Technical session on job creation through public works in Iraq

Discussions highlighted experiences from the region and opportunities to promote decent work, social protection, skills development and the employment of women through public employment programmes.

A technical session on job creation through public works in Iraq was held, bringing together UN Deputy Special Representative and Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq Ms. Irena Vojáčková-Sollorano, ILO Deputy Regional Director for Arab States Mr. Frank Hagemann, representatives of the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, the donor community and UN agencies.

The session focused on the importance of job creation in Iraq and a shift from cash-for-work schemes to a more efficient and organised public employment approach, not only providing workers with short-term jobs, but also upgrading their skills and establishing or rehabilitating vital infrastructure.

Discussions highlighted experiences from the region and opportunities to promote decent work, social protection, skills development and the employment of women through public employment programmes in line with the Government's vision for job creation, to tackle unemployment and contribute to local economic recovery and growth.