Employment Policy Convention, 1964 (No. 122) - Iraq (Ratification: 1970)

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2022, published 111st ILC session (2023)

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Implementation of an active employment policy. Coordinating employment policy with poverty reduction strategies. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in relation to cases or lawsuits brought by workers against employers with respect to the application of the provisions of the Convention. The Government also refers to the development of a hotline and an online complaints mechanism to enable workers to report violations of the labour legislation and file complaints. In respect of job creation and poverty reduction, the Government indicates that pursuant to section 6 of Labour Law No. 37 (2015), the State is required to adopt policies to promote full and productive employment. To this end, a High Committee for Planning and Employment of the Labour Force (the High Committee) was established on 15 August 2021, pursuant to Ministerial Order No. 1640 and in accordance with Instruction No. 11 of 2017. The High Committee is responsible for planning, formulation, implementation and follow-up in relation to the employment policy and vocational training programmes (section 17 I of the Labour Law). The Committee notes that the High Committee is currently developing a new national employment policy, which aims to ensure the integration of young adults into the labour market by providing them with training in skills which are in high demand. In respect of employment promotion, the Government indicates that the activities of the Employment Office are regulated under section 19 of the Labour Law which specifies that the employer is bound to inform the regional employment office of vacancies available and submit a request within 10 days to the Employment Office specifying the type of work offered and the qualifications required. The Employment Office may propose suitable candidates from the pool of registered jobseekers within 15 days, after which time the employer may proceed to hire a worker directly (section 21 of the Labour Law). The Committee notes with interest that the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and the ILO have signed the first Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP 2019-2023) for Iraq. The DWCP focuses on strengthening the country’s capacity to include the principles of decent work in its socio-economic policies aimed at achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as well as creating job opportunities in the private sector, combating the worst forms of child labour, improving governance and mechanisms for social dialogue. The Government indicates that the signature of the DWCP 2019-2023, together with the measures taken by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, through its relevant offices, to implement the national employment policy and the poverty reduction strategy will contribute to the social and economic development of Iraq by furthering the application of international labour standards and national labour legislation, as well as promoting social dialogue, social justice and decent work. The Government is further requested to provide information on the progress made in the development of the new national employment policy and on the manner in which consultation with the social partners and their participation in this process is ensured.

Employment of women and young persons. The Committee notes the statistics provided by the Government, according to which, as of August 2020, there were 1,512,463 registered jobseekers in Iraq (1,281,470 men and 230,993 women). It further notes that, according to the DWCP, female labour force participation in Iraq, estimated at 20 per cent, is low. Iraqi women who do participate in the labour market are also more likely to be unemployed, under-employed or employed in part-time jobs. Young women appear to be facing particular challenges in finding employment. In 2016, 65 per cent of young women were unemployed, compared to 32 per cent of young men. With respect to employment opportunities for young persons, the Committee notes that, according to the DWCP, youth unemployment is around 36 per cent, compared to the overall national unemployment rate of 16 per cent. The youth participation rate (15-24 years) has also declined from 52.5 to 34 per cent since 2014. It further notes that, of seven million Iraqi young women and men, over 3.4 million are not in school and only 7 per cent have completed post-secondary education. As a result, many young Iraqis lack the skills necessary to find a job in a fragile, post-conflict economy. The Committee requests the Government to provide updated information, including statistical information disaggregated by age and sex, on the impact of employment policy measures taken by the High Committee in terms of job creation and integration of women, youth and persons with disabilities, into the labour market.In addition, the Committee requests the Government to provide information regarding measures taken to promote the employment of women, especially young women, whose participation in the labour force remains low compared to their male counterparts.

Education and training policies. The Government reports that vocational training and employment are regulated by the High Committee for Planning and Employment of the Labour Force. The Committee notes the statistical data provided by the Government, indicating that 323 persons have participated in training courses (100 male and 223 female). It further notes that the Government does not provide any information on the number of trainees who have found lasting employment after completing their training. The Government adds that coordination between training and employment programmes is currently underway within the occupational units and that an initial agreement has been reached on conducting an economic feasibility study on labour market needs and skills demands in general. The Government further indicates that effective coordination has been established between vocational guidance, training and employment programmes that are carried out in eight vocational training centres. In this regard, the Government refers to career training programmes, in particular in the health sector and food industry. In carrying out the programmes, coordination is ensured with the labour market actors in the local administrations to ensure that the programmes respond to the needs of the labour market. The Government reports that vocational guidance and training at four of the eight training programmes have been fully completed, and four others are still ongoing. It further notes that training programmes in the health sector, in particular the health administration, is one field that has attracted a high number of candidates and provided for the highest employment percentage of trainees in health institutions. The Committee also requests the Government to continue providing information on the impact of the coordination of vocational education and training policies with the specific needs of the labour market, particularly in terms of the lasting integration of jobseekers in employment. It also requests the Government to indicate the measures taken or envisaged to provide education and training to specific groups, such as underprivileged young women and persons with disabilities, with a view to improving their employability. The Committee further requests the Government to indicate the manner in which the social partners and other stakeholders concerned are consulted with respect to the development, implementation and review of education and vocational training programmes that meet the needs of the labour market.

