Iraq disability rights body says over 6,800 included in postgraduate program

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Authority for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs has enrolled more than 6,000 people in postgraduate programs since a service was launched on July 1, 2026, the body's head said. Authority president Zikra Abdurrahim said the total has reached 6,881 beneficiaries, up from 600 registered users by the end of May 2026, as the program expanded. The authority, which operates under Iraq's Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, said the postgraduate access is part of broader efforts to support equal opportunity, strengthen scientific and professional skills, and promote the participation of people with disabilities in the workforce and society. In a statement, the authority said it is continuing to develop its services and streamline procedures for beneficiaries. It added that work on integrating people with disabilities into the labor market and wider social life is ongoing.