Iraq’s Population Projected to Reach 75 Million by 2050 Amid Growing Challenges and Opportunities

Iraq’s Population Projected to Reach 75 Million by 2050 Amid Growing Challenges and Opportunities
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Iraq is experiencing rapid population growth at an annual rate of approximately 2.5%, adding over one million people each year. The country’s population currently exceeds 46 million, according to the 2024 national census, with international projections estimating a rise to around 75 million by 2050.

Experts view this demographic surge as both a pressing challenge and a potential asset. While it places significant pressure on essential services such as healthcare, education, housing, and urban infrastructure, it also presents opportunities for economic growth—if managed strategically. Unemployment remains a concern, with an overall rate of about 15% and youth unemployment nearing one-third.

Specialists argue that Iraq could benefit from a demographic dividend by investing in vocational and technical education, increasing youth and female participation in the labor market, and diversifying the economy beyond oil. Rising consumer demand, driven by population growth, could also boost non-oil sectors such as trade, tourism, and light manufacturing.

However, natural resource strain—especially in water and energy—poses a major challenge. Climate change and rising consumption are expected to reduce per capita water availability to critical levels, while expanding population demands may further strain healthcare and education systems.

In response, Iraq launched its National Population Policy Document in 2024, outlining 11 key pillars, including healthcare, education, housing, youth empowerment, and climate adaptation, all integrated into the 2024–2028 five-year development plan. Analysts emphasize that leveraging population growth for national development requires a clear roadmap focused on education reform, job creation, infrastructure investment, and improved governance.