Article 2. Collection and analysis of employment data. The Government indicates that the Ministry of Planning and its offices are responsible for providing unemployment figures and rates in Iraq. It adds that the only statistics currently available are related to the number of jobseekers, disaggregated by sex. The Committee requests the Government to provide detailed information on the measures taken to improve its labour market information system, including the manner in which the data collected is used in designing, implementing and reviewing employment policy measures. It also requests the Government to supply updated labour market information on the situation, level and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment, disaggregated by age and sex. The Committee reminds the Government that it may avail itself of the technical assistance of the Office and hopes that it will be able to observe progress in this regard in the near future.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of employment policies. The Government indicates that the High Committee for the Planning and Employment of the Labour Force is a tripartite institution composed of representatives from relevant ministries, and the most representative workers’ and employers’ organizations. It operates under the chairmanship of the Minister of Labour and Social Affairs. The Government further indicates that the General Federation of Workers’ Unions in Iraq and the Iraqi Federation of Industries are members of the Tripartite Advisory Committee, which is responsible for the submission of the reports requested from the Government of Iraq and is provided with copies of the present reports. The Government adds that the lack of observations from workers’ and employers’ organizations is explained by the fact that the report is prepared by the Tripartite Advisory Committee. The Committee requests the Government to provide updated information in its next report on the manner in which account is taken of the opinions and experiences of the social partners within the High Committee for Planning and Employment of the Labour Force. The Government is invited to provide concrete examples in this regard.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2020, published 109th ILC session (2021)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report has not been received. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Implementation of an active employment policy. Coordinating employment policy with poverty reduction strategies. In its previous comments, the Committee invited the Government to provide information on the impact of active employment policy measures taken to create jobs and reduce poverty. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain information on this point. The Committee therefore reiterates its request that the Government provide updated information, including statistical information disaggregated by age and sex, on the impact of active employment policy measures taken in terms of job creation and poverty reduction. It also reiterates its request that the Government provide updated information on the impact of measures adopted to promote the integration into the labour market of the unemployed, including women, young persons and persons with disabilities.

Education and training policies. The Committee previously requested the Government to provide information on the manner in which it ensures effective coordination between training programmes and employment, and to provide statistical information on training programmes and on the number of participants obtaining lasting employment once the training is completed. The Committee notes the statistics provided by the Government indicating that the number of training centres in Baghdad and other governorates (except Kurdistan) have increased from 34 to 38 centres, and that 401 training workshops were held at the centres during the reporting period. The Government adds that 71 training curricula have been prepared for computer-based training, and that three programmes are being implemented in the training centres: Know About Business; Business innovation; and Life Skills. Referring to its 2014 comments on the implementation of the Human Resources Development Convention, 1975, (No. 142), the Committee once again requests the Government to provide information in its next report on Convention No. 122 indicating the manner in which it ensures effective coordination between its vocational guidance and training programmes and its employment programmes, and to provide detailed information on the content of training programmes, as well as statistical data disaggregated by age and sex on the number of participants obtaining lasting employment following completion of their training. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that vocational guidance and training educational curricula and training content are coordinated with existing and anticipated employment opportunities, to meet the current and evolving needs of the labour market.

Article 2. Collection and analysis of employment data. The Committee previously requested the Government to provide updated statistics on the employment situation and trends. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the information is not available. The Committee therefore reiterates its request that the Government provide updated statistics, disaggregated by age and sex, on the situation and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment in the formal and informal economies as soon as this information becomes available.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. The Government indicates that pursuant to section 17 of the Labour Code No. 37 of 2015, the Ministry of Labour has prepared draft instructions regarding the creation of the High Committee for Planning and Employment of the Labour Force, a tripartite committee mandated to formulate public policy on employment and vocational training. The Committee requests the Government to provide updated information in its next report on the establishment and activities of the High Committee for Planning and Employment of the Labour Force.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2019, published 109th ILC session (2021)

The Committee notes that the Government’s report contains no reply to its previous comments. It hopes that the next report will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous comments.

