Iraq

<p>The <em>Jobs and Entrepreneurship Opportunities to Build Sustainable Inclusive Development</em> (JOBS) project is the second phase of the European Union (EU)-funded <em>Strengthening the Agriculture and Agri-Food Value Chain and Improving Trade Policy&nbsp;</em>(SAAVI) project. It aims to contribute to Iraq&rsquo;s sustainable development by addressing key and interrelated challenges such as slow growth, limited economic diversification and unemployment. The project&rsquo;s specific objective is to enhance economic inclusion and access to decent employment for Iraqis, particularly youth, women, displaced persons, and other vulnerable groups.&nbsp;</p><p>Given Iraq&rsquo;s heavy reliance on the oil sector&mdash;accounting for 43% of GDP but generating few jobs&mdash;the project will focus on diversifying the economy through MSME development and fostering their competitiveness in high-potential sectors. The project will also advance trade policy reforms, including Iraq&rsquo;s WTO accession process, to create a more predictable and competitive economic landscape. Additionally, addressing sustainability challenges by integrating climate-smart technologies in priority sectors will help mitigate climate risks and support long-term economic resilience. Finally, the project will support self-reliance among vulnerable and displaced groups by developing market-relevant skills, improving financial inclusion, and leveraging digital tools for broader market access.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp; Beneficiaries include Iraqi government institutions, small businesses, youth, women, and displaced populations, with collaboration from partners such as governmental and non-governmental organizations, financial institutions, local business alliances, and international development agencies. The project is aligned with Iraq&rsquo;s national development priorities, the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2025&ndash;2029, EU programs (e.g. as outlined in the Multi-annual Indicative Programme, Global Gateway, and European Green Deal), and other development initiatives to maximize impact, relevance, and national ownership. Adherence to the core principles of &ldquo;do no harm&rdquo; and &ldquo;conflict sensitivity&rdquo; will guide implementation.</p>