Iraq Faces Deepening Housing Crisis Amid Urban Planning Challenges

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq’s housing crisis is intensifying due to rapid population growth, inadequate urban planning, and a persistent imbalance between supply and demand. Official estimates indicate that more than 3 million people reside in informal settlements, while some independent calculations suggest that figure may exceed 9 million. The Ministry of Planning reports that approximately 104,000 unplanned housing units currently exist, sheltering between 500,000 and 600,000 people. Former ministry spokesperson Abdul Zahra al-Hindawi stated that the government is addressing the issue through the 2024-2028 development plan, which prioritizes the construction of new cities and residential projects. Ministry of Construction and Housing spokesperson Istibrak Sabah noted that the government is working to address land and housing occupations within a legal framework established by 2025 Cabinet decisions. Meanwhile, economist Karim al-Hulu argued that the crisis stems from structural deficiencies in state management rather than a simple lack of housing units.