The Iraqi government has outlined new measures aimed at strengthening government support for poor families through social welfare programs.
At the same time, the Central Bank of Iraq confirmed the continuation of housing and solar energy loan initiatives, particularly within residential complexes.
The steps form part of broader policies to support low income households and improve living conditions across the country.
Two mechanisms to include poor families in social welfare aid
The Ministry of Planning announced that two approved mechanisms are used to include poor families in social welfare aid, in coordination with the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs.
Ministry spokesperson Abdul Zahra al Hindawi told the Iraqi News Agency INA that the first mechanism involves sending social researchers to families or individuals being considered for inclusion.
Researchers collect detailed economic and social data using approved assessment forms.
Assessing eligibility based on the poverty line
Al Hindawi explained that the collected data is sent to the Ministry of Planning and the Central Organization for Statistics and Geographic Information Systems.
A specialized statistical system evaluates the data using weighted indicators to determine whether a family or individual falls below or above the poverty line.
Families and individuals found to be below the poverty line are included in financial assistance programs, while those above it are not.
The final results are then returned to the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs.
Poverty map and latest social survey findings
The Ministry of Labor also relies on the official poverty map prepared by the Ministry of Planning, based on population census data and periodic social and economic surveys.
Al Hindawi noted that the most recent survey was conducted in late 2024 and early 2025.
It identified the poorest areas at the governorate, district, and sub district levels, allowing social researchers to directly target the most vulnerable communities.
Data protection and coded records
He added that all beneficiary data is transferred in coded form without explicit names.
The information is handled through numerical or alphabetical identifiers to ensure privacy and data protection in line with approved procedures.
Central Bank confirms continued housing and solar energy loans
Alongside social welfare measures, the Central Bank of Iraq reaffirmed its commitment to continuing housing and solar energy loan initiatives.
Rafal Hussein, Director of Initiatives at the Central Bank, said in comments monitored by Iraq Observer that several financing programs remain active.
These include loans for purchasing solar energy systems, as well as housing fund loans and mortgage loans issued through the Real Estate Bank.
Loans within residential complexes and application process
Hussein stated that loans remain available within residential complexes and are granted according to bank lending policies and approved regulations.
She explained that financing outside residential complexes depends on loans funded by recovered funds, which are issued in smaller amounts compared to other programs.
The Central Bank continues to support the liquidity of the Real Estate Bank to ensure loan availability.
When financial allocations are announced, applications are submitted through the government’s Ur electronic platform, in line with official procedures.
Conclusion:
These combined measures reflect the Iraqi government’s approach to balancing direct social assistance for poor families with financing options for housing and renewable energy.
The initiatives aim to improve living standards and enhance economic stability for vulnerable segments of society.
