LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

Local Area Development Programme in Iraq

Financed by the Implemented European Union by UNDP

PROVINCIAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY MISSAN GOVERNORATE

February 2018 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

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FOREWORD BY THE GOVERNOR

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CONTENT

PDS Missan Governorate

Foreword by the Governor ...... 3 Content ...... 5 List of Figures ...... 7 List of Tables ...... 8 Abbreviations ...... 9 Introduction ...... 11 1. Purpose of the PDS ...... 11 2. Organisation of the PDS ...... 11 3. Methodology ...... 11 4. PDS development process ...... 12 I. Context ...... 15 1. Location and administrative division ...... 15 2. Geography, natural resources, environment ...... 16 2.1. Landscape and geology ...... 16 2.2. Mineral and hydrocarbon resources ...... 17 2.3. Climate ...... 18 2.4. Surface water resources ...... 18 2.5. Groundwater resources ...... 19 2.6. Soils ...... 19 2.7. Ecoregions ...... 20 2.8. Marshlands ...... 22 3. History ...... 25 3.1. Historical significance...... 25 3.2. Recent history ...... 26 II. Social profile ...... 28 1. Population structure and trends ...... 28 2. Ethnic and religious structure ...... 30 3. IDPs ...... 30 4. Living conditions ...... 31 5. Vulnerable groups and social protection...... 36 6. Human rights, civil society, public participation and media ...... 37 6.1. The human rights situation ...... 37 6.2. Gender issues ...... 38 6.3. Civil society and Media ...... 39 III. Economic profile ...... 40 1. Economic development ...... 40 2. Industry ...... 44 3. Agriculture ...... 46 4. Trade ...... 50 5. Tourism ...... 51 6. Investment ...... 55 IV. Public service delivery ...... 58 1. Transport network ...... 58 2. Electricity ...... 60 3. Water supply service ...... 63 3.1. Drinking water supply ...... 63 3.2. Irrigation water supply ...... 65 3.3. Water resource management ...... 66

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4. Wastewater management service ...... 68 5. Waste management ...... 70 6. Communications ...... 72 7. Healthcare ...... 74 8. Education ...... 76 8.1. Pre-school education ...... 77 8.2. Primary and secondary education...... 78 8.3. Vocational education ...... 80 8.4. Higher education ...... 81 V. Governance ...... 83 1. Local governance bodies ...... 83 2. Organisational structures of the Governorate and Provincial Council ...... 83 3. Governorate budget ...... 87 4. Toward effective local governance ...... 87 VI. SWOT analysis ...... 89 VII. Strategic objectives ...... 92 VIII. Programmes (priority areas for development) ...... 94 1. Programme 1: Rehabilitate and improve the transport network ...... 94 2. Programme 2: Improve the electricity service ...... 95 3. Programme 3: Extend and improve the water supply service ...... 96 4. Programme 4: Develop the wastewater management service ...... 97 5. Programme 5: Improve access to and quality of communications ...... 98 6. Programme 6: Develop the tourism sector ...... 99 7. Programme 7: Strengthen the agriculture sector ...... 100 8. Programme 8: Encourage investment and industry development ...... 102 9. Programme 9: Improve health services quality and access ...... 104 10. Programme 10: Improve education quality and access ...... 105 11. Programme 11: Support the inclusion of youth and women ...... 106 12. Programme 12: Improve social protection and safety ...... 108 13. Programme 13: Strengthen good governance ...... 108 IX. Implementation of the PDS ...... 110 1. Implementing structures ...... 110 2. Monitoring and evaluation ...... 110 3. Financial resources ...... 110 Sources ...... 111

