Population censuses and their impact on urban development in Iraq from 1977 to 2024

This research addresses the population census, a crucial tool for understanding the demographic reality in Iraq and effectively and accurately planning its future policies. The importance of the population census is particularly evident given the social, economic, and political challenges facing the country, necessitating the acquisition of accurate and comprehensive data that contributes to formulating policies supporting stability and sustainable development. The population census is a fundamental tool for determining population size and its geographical, urban, and rural distribution, as well as for identifying education levels, unemployment rates, and fertility and mortality rates. Accurate data can only be obtained through a comprehensive and up-to-date census. One of the most pressing reasons for conducting a population census in Iraq is to provide an accurate database that decision-makers in all sectors can rely upon. For example, the population census is fundamental to urban planning, helping to direct investment in infrastructure projects to meet the needs of population growth in both urban and rural areas. Furthermore, the population census helps identify the needs of the education sector, such as schools and universities, the health sector, such as hospitals and health centers, and other essential services that must be provided to citizens equitably and effectively. A population census in Iraq can play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges of unemployment and poverty. The data it generates allows the government to identify areas affected by high rates of unemployment and poverty, and to direct resources to accelerate development and create job opportunities there. Furthermore, a population census can help design targeted social assistance programs for the most vulnerable groups, as it can be used to determine the number of low-income families or individuals in need of financial or service support.