Iraq Concludes National Consultation with UN to Shape Vision for World Summit on Social Development

The Government of Iraq, in close partnership with the United Nations, has concluded a two-day national consultation aimed at shaping the country's unified position for the Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2), scheduled to take place in Doha, State of Qatar, from 4–6 November 2025.

Held on 20–21 October 2025, the consultations brought together senior government officials, UN agencies, and international partners to articulate Iraq's priorities for advancing inclusive social protection, poverty reduction, and equitable development.

Building a Unified National Vision for Social Justice

The national consultations were convened under the leadership of the Ministry of Planning and the UN Resident Coordinator's Office in Iraq, with technical support from the World Food Programme (WFP), the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). The event also included the participation of representatives from the European Union, one of Iraq's principal partners in strengthening social protection systems.

High-level officials from the Ministries of Planning, Labour and Social Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Education, Youth and Sports, and Environment took part in the discussions, reflecting the government's commitment to a whole-of-government approach in tackling social and economic challenges.

The consultation culminated in a set of commitments and policy priorities that will serve as Iraq's strategic contribution to the global dialogue at WSSD2.

"Iraq enters the World Summit for Social Development with one strong, unified national vision — focused on social justice, expanding opportunities for youth and women, and strengthening institutions to serve all citizens, in close cooperation with our partners from the United Nations and the international community," said H.E. Dr. Mohammed Ali Tamim, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning.

A Renewed Commitment to Inclusive Social Protection

This nationally led process underscores Iraq's leadership role in advancing universal social protection, particularly as a tool for poverty eradication, food security, and social inclusion.

Mr. Ghulam Mohammad Isaczai, UN Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Resident Coordinator, and Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq, praised the collaborative spirit that defined the consultations:

"These consultations were essential for building a shared national vision. Iraq now goes to Doha with one strong voice — reflecting both its achievements and its ambitions for the future."

The consultation process was also designed to align Iraq's social protection agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and with the UN's commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind.

Iraq's Reform Agenda and Social Protection Achievements

Iraq's participation in WSSD2 comes at a historic milestone — thirty years after the 1995 Copenhagen World Summit for Social Development — at a time when global leaders are re-committing to inclusive and equitable growth.

Over the past few years, Iraq has taken bold steps to strengthen its social safety nets and expand access to protection services for millions of citizens. Key achievements include:

• Poverty reduction programmes targeting vulnerable populations and post-conflict recovery areas;

• Expansion of social safety nets to reach over 7.6 million people;

• Ratification of ILO Convention No. 102 on Minimum Standards of Social Security, reinforcing Iraq's commitment to rights-based social protection;

• Enactment of a new Pensions and Social Security Law aligned with international norms;

• Doubling of social security coverage within four years, marking a major milestone in equitable economic reform.

These reforms represent a paradigm shift toward a comprehensive and integrated social protection system that combines social insurance, labour rights, and targeted assistance for vulnerable groups — including children, women, persons with disabilities, and low-income households.

From Food Distribution to Human Development

Building on its decades-long experience managing one of the world's largest public food distribution systems, Iraq is now moving toward a more integrated model that links food security with long-term human development outcomes. The government's new vision emphasizes nutrition-sensitive policies, early childhood development, and inclusive access to education and health services.

"Social protection is no longer just about assistance — it is about empowerment, resilience, and opportunity," said an official from the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. "We are transitioning from crisis-driven safety nets to sustainable systems that protect and uplift people."

Preparing for the World Summit for Social Development 2025

The Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2), to be hosted in Doha, Qatar, will bring together world leaders, civil society, and development partners to renew global commitments to social justice, equality, and human well-being. The 2025 Summit will revisit the principles of the 1995 Copenhagen Declaration, expanding the focus on inclusive growth, social protection, decent work, and digital equity in an era of rapid change.

At WSSD2, Iraq will showcase its progressive social protection reforms, particularly its integration of labour market resilience, digital inclusion, and gender equality policies. Iraq's delegation will also emphasize the country's progress toward economic diversification, youth empowerment, and post-conflict recovery through social investment.

High-Level Side Event: From Reform to Impact

During the Summit, Iraq will co-host a high-level side event titled "From Reform to Impact: Governments Paving a New Era of Universal Social Protection for Food Security and Nutrition," on 4 November 2025. The event will be organized in partnership with the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, the UN, and other international partners.

This session will highlight Iraq's leadership in advancing social protection reforms, and its efforts to link food security and nutrition with broader goals of inclusive, sustainable development. It will also feature the experiences of countries implementing integrated social protection strategies as a pathway to achieving SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).

Strengthening Partnerships for the Future

The United Nations and its agencies — including the WFP, ILO, and UNICEF — reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Iraq's roadmap toward WSSD2 and beyond. Technical support will continue throughout the lead-up to the Summit, ensuring Iraq's contributions are well-coordinated and impactful.

The consultations mark an important step in Iraq's long-term vision for inclusive development and social justice, reflecting both national ownership and international solidarity. As Iraq heads to Doha, it does so as a nation committed to reform, resilience, and equity — determined to ensure that social protection remains the foundation of a fair and prosperous future for all its citizens.