Iraq’s rapid digital expansion is connecting millions of young people, transforming how they learn, work, and engage with the world. Internet penetration has surged from 44 percent in 2019 to 83 percent by the end of 2024, fundamentally reshaping daily life and opening the door to a broader digital economy. Yet connectivity alone is not enough. The real challenge now lies in converting this access into sustainable skills, jobs, and economic opportunity.
This challenge is particularly urgent given Iraq’s demographic reality. More than 60 percent of the population is under the age of 25, while youth unemployment stands at 32 percent. The country now faces a pivotal question: how can it channel this digitally connected youth population into a resilient, inclusive engine of growth and diversification?
The government has taken important steps to expand infrastructure, including plans to roll out 5G services. However, the next phase must focus on outcomes. Digital access needs to translate into improved education, employability, and measurable economic value across all regions. This will require sustained investment in digital literacy and skills development so young Iraqis can participate meaningfully in technology-driven sectors.
Building the right skills base is critical. Digital tools can unlock opportunities in freelancing, entrepreneurship, and global technology careers, but only if the education system embeds practical skills for high-growth fields such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cybersecurity. Encouraging signs are emerging as universities expand digital curricula and graduates secure roles with international firms. The priority now is to strengthen these programmes, integrate real-world work experience, and ensure practical learning becomes a standard part of digital education.
Beyond skills, Iraq needs a coordinated digital ecosystem. Alignment between government, the private sector, and educational institutions is essential to turn access into job-ready capabilities and scalable businesses. Clear regulation, strong data governance, and investment incentives can attract technology firms and encourage long-term capacity building. Global partnerships can further accelerate progress by bringing international expertise into local institutions and aligning training pathways with real labour market needs.
Inclusivity must be central to this agenda. Only 10.8 percent of Iraqi women aged 15 and above participate in the workforce, one of the lowest rates globally. Expanding access to digital skills and employment pathways for women would significantly broaden the talent pool, boost productivity, and strengthen long-term economic resilience.
The private sector has a decisive role to play. Companies can offer mentoring, internships, and structured training pipelines that lead to real jobs, while investing in innovation hubs and digital platforms that help young Iraqis build businesses and reach regional markets. Several initiatives already exist, including programmes led by UNESCO, UNIDO, and SAP. The task now is to scale these efforts and extend their reach nationwide.
Iraq stands at a critical moment. By aligning connectivity with skills, employment, and inclusive participation, the country can turn its digital surge into lasting opportunity. This outcome is within reach, but it depends on collective intent and sustained action from government, educators, and business alike.
