Country explorer: Iraq
EXPERIMENTAL
2024
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Overview
Iraq is a arid, upper-middle-income country in the Middle East with a medium-sized population. Its economy has been volatile in recent decades, and is based on oil, agriculture and manufacturing.
Iraq has a rich history dating back to ancient Mesopotamia.
Economy
Iraq's economy has undergone significant transformation, marked by fluctuating GDP per capita, varying degrees of poverty among its population, high levels of unemployment, and fluctuating inflation rates, revealing a nation grappling with economic instability yet demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity, a common storyline among nations recovering from conflict.
Demographics
Iraq has experienced significant demographic changes, characterized by a substantial population growth, volatile migration patterns influenced by conflict and political instability, a notable decrease in fertility rates yet remaining higher than many of its peers, and a gradual improvement in life expectancy despite historical disruptions.
Basic needs
Iraq has seen significant improvements in access to clean cooking fuels, electricity, and safely managed drinking water and sanitation, reflecting substantial progress in meeting basic needs compared to slower gains in some regional peers.
Human development
Iraq has faced significant challenges yet exhibited gradual improvements in human development, reflected by advancements in education and health despite fluctuating economic conditions, setting it apart with a unique trajectory of recovery and growth amidst regional conflicts and comparisons.
Environment & energy
Iraq has experienced a modest increase in forest area and renewable freshwater resources per capita, alongside a significant growth in CO2 emissions and a shift towards greener energy sources, reflecting efforts towards environmental sustainability amidst challenges common to Middle Eastern countries.
Technology & innovation
Iraq has seen a gradual but significant increase in technology and innovation indicators, such as internet usage and mobile phone subscriptions, although its research and development spending and scientific publication rates are modest compared to regional leaders, reflecting a focus on basic digital infrastructure and connectivity.
Culture & society
Iraq has experienced significant societal transformations characterized by modest increases in self-reported life satisfaction, a gradual improvement in gender equality despite high levels of inequality compared to its peers, and a steady age dependency ratio reflecting sustained demographic pressures.
Governance
Iraq has experienced significant fluctuations in governance indicators such as the rule of law, corruption perception, civil liberties, and press freedom, reflecting both periods of improvement and decline amidst ongoing challenges of conflict, political instability, and rebuilding efforts.