ERBIL — The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has declared a public holiday from November 15 to 23 to enable broad participation in Iraq’s upcoming national census. 

Announced during a Thursday Council of Ministers meeting, the holiday applies to all civil and military personnel, as well as students in schools, universities, and colleges.

However, the decision primarily impacts residents of areas affected by Article 140 of the Iraqi Constitution, which covers territories disputed between the Kurdistan Region and the Iraqi federal government. 

Private companies and organizations are also encouraged to grant employees from these areas time off to facilitate their census participation.

Scheduled for November 20, this national census, organized by Iraq’s Ministry of Planning, seeks to gather updated demographic information across Iraq, including in the Region and disputed territories. 

The data will play a crucial role in shaping future development plans, enhancing social services, and refining resource distribution throughout the country. Iraq’s population is expected to reach approximately 51.5 million by 2030.