The European Union confirmed on Wednesday that various programs are in place to support youth in Iraq.
The Iraqi News Agency (INA) quoted the EU Ambassador to Iraq, Thomas Seiler, as saying, “The European Union has many programs to support youth in Iraq,” explaining that “these programs rely on promoting democracy, which enables us to help young people build capacities in the field of education and support private projects.”
He pointed out that “the youth category is present in all sectors, especially in agricultural projects and others, for which we provide support within the prepared programs.”
The European Union has been a key partner for Iraq, providing significant support in various fields such as humanitarian aid, reconstruction, security, and political reforms. Since 2003, the EU has invested over €1 billion in assistance to Iraq, including €400 million pledged for reconstruction and economic reforms after the defeat of Da’esh. This funding supports a range of initiatives from stabilizing the country to promoting sustainable economic growth and enhancing democratic governance.
The EU’s strategic goals in Iraq include preserving the country’s unity and sovereignty, strengthening its political system, supporting humanitarian efforts, and promoting economic development and job creation. Key projects involve technical assistance for local governance, judicial and parliamentary reforms, and fostering dialogue among government, civil society, and development partners.
Additionally, the EU has been active in supporting Iraq’s youth through programs that focus on education, capacity building, and entrepreneurship. These initiatives are designed to empower young Iraqis, particularly in sectors like agriculture, helping them to develop skills and launch private projects.
