The Iraqi Cabinet approved a set of measures aimed at addressing the growing concerns of teachers, who have been on strike nationwide demanding salary reforms, housing assistance, and the implementation of long-delayed legislation.
The decision came after a Cabinet session attended by the head of the Iraqi Teachers Syndicate, with the goal of supporting educational and teaching staff, as well as employees within the Ministry of Education.
Key actions include the allocation of residential land for teachers and ministry personnel in Baghdad and other provinces. A high-level committee will be established to carry out the directive of creating dedicated neighborhoods for education workers, with participation from the Teachers Syndicate across all regions.
Additionally, the Cabinet instructed the Ministry of Finance to release transportation stipends allocated in the education directorates’ budgets for school supervisors. The Ministry of Education will also distribute a sum of 100,000 dinars (around $67) each academic term to assist with school operations.
The government committed to fully activating the provisions of the Teacher Protection Law No. 8 of 2018, a core demand of the striking educators. Despite being passed several years ago, teachers argue the law has yet to be properly enforced.
Another key measure involves conducting a nationwide survey of rural schools and staff, particularly those working in remote areas more than 100 kilometers from urban centers. The Ministry of Education will review the results and work on finding solutions to ensure fairness.
In response to requests from veteran educators, the Cabinet also directed the Ministry of Finance to examine whether years of unpaid service can be credited toward salary increases and promotions.
Finally, the government announced that teachers and education staff would be eligible for low-interest loans from state banks to help improve their living conditions.
This announcement comes after the beginning of a nationwide strike on April 6, when teachers across Iraq refused to return to their classrooms following Eid al-Fitr. Protests have taken place in cities like Baghdad, Basra, Wasit, and Kirkuk. The Coordinating Committee for the Teachers’ and Instructors’ Strike has called for comprehensive pay reform, housing allocations, and the enforcement of the Teacher Protection Law.
Tensions rose on Tuesday in Dhi Qar, where riot police reportedly used force to disperse teachers protesting outside the Education Directorate. Several teachers were injured and detained, drawing condemnation from lawmakers and education officials. MP Dawood al-Aidan described the incident as “unacceptable” and called for immediate government intervention.
