of over 1 million from the preliminary estimate of 45.4 million released in November. In 2009, an unofficial estimate had placed Iraq’s population at 31.6 million.