Repetition

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Implementation of an active employment policy. Coordinating employment policy with poverty reduction strategies. In its previous comments, the Committee invited the Government to provide information on the impact of active employment policy measures taken to create jobs and reduce poverty. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain information on this point. The Committee therefore reiterates its request that the Government provide updated information, including statistical information disaggregated by age and sex, on the impact of active employment policy measures taken in terms of job creation and poverty reduction. It also reiterates its request that the Government provide updated information on the impact of measures adopted to promote the integration into the labour market of the unemployed, including women, young persons and persons with disabilities.

Education and training policies. The Committee previously requested the Government to provide information on the manner in which it ensures effective coordination between training programmes and employment, and to provide statistical information on training programmes and on the number of participants obtaining lasting employment once the training is completed. The Committee notes the statistics provided by the Government indicating that the number of training centres in Baghdad and other governorates (except Kurdistan) have increased from 34 to 38 centres, and that 401 training workshops were held at the centres during the reporting period. The Government adds that 71 training curricula have been prepared for computer-based training, and that three programmes are being implemented in the training centres: Know About Business; Business innovation; and Life Skills. Referring to its 2014 comments on the implementation of the Human Resources Development Convention, 1975, (No. 142), the Committee once again requests the Government to provide information in its next report on Convention No. 122 indicating the manner in which it ensures effective coordination between its vocational guidance and training programmes and its employment programmes, and to provide detailed information on the content of training programmes, as well as statistical data disaggregated by age and sex on the number of participants obtaining lasting employment following completion of their training. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that vocational guidance and training educational curricula and training content are coordinated with existing and anticipated employment opportunities, to meet the current and evolving needs of the labour market.

Article 2. Collection and analysis of employment data. The Committee previously requested the Government to provide updated statistics on the employment situation and trends. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the information is not available. The Committee therefore reiterates its request that the Government provide updated statistics, disaggregated by age and sex, on the situation and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment in the formal and informal economies as soon as this information becomes available.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. The Government indicates that pursuant to section 17 of the Labour Code No. 37 of 2015, the Ministry of Labour has prepared draft instructions regarding the creation of the High Committee for Planning and Employment of the Labour Force, a tripartite committee mandated to formulate public policy on employment and vocational training. The Committee requests the Government to provide updated information in its next report on the establishment and activities of the High Committee for Planning and Employment of the Labour Force.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2017, published 107th ILC session (2018)

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Implementation of an active employment policy. Coordinating employment policy with poverty reduction strategies. In its previous comments, the Committee invited the Government to provide information on the impact of active employment policy measures taken to create jobs and reduce poverty. The Committee notes that the Government’s report does not contain information on this point. The Committee therefore reiterates its request that the Government provide updated information, including statistical information disaggregated by age and sex, on the impact of active employment policy measures taken in terms of job creation and poverty reduction. It also reiterates its request that the Government provide updated information on the impact of measures adopted to promote the integration into the labour market of the unemployed, including women, young persons and persons with disabilities.

Education and training policies. The Committee previously requested the Government to provide information on the manner in which it ensures effective coordination between training programmes and employment, and to provide statistical information on training programmes and on the number of participants obtaining lasting employment once the training is completed. The Committee notes the statistics provided by the Government indicating that the number of training centres in Baghdad and other governorates (except Kurdistan) have increased from 34 to 38 centres, and that 401 training workshops were held at the centres during the reporting period. The Government adds that 71 training curricula have been prepared for computer-based training, and that three programmes are being implemented in the training centres: Know About Business; Business innovation; and Life Skills. Referring to its 2014 comments on the implementation of the Human Resources Development Convention, 1975, (No. 142), the Committee once again requests the Government to provide information in its next report on Convention No. 122 indicating the manner in which it ensures effective coordination between its vocational guidance and training programmes and its employment programmes, and to provide detailed information on the content of training programmes, as well as statistical data disaggregated by age and sex on the number of participants obtaining lasting employment following completion of their training. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken or envisaged to ensure that vocational guidance and training educational curricula and training content are coordinated with existing and anticipated employment opportunities, to meet the current and evolving needs of the labour market.

