Economic Diversification

Economic Diversification

Overview

Iraq, an upper middle-income country, ranking 120 out of 189 countries on the 2018 human development index, is the most oil-dependent country globally. In 2018, hydrocarbon resources comprised 65% of its gross domestic product (GDP), near;y 100% of its exports, and more than 90% of central government revenues, but only 1% of total employment.

In Iraq, human development progress has been impeded by protracted conflict, compounded by poor governance, corruption, lack of investment in basic social services, poor economic management, and major internal divisions and societal fractures. Whilst some progress has been made toward national recovery and stabilization, the country, with more than half the population below 25 years, is faced with an economic challenge. Youth unemployment stands at 18 per cent, compared to the overall formal unemployment rate of 8.2 per cent, with women fairing significantly worse. Youth and women also have consistently lower labor force participation – 19 and 26 per cent respectively, compared with 74 per cent for men.

In order to promote an enabling environment, facilitating inclusive and diversified economic growth that benefits all citizens and move away from an oil dependent economy, UNDP supports the strengthening of business ecosystems, especially in high-impact, productive and labor-intensive sectors. UNDP provides support the Government of Iraq to implement its private sector development strategy (PSDS); designed to: