Iraq’s First Child Protection Initiative

In partnership with the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, the Ministry of Health and UNICEF Iraq has launched Iraq’s first Child Benefit initiative in Muthanna, Iraq. The initiative will provide vital support to 7,000 vulnerable children and expectant mothers, marking a key step toward establishing an integrated social protection system in Iraq.

Funded by the European Union, the project is part of a larger effort to improve Iraq’s social safety net, combat poverty and improve health outcomes. It aligns with Iraq’s National Development Plan (2024-2028), which aims to overhaul social protection and improve health services for families.

Muthanna is one of Iraq’s poorest regions, and faces severe health challenges, including high rates of child malnutrition. This initiative aims to address these issues by offering cash assistance and connecting families with essential health services, specifically targeting pregnant women and children under 2.

The Prime Minister’s Advisor, Dr. Sanaa Al-Moussawi, emphasised that this pilot programme lays the groundwork for a nationwide social protection model. 

The EU and UNICEF also stressed the critical role of this initiative in improving health outcomes and providing vulnerable families with a dignified life. This pilot project will be a model for significant improvements to Iraq, ensuring a stronger, more inclusive social protection system.

Source: UNICEF Iraq