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 Missan Governorate on Iraq’s administrative map 15 Figure 2 Administrative map of Missan Governorate – showing main roads and surface water resources 16 Figure 3 Mineral and hydrocarbon resources in Missan 17 Figure 4 Climo-/temperature graph, Al-Amara 18 Figure 5 Soil parent material in Missan province 20 Figure 6 Land-use potential for agriculture 20 Figure 7 Ecoregions presented in Missan 20 Figure 8 Transformation of the Mesopotamian marshes 23 Figure 9 Population pyramid of Missan Governorate, 2016 30 Figure 10 Access to services indicators for Missan province 32 Figure 11 Income and poverty indicators for Missan province 33 Figure 12 Human development scores for Missan province (range 0–1) 33 Figure 13 Education attainment levels in Missan and Iraq total for people over 10 years of age, 2012 34 Figure 14 Education attainment levels and labour market outcomes, Missan province 35 Figure 15 Education attainment levels of employed populations by sex, Missan, 2015 36 Figure 16 Sector contribution to GDP in Missan, 2011 (%) 41 Figure 17 Employment by sector, 2016 (%) 41 Figure 18 Sector contribution to GDP and employment in Missan for 2013 41 Figure 19 Distribution of land in 2016 (%) 47 Figure 20 Enrolment in primary schools (public, private, religious) for 2014/15 academic year (COSIT) 79 Figure 21 Dropout from primary schools (public, private, religious) for 2011–2015 (COSIT) 79 Figure 22 Structure of Missan’s Governorate Administration 84 Figure 23 Structure of the Directorate of Finance, Missan Governorate 85 Figure 24 Structure of Missan’s Provincial Council 86

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LIST OF TABLES

Table 1 Administrative division of Missan Governorate 15 Table 2 Biodiversity and ecological status of eco-regions in Missan 21 Table 3 Ecological, social and economic services provided by the marshes 24 Table 4 Marshes in Missan and their areas before drying and areas to immerse 24 Table 5 Population indicators for Missan Governorate compared to the national average, 2016 29 Table 6 Population of Missan Governorate by administrative division, sex and urban/rural, 2016 29 Table 7 Main drives for change of residency in Missan and Iraq, 2011 (%) 29 Table 8 Main drinking water source for populations in Missan/Iraq, 2014 32 Table 9 Disparity in socio-economic indicators in Missan by qadha and urban/rural, 2013 34 Table 10 Distribution of land in 2016 (area and %) 48 Table 11 Distribution of crop (area and production) 48 Table 12 Tourism indicators for Missan province, 2013 (COSIT) 51 Table 13 Plan for the tourism development for 2015–2035 51 Table 14 Uncovered heritage sites in Missan 52 Table 15 Main religious site in Missan 53 Table 16 Investment opportunities in Missan offered by the National Investment Commission, Dec 2017 56 Table 17 Primary, secondary and rural roads in 2016 and main road accessibility 59 Table 18 Electricity grid of Missan, 2016 61 Table 19 Electricity sector indicators for Missan province 62 Table 20 Drinking water supply service in Missan – gap analysis, 2014 64 Table 21 Drinking water indicators, Missan province, 2016 65 Table 22 Proposed projects by the Missan Water Directorate 68 Table 23 Wastewater management infrastructure in Missan province, 2016 69 Table 24 Communications indicators for Missan, 2014 (COSIT) 72 Table 25 Hospital indicators for Missan province, 2014 75 Table 26 Health centres in Missan province, 2015 75 Table 27 Indicators of hospitals and health centres in Missan, 2015 75 Table 28 Pre-school education indicators for Missan province, 2014 78 Table 29 Primary education indicators for Missan province, 2014/15 academic year 79 Table 30 Secondary education indicators for Missan province, 2014/15 academic year 80 Table 31 Vocational education indicators (COSIT) 81

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ABBREVIATIONS

COSIT Central Organisation for Statistics and Information Technology (Iraq) CBSP Community Based Strategic Planning (process/methodology) CSOs Civil Society Organisations DG Directorate General GoI Government of Iraq GSP Governance Strengthening Programme, Iraq (USAID) HE/HEI Higher education/Higher education institution IDPs Internally displaced persons IM/IMS Information management/Information Management System IOM International Organisation for Migration ISIL Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (aka ISIS) IWRM Integrated Water Resource Management LADP Local Area Development Programme (EU funded, UNDP implemented) Law 21 Law of Governorates Not Incorporated into a Region – aka. Provincial Powers Act (2008) MoCH Ministry of Construction and Housing (Iraq) – now part of MoCHPMW MoCHPMW Ministry of Construction, Housing, Municipalities and Public Works (Iraq) MoE Ministry of Education (Iraq) MoF Ministry of Finance (Iraq) MoHESR Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (Iraq) MoLSA Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (Iraq) MoMD Ministry of Migration and Displacement (Iraq) MoMPW Ministry of Municipalities and Public Works (Iraq) – now part of MoCHPMW MoP Ministry of Planning (Iraq) MoT Ministry of Trade (Iraq) MoTC Ministry of Transport and Communications (Iraq) MoWR Ministry of Water Resources (Iraq) MoYS Ministry of Youth