ERBIL — The rate of addiction to electronic games and social media networks in Iraq has reached a concerning 75 percent, according to a new report from the Iraqi Strategic Center for Human Rights.

The alarming figures highlight the growing challenge of digital addiction in the country, with significant implications for the mental health and daily lives of users.

Fazel Gharawi, the president of the Iraqi Strategic Center for Human Rights, shared the findings in a statement on Tuesday. Citing international reports, Gharawi noted that approximately 6% of the global population suffers from digital addiction.

Worldwide, there are 4.66 billion active digital users, of which 4.32 billion use mobile phones, and 4.2 billion engage with social media platforms. On average, users spend about 6.7 hours online each day.

In Iraq, the situation is particularly dire, with a study conducted by the Iraqi Ministry of Health revealing that about 25% of adolescents exhibit symptoms of electronic game addiction.

These symptoms include a loss of control over time spent online and feelings of anxiety or depression when disconnected from digital devices. The National Center for Social Research also reported that electronic game addiction accounts for 40% of addiction cases in the country, followed by social media addiction, which constitutes 35% of cases.

The Iraqi Ministry of Communications has also raised concerns, stating that 75% of internet users in the country spend excessive time on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

This overuse of digital platforms is negatively impacting their daily lives, contributing to the growing problem of electronic addiction.

Gharawi emphasized the need for immediate action from the Iraqi federal government and relevant state institutions. He called for the launch of awareness campaigns to educate the public about the dangers of cyber addiction and the importance of balancing digital engagement with real-life interactions.

Addressing this issue, he stressed, is critical to safeguarding the mental health and well-being of Iraq's digital users, particularly the younger population.