Article 2. Collection and analysis of employment data. The Committee previously requested the Government to provide updated statistics on the employment situation and trends. The Committee notes the Government’s statement that the information is not available. The Committee therefore reiterates its request that the Government provide updated statistics, disaggregated by age and sex, on the situation and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment in the formal and informal economies as soon as this information becomes available.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. The Government indicates that pursuant to section 17 of the Labour Code No. 37 of 2015, the Ministry of Labour has prepared draft instructions regarding the creation of the High Committee for Planning and Employment of the Labour Force, a tripartite committee mandated to formulate public policy on employment and vocational training. The Committee requests the Government to provide updated information in its next report on the establishment and activities of the High Committee for Planning and Employment of the Labour Force.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2014, published 104th ILC session (2015)

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Implementation of an active employment policy. Coordinating employment policy with poverty reduction. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its report received in October 2013 concerning efforts of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MoLSA) to modify the institutional approach to employment. Consequently, the National High Commission for Employment and Vocational Training was set up under the chairmanship of MoLSA. With regard to the implementation of the National Employment Policy 2011–14, the Government indicates that some of its achievements include supporting small projects for numerous categories of unemployed persons, including persons with disabilities, supporting the private sector and providing institutional support to the vocational training centres and employment offices. With regard to poverty reduction, the Committee notes the information provided by the Government that 168 billion dinars (IQD) were allocated to the MoLSA under its poverty reduction strategy in order to provide small loans to targeted groups of the poor and socially vulnerable population to support small income-generating projects. The Committee invites the Government to provide information on the impact of its active employment policy in terms of job creation and poverty reduction. It also invites the Government to provide information on the impact of the measures adopted to promote the integration into the labour market of the unemployed, including women, young persons and persons with disabilities.

Education and training policies. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government concerning the expansion of training activities, including information on the number of training centres which has reached 34 in addition to three training centres that are under construction. It also notes that packages of training curricula were completed and additional ones are being developed. Moreover, the “Know About Business” programme was launched to provide the unemployed with skills and information to establish their own projects and encourage self-employment. In June 2013, there were 382 trainees who completed the programme. Furthermore, a training programme at work was launched with over a thousand private sector job and training opportunities available to individuals with lower qualifications. The Committee notes however that the programme has stopped, pending the promulgation of a special regulation. Referring to its comments on the application of the Human Resources Development Convention, 1975 (No. 142), the Committee invites the Government to provide in its next report on Convention No. 122 information on the manner in which it ensures effective coordination between training programmes and employment. Please also provide further details on training programmes and supply disaggregated data on the number of participants obtaining lasting employment once the training is completed. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the measures taken to ensure that educational curricula and training content is coordinated with existing and anticipated employment opportunities.

Article 2. Collection and analysis of employment data. The Committee notes the statistics provided regarding the situation of unemployment as at 31 July 2013. It notes in particular that 579,649 persons were registered at the employment centres, out of which 116,318 were illiterate. The Committee invites the Government to provide updated statistics, disaggregated as much as possible, on the situation and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment in both the formal and the informal economy.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners in the formulation and application of policies. The Government indicates that the National High Commission for Employment and Vocational Training consists of more than 16 bodies which represent relevant ministries and employers’ and workers’ organizations. It adds that the National High Commission plays a guiding role in following up on the aims of the National Employment Policy. The Committee requests the Government to provide information on consultations held with representatives of employers and workers, including within the National High Commission for Employment and Vocational Training, on the formulation and implementation of employment policies and programmes.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2012, published 102nd ILC session (2013)

Articles 1, 2 and 3 of the Convention. Implementation of an active employment policy. Participation of the social partners. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its reports supplied in September 2011 and March 2012. It notes the National Employment Policy (NEP) that was formulated by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MoLSA) with the assistance of the ILO and adopted in 2011, attached to the Government’s report. The Government indicates that during a roundtable held in 2011 in collaboration with the ILO, the National High Commission for Employment and Vocational Training made various recommendations regarding the priorities for the implementation of the NEP for the 2011–14 period. Recommendations focused on, inter alia, the coherence between the NEP implementation and the Poverty Reduction Strategy, the establishment of a legal framework for implementing the NEP, the coordination between relevant stakeholders, the organization of various promotional activities in collaboration with the ILO, the strengthening and modernization of employment-related and vocational training services. The National High Commission also encouraged the participation of social partners in the implementation of the NEP, as well as the free and independent election of members within the most representative employers’ and workers’ organizations. The Government indicates that in the Governorate of Baghdad there were 453,310 unemployed persons in the 2003–11 period. The Committee invites the Government to include information in its next report on the implementation of the NEP and its impact in terms of promoting full, productive and lasting employment. The Committee also requests the Government to provide information on the follow-up to the recommendations of the National High Commission for Employment and Vocational Training.

Coordination of education and training policy with employment policy. The Government indicates that in implementing the NEP, modern competency-based training programmes were developed to provide skilled manpower covering labour market needs. Referring to its comments formulated in 2009 on the Human Resources Development Convention, 1975 (No. 142), the Committee invites the Government to provide information in its next report on Convention No. 122 on the way in which it ensures effective coordination between the programmes of vocational training and employment. Please also provide further details on training programmes and supply disaggregated data on the number of participants in these trainings and of those obtaining lasting employment following their attendance of these programmes.

Promotion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The Government indicates that a bill prepared by the MoLSA and pending Government approval encourages the establishment of SMEs. It further indicates that a programme launched by the MoLSA to provide loans at preferential rates for small projects in the Baghdad area, with the objective of poverty reduction and the empowerment of deprived social groups, was implemented between 2007 and 2008. The programme benefited approximately 73,500 of the 250,000 persons registered. Women comprised less than 10 per cent of the beneficiaries and the majority of beneficiaries were made up of illiterate persons, the vulnerable and the socially excluded. The Government indicates that the programme was expected to be expanded and cover all governorates (except Kurdistan) at a budget of US$612 million. The Committee invites the Government to include in its next report information on continuing measures taken to support the establishment of SMEs and their results in terms of reducing poverty and stimulating productive employment.

Measures to promote the employment of specific categories of workers. The Government indicates that, due to the current lack of funds, no additional projects may be implemented, which has led to the suspension of activities in almost the whole country. In its 2010 General Survey concerning employment instruments, the Committee recalled that member States should make the best possible effort, in relation to their level of development and economic capacity, to achieve and maintain full employment. This includes, among others, that targeted programmes are being deployed to overcome handicaps faced by vulnerable groups of workers and to remove labour market discrimination (paragraph 516 of the 2010 General Survey, also available in Arabic). The Committee invites the Government to include in its next report information on the impact of the measures adopted in cooperation with the social partners, representatives of the most vulnerable and marginalized groups of the active population and other relevant stakeholders at the national and international levels, to promote the integration into the labour market of specific categories of workers, such as women, young persons, older workers and workers with disabilities.

Article 2. Collection and analysis of employment data. The Committee notes that the statistics provided by the Government on unemployment and employment levels in the Governorate of Baghdad refer to the period 2003–11 as a whole. It also notes that among the 2011 recommendations of the National High Commission for Employment and Vocational Training some focused on the enhancement of the labour market information system within the public employment service and the preparation of a labour force survey in collaboration with the ILO. The Committee invites the Government to provide in its next report updated statistics, disaggregated as much as possible, on the situation and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment in both the formal and the informal economy.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2010, published 100th ILC session (2011)

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Implementation of an active employment policy. The Committee notes the information provided by the Government in its report supplied in September 2009, in reply to the 2008 direct request. The Government indicates that it is working in coordination with the ILO, the social partners and a specialized technical team with the participation of university professors. The work of this team is intended to prepare a national employment policy and to implement a special framework for vocational education and training. The Committee invites the Government to include information in its next report on the progress achieved in the formulation and implementation of a national employment policy, and of the special framework for vocational education and training. The Committee also invites the Government to include updated information on the impact of the measures adopted for the creation of productive employment in the context of the Poverty Reduction Strategy.

The Committee notes the Private Sector Development Programme, prepared in coordination with several United Nations agencies, intended to establish a dynamic framework for action for the development of the private sector. The programme is essentially intended to develop and increase employment opportunities through the promotion of a legal environment that is conducive to the creation of enterprises, including small and medium-sized enterprises. In the General Survey of 2010 on employment instruments, the Committee emphasizes that the Job Creation in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Recommendation, 1998 (No. 189), provides a specific framework to ensure that small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as micro-enterprises, create jobs in compliance with international labour standards. In this respect, the Committee invites the Government to include information in its next report on the measures adopted in order to “create an environment conducive to the growth and development of small and medium-sized enterprises” (see Paragraph 5 of Recommendation No. 189).

Measures to promote the employment of specific categories of workers. The Government indicates that special funds have been allocated to grant loans to around 100,000 jobseekers, including young persons, graduates, displaced persons and families that have suffered damage. Similarly, 93,000 projects have been undertaken up to now in various regions of the country, which have generated over 120,000 jobs. The Government adds that the community rehabilitation programme intended for the most vulnerable categories of workers, such as the disabled and the widows and wives of disabled workers, is still being implemented, and that loans have been granted to these categories of workers to facilitate the launching of small-scale projects. The Government indicates that these projects are monitored to ensure their effectiveness and to provide economic support for them. The Committee invites the Government to include more detailed information in its next report on the impact of the measures adopted for specific categories of workers, such as women, young persons, older workers and workers with disabilities, in terms of their integration into the labour market.

Article 2. Collection and analysis of employment data. The Government indicates that efforts are being made in coordination with the Central Statistical Office to assess labour market needs in relation to vocational guidance and training. The Committee invites the Government to provide detailed statistics in its next report on the situation and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment in both the formal and the informal economy.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners. The Government indicates that a meeting of the National High Commission for Employment and Vocational Training was held on 4–5 January 2009 to review its work and to prepare recommendations for submission to the Secretariat of the Council of Ministers which, in turn, transmits them to other ministries for necessary measures to be taken. The Committee invites the Government to indicate in its next report the recommendations made by the National High Commission for Employment and Vocational Training on the subjects covered by the Convention. It also requests the Government to provide additional information on the participation of the social partners in the design and implementation of employment policies.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 2008, published 98th ILC session (2009)

The Committee notes the information provided in the Government’s report received in September 2008. The Government indicates that, in addition to support from the United Nations agencies, there are ongoing cooperation programmes, and it is receiving support from the ILO aimed at strengthening national capacities in employment and vocational training aimed at human capital development. The Committee looks forward to receiving information in the Government next’s report on the measures taken to develop and implement an active employment policy within the meaning of the Convention, with the assistance of the ILO and other international agencies, and the results thereof. The Government is also invited to include information on the following matters in its next report.

Articles 1 and 2 of the Convention. Labour market policies. The Government indicates that unemployed persons are registered at employment offices located throughout the country, and their information is compiled on a database. An employment programme is prepared for these jobseekers, by identifying job opportunities and providing small loans to facilitating the setting up of income generating projects. Efforts are also made to secure job opportunities for persons with special needs, and awarding grants to some categories of jobseekers for a specified period. The Committee requests the Government to provide information in its next report on the achievements of such employment programmes in terms of employment generation, and the manner in which the programmes are kept under review within the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy. The Government is also asked to provide information on how it intends to strengthen the employment offices in order to meet the needs of vulnerable categories of workers such as women, young people, older workers and people with disabilities.

Article 2. The Government is asked to provide more precise information in its next report on the efforts made to improve its capacity to assess the situation of, and trends in, employment, unemployment, and underemployment, both in the formal and informal economy.

Article 3. Participation of the social partners. The Government indicates in its report that there is an exchange of views on employment policies, between representatives from different Ministries and representatives of employers’ and workers’ organizations, through a higher national committee presided by the Minister of Labour and Social Affairs. The Committee would welcome further information on the consultations held with representatives of the social partners both at the stage of the formulation of employment policies and in relation to the implementation of the measures adopted under such policies.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2002, published 91st ILC session (2003)

The Committee notes that the Government, in its report received in June 2002, repeats the brief statement already sent in its previous communication. The Committee again asks the Government to provide information which will enable it to ascertain to what extent an active policy of promoting full, productive and freely chosen employment is formulated and applied in the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy and in consultation with all the persons affected, in accordance with Articles 1, 2 and 3 of the Convention. The Committee expresses the hope that the Government will not fail to submit a detailed report that responds to all of the points raised in the report form adopted by the Governing Body.

Observation (CEACR) - adopted 2001, published 90th ILC session (2002)

In its previous comments the Committee asked the Government to provide information which will enable it to ascertain to what extent an active policy of promoting full, productive and freely chosen employment is formulated and applied in the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy and in consultation with all the persons affected, in accordance with Articles 1, 2 and 3 of the Convention. The Committee notes the Government’s brief statement contained in the report received in October 2000. The Committee expresses the hope that the Government will not fail to submit a detailed report that responds to all of the points raised in the report form adopted by the Governing Body.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1999, published 88th ILC session (2000)

The Committee again notes that the Government's report contains no reply to previous comments. It hopes that the next report will include full information on the effect given to the Convention in reply to each question of the report form approved by the Governing Body. In particular it asks the Government to state the employment objectives set out in the plans and programmes mentioned, and detailed information on the measures taken to achieve them. The Committee hopes that the Government will provide in its next report information which will enable it to ascertain to what extent an active policy of promoting full, productive and freely chosen employment is formulated and applied in the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy and in consultation with all the persons affected, in accordance with Articles 1, 2, and 3 of the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1997, published 86th ILC session (1998)

The Committee notes that the Government's report contains no reply to previous comments. It hopes that the next report will include full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the brief general information supplied by the Government in its report for the period ending June 1994 and the statistical data on employment sent separately. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee is bound to request the Government again to supply in its next report full information on the effect given to the Convention in reply to each question of the report form approved by the Governing Body.

In this respect, the Committee recalls that it specifically requested the Government to specify the employment objectives set out in the plans and programmes it mentions and to provide detailed information on the measures taken to achieve them.

The Committee hopes to find in the Government's next report information which will enable it to ascertain to what extent an active policy of promoting full, productive and freely chosen employment is formulated and applied in the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy and in consultation with all the persons affected, in accordance with Articles 1, 2 and 3 of the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1996, published 85th ILC session (1997)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the brief general information supplied by the Government in its report for the period ending June 1994 and the statistical data on employment sent separately. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee is bound to request the Government again to supply in its next report full information on the effect given to the Convention in reply to each question of the report form approved by the Governing Body.

In this respect, the Committee recalls that it specifically requested the Government to specify the employment objectives set out in the plans and programmes it mentions and to provide detailed information on the measures taken to achieve them.

The Committee hopes to find in the Government's next report information which will enable it to ascertain to what extent an active policy of promoting full, productive and freely chosen employment is formulated and applied in the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy and in consultation with all the persons affected, in accordance with Articles 1, 2 and 3 of the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1995, published 83rd ILC session (1996)

The Committee notes the brief general information supplied by the Government in its report for the period ending June 1994 and the statistical data on employment sent separately. With reference to its previous comments, the Committee is bound to request the Government again to supply in its next report full information on the effect given to the Convention in reply to each question of the report form approved by the Governing Body.

In this respect, the Committee recalls that it specifically requested the Government to specify the employment objectives set out in the plans and programmes it mentions and to provide detailed information on the measures taken to achieve them.

The Committee hopes to find in the Government's next report information which will enable it to ascertain to what extent an active policy of promoting full, productive and freely chosen employment is formulated and applied in the framework of a coordinated economic and social policy and in consultation with all the persons affected, in accordance with Articles 1, 2 and 3 of the Convention.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1994, published 81st ILC session (1994)

The Committee notes with regret that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee would be grateful if the Government would supply full information in its next report on the application of the Convention with reference in particular to the following points:

1. The Committee notes the statistics (for 1989) supplied by the Government concerning the number of workers. It notes, however, that these statistics cover a total of 262,055 workers (including non-nationals) employed in enterprises in the private, mixed and cooperative sectors. It also notes that the statitical yearbook published by the Central Statistical Organization in 1988 gave a total of 943,938 persons employed in the socialist and mixed sectors and that, according to the results of the 1987 census, which were reproduced in the ILO's Yearbook of Labour Statistics, the total active population was 3,956,345 persons. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would supply the available statistics on the situation, level and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment in all sectors of economic activity (Article 1 of the Convention). Please describe the measures that have been taken to collect and analyse relevant statistical data as a basis for deciding on measures of employment policy (Article 2).

2. The Government states that it gives effect to the provisions of the Convention through plans and programmes intended to increase the level of employment and to respond to the needs of particular categories of workers such as women, young persons and the disabled. Please describe the employment objectives set out in these plans and programmes and supply, with reference to the questions contained in the report form, detailed information on the measures that have been taken in order to achieve them. In particular, please describe the measures that have been taken to adjust the workforce to structural changes resulting from various factors and specify the difficulties that have been encountered in attaining the objectives of the Convention as set out in Article 1, paragraph 2 (a), (b) and (c).

3. The Committee notes the information concerning the activities of training centres and requests the Government to continue to supply information on the measures that have been taken to coordinate education and training policies with prospective employment opportunities.

4. Finally, please supply information on the manner in which representatives of the persons affected are consulted concerning employment policies (Article 3).

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1993, published 80th ILC session (1993)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

The Committee notes the two successive reports from the Government (for the periods ending June 1990 and June 1991) and the information that they contain in reply to its previous direct request. It would be grateful if the Government would supply full information in its next report on the application of the Convention with reference in particular to the following points:

1. The Committee notes the statistics (for 1989) supplied by the Government concerning the number of workers. It notes, however, that these statistics cover a total of 262,055 workers (including non-nationals) employed in enterprises in the private, mixed and cooperative sectors. It also notes that the statitical yearbook published by the Central Statistical Organization in 1988 gave a total of 943,938 persons employed in the socialist and mixed sectors and that, according to the results of the 1987 census, which were reproduced in the ILO's Yearbook of Labour Statistics, the total active population was 3,956,345 persons. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would supply the available statistics on the situation, level and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment in all sectors of economic activity (Article 1 of the Convention). Please describe the measures that have been taken to collect and analyse relevant statistical data as a basis for deciding on measures of employment policy (Article 2).

2. The Government states that it gives effect to the provisions of the Convention through plans and programmes intended to increase the level of employment and to respond to the needs of particular categories of workers such as women, young persons and the disabled. Please describe the employment objectives set out in these plans and programmes and supply, with reference to the questions contained in the report form, detailed information on the measures that have been taken in order to achieve them. In particular, please describe the measures that have been taken to adjust the workforce to structural changes resulting from various factors and specify the difficulties that have been encountered in attaining the objectives of the Convention as set out in Article 1, paragraph 2 (a), (b) and (c).

3. The Committee notes the information concerning the activities of training centres and requests the Government to continue to supply information on the measures that have been taken to coordinate education and training policies with prospective employment opportunities.

4. Finally, please supply information on the manner in which representatives of the persons affected are consulted concerning employment policies (Article 3).

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1992, published 79th ILC session (1992)

The Committee notes the two successive reports from the Government (for the periods ending June 1990 and June 1991) and the information that they contain in reply to its previous direct request. It would be grateful if the Government would supply full information in its next report on the application of the Convention with reference in particular to the following points:

1. The Committee notes the statistics (for 1989) supplied by the Government concerning the number of workers. It notes, however, that these statistics cover a total of 262,055 workers (including non-nationals) employed in enterprises in the private, mixed and cooperative sectors. It also notes that the statitical yearbook published by the Central Statistical Organisation in 1988 gave a total of 943,938 persons employed in the socialist and mixed sectors and that, according to the results of the 1987 census, which were reproduced in the ILO's Yearbook of Labour Statistics, the total active population was 3,956,345 persons. The Committee would be grateful if the Government would supply the available statistics on the situation, level and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment in all sectors of economic activity (Article 1 of the Convention). Please describe the measures that have been taken to collect and analyse relevant statistical data as a basis for deciding on measures of employment policy (Article 2).

2. The Government states that it gives effect to the provisions of the Convention through plans and programmes intended to increase the level of employment and to respond to the needs of particular categories of workers such as women, young persons and the disabled. Please describe the employment objectives set out in these plans and programmes and supply, with reference to the questions contained in the report form, detailed information on the measures that have been taken in order to achieve them. In particular, please describe the measures that have been taken to adjust the workforce to structural changes resulting from various factors and specify the difficulties that have been encountered in attaining the objectives of the Convention as set out in Article 1, paragraph 2 (a), (b) and (c).

3. The Committee notes the information concerning the activities of training centres and requests the Government to continue to supply information on the measures that have been taken to coordinate education and training policies with prospective employment opportunities.

4. Finally, please supply information on the manner in which representatives of the persons affected are consulted concerning employment policies (Article 3).

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1991, published 78th ILC session (1991)

The Committee notes that the Government's report has not been received. It hopes that a report will be supplied for examination by the Committee at its next session and that it will contain full information on the matters raised in its previous direct request, which read as follows:

1. The Committee notes the brief information contained in the Government's report. It requests the Government to supply a full report containing detailed information on the implementation of the Convention.

2. Please supply information on the situation, level and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment, both in urban and rural areas, with regard to specific categories of workers, such as, women, young persons and disabled workers. Please supply the information requested previously on the plans and programmes that have been adopted or are being formulated, the employment objectives set out therein and the extent to which they are being achieved. Please indicate the measures taken in order to satisfy the needs of the specific categories referred to above.

3. In reply to its previous direct request, the Government indicates that the vocational training body has been abolished and that its duties have been entrusted to the labour and vocational training department of the Ministry of Labour. The Committee refers to its direct request on Convention No. 142 and requests the Government to supply detailed information in its next report on the activities of the vocational training centres set up in Baghdad and in the governorates, and, more generally, on the measures that have been taken to co-ordinate education and training policies with employment prospects.

Direct Request (CEACR) - adopted 1989, published 76th ILC session (1989)

1. The Committee notes the brief information contained in the Government's report. It requests the Government to supply a full report containing detailed information on the implementation of the Convention.

2. Please supply information on the situation, level and trends of employment, unemployment and underemployment, both in urban and rural areas, with regard to specific categories of workers, such as, women, young persons and disabled workers. Please supply the information requested previously on the plans and programmes that have been adopted or are being formulated, the employment objectives set out therein and the extent to which they are being achieved. Please indicate the measures taken in order to satisfy the needs of the specific categories referred to above.

3. In reply to its previous direct request, the Government indicates that the vocational training body has been abolished and that its duties have been entrusted to the labour and vocational training department of the Ministry of Labour. The Committee refers to its direct request on Convention No. 142 and requests the Government to supply detailed information in its next report on the activities of the vocational training centres set up in Baghdad and in the governorates, and, more generally, on the measures that have been taken to co-ordinate education and training policies with employment prospects.