ERBIL — In a major step toward improving job security for public sector employees, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani approved on Saturday the permanentization of all contract employees across the Region, following the Council of Ministers' Meeting No. 140 on September 25.

This move grants permanent status to contract employees who meet the legal conditions and criteria established by the Iraqi federal government. The initiative is designed to enhance employment stability and ensure that eligible workers receive the same rights and benefits as permanent employees.

According to the decision, the financial allocation for these newly permanent employees will remain within the current budget approved by the Iraqi Ministry of Finance. Salaries for contract employees registered through the biometric system will be covered by the appointment budget, without adding financial strain on the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG).

Kurdistan Region Ministry of Finance and Economy has been assigned to oversee the implementation of this decision, ensuring all federal criteria are met. The regional ministry will coordinate with the federal ministry for the disbursement of funds.

This decision is a crucial step in improving the financial security of contract employees, aligning their employment conditions with those of permanent staff across the Kurdistan Region.