Efficient and inclusive provision of public services

Context

After declaring the country liberated from the so-called Islamic State in 2017, the Iraqi government now faces the challenge of establishing political and economic stability in Iraq. The population is dissatisfied with public services, provision of which by the state has so far been inadequate. This is reflected not least in the numerous cross-provincial protest movements.

The constitution of 2005 and Law 21 (Law of Governorates Not Incorporated into a Region) stipulate that Iraq is to become increasingly decentralised. Tasks and staff are to be gradually transferred from seven ministries to the 15 governorates of central Iraq. As a result, responsibility for services will be transferred to local authorities.

However, provincial administrations have not so far been in a position to provide services to the population in an efficient and inclusive manner. Administrative processes within the provinces are poorly organised. Services are not geared to the needs of the population, and especially not for women and marginalised groups. The knowledge and suitable approaches to change this are lacking.

Objective

Selected Iraqi provincial administrations are delivering services more efficiently and more inclusively.

Approach

The project advises directorates in selected governorates of central Iraq with the aim of improving administrative processes and aligning them more closely with the needs of citizens.

The project is developing participation formats for citizens. Depending on the governorate, these formats focus on the planning, implementation and monitoring of services. In particular, they take into account the needs of groups at the margins of society whose access to services is limited.

To improve vertical and horizontal cooperation between national administrations and the governorates, the project promotes the exchange of experience between institutions. In addition, the needs of the governorates in the efficient provision of services will be addressed in the implementation of Law 21.

Last update: July 2023