Iraq Labour Ministry to launch national campaign on disability rights

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs is preparing to launch a national campaign on August 7, 2026, to combat stigma, bullying and discrimination against people with disabilities, the ministry's media unit said. Zikra Abdurrahim, head of the Authority for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, met with Erica Strand, director of the Social Policy and Participation Section at UNICEF's Iraq office, to discuss expanding joint work on digital transformation, reactivating community-based rehabilitation programs and broadening their coverage in selected cities. The talks also covered the second phase of a technical-support program in information technology, specialized training for programmers and the launch of a pilot run for a new electronic system, according to the ministry. Participants reviewed proposed amendments to Law No. 38 of 2013 on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs. Abdurrahim said the authority would continue updating its systems and legislation to ensure effective access to services and rights for people with disabilities.