Iraq continues pushing forward with job creation and local development. In a key move, the country welcomed a study visit focused on labour-intensive investment and public works. This event took place in Erbil and Duhok, bringing together Iraqi government officials and development partners.
The International Labour Organization (ILO) led this visit. They aimed to share practical knowledge on designing and running public works programs. These programs play a central role in offering jobs, especially in areas that need recovery and development.
Participants explored how other countries use labour-intensive investment to tackle unemployment. They reviewed case studies and learned how different approaches boost community services while creating immediate jobs. The ILO’s models from other nations helped inspire discussion about tailoring similar methods for Iraq’s specific needs.
This visit also let Iraq’s local and national actors share their own experiences. Officials highlighted success stories from past projects. They explained how they improved roads, water access, and public spaces through manual labor, all while employing local workers.
Such exchanges allow countries to adopt smarter, proven methods. Iraq hopes to reduce joblessness, especially among youth, by focusing on labour-intensive investment. These approaches also improve social protection by involving vulnerable groups like women and displaced people.
Furthermore, the study visit underlined the importance of community involvement. Local leaders stressed how public works projects build more than infrastructure—they build trust and inclusion. By hiring people from the area, these programs ensure long-term community benefit.
The ILO encouraged participants to scale up what works. They emphasized that public works should not only create short-term jobs but also lead to lasting improvements. With the right planning, labour-intensive projects can boost public services and economic resilience.
As a next step, the ILO and Iraq’s government will explore ways to expand these programs. They aim to secure funding, strengthen local capacity, and monitor impact. In doing so, they will promote both employment and infrastructure growth.
Overall, the study visit reinforced a shared goal. Iraq wants more people working and more communities thriving. Labour-intensive investment stands out as a practical and inclusive way to get there.