29-01-2025
Iraq launches initiatives to empower youth and boost entrepreneurship
Baghdad ( – In a landmark move to empower Iraq's youth and promote entrepreneurship, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani chaired the 7th meeting of the Supreme Council for Youth on Monday. The meeting, focused on key youth-oriented programs, approved several initiatives designed to foster economic growth, create opportunities, and enhance social inclusion for Iraq's younger generation.
Key initiatives approved by the council
Safe economic spaces for youth The council approved the establishment of 'safe economic spaces for youth,' with four hubs in Baghdad and two in each Iraqi province.
with and These spaces will serve as business incubators aimed at providing resources, mentorship, and a secure environment for young entrepreneurs to develop and expand their ideas. Iraq youth entrepreneurship forum Another major decision was the creation of the 'Iraq Youth Entrepreneurship Forum,' which will bring together 500 young entrepreneurs to represent their peers in dialogue with decision-makers.
which will bring together to represent their peers in dialogue with decision-makers. This forum will facilitate youth entry into the private sector and ensure their voices are heard when shaping policies affecting entrepreneurship and economic development. Climate change team expansion In a bid to engage youth in tackling climate challenges, the council approved increasing the membership of Iraq's National Youth Climate Change Team to 2,000 members.
to This initiative underscores the government's commitment to involving young Iraqis in global efforts to address climate issues. Supporting youth with disabilities The council prioritized inclusivity by approving measures to give persons with disabilities and special needs preference in appointing managers for departments dedicated to disability support.
preference in appointing managers for departments dedicated to disability support. This decision is a key step toward empowering marginalized groups and ensuring equal opportunities. Rebranding coordination committees The council rebranded the youth coordination committees to the 'Permanent Committee for Youth Support and Care,' which will now work directly with ministers in collaboration with the Supreme Council for Youth.
Strategic initiatives for development and awareness
In line with the government's focus on national development, the council launched additional initiatives:
National development awareness campaign: A campaign was approved to raise awareness about Iraq's development plans and train facilitators to promote these strategies across the country.
Youth programs and sports investments: The council approved the annual plan for 2025 youth and sports activities, presented by the Ministry of Youth and Sports. The National Youth Program Competition results were also ratified, further encouraging innovation and participation among Iraq's youth.
Accountability for youth investments: The Financial Audit Bureau was tasked with preparing a report on investments in youth and sports facilities. The findings will be discussed to optimize resource allocation and make informed decisions.
Progress in global youth development rankings
Members of Iraq's National Youth Climate Change Team participating in environmental initiatives
The council highlighted Iraq's progress in the Global Youth Development Index for 2024, attributed to initiatives and programs launched by the Supreme Council for Youth since its establishment. The Prime Minister expressed optimism that the newly approved initiatives would further accelerate Iraq's growth in youth development indicators and enhance the nation's global standing.
Empowering Iraq's youth: A vision for the future
Prime Minister Al-Sudani emphasized the importance of youth in Iraq's development, stating that these programs are part of the government's broader vision to:
Create opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
Promote inclusivity and equality.
Develop Iraq's private sector as a driver for economic growth.
The government's comprehensive approach to youth empowerment reflects its commitment to building a future where young Iraqis have the tools, resources, and platforms to thrive.
The 7th meeting of the Supreme Council for Youth marked a significant step toward empowering Iraq's younger generation. From creating safe economic spaces to launching the Iraq Youth Entrepreneurship Forum, these initiatives aim to foster innovation, economic growth, and social inclusion.
As Iraq moves forward with its development agenda, the government's dedication to supporting its youth ensures a brighter future, driven by the creativity, resilience, and determination of its younger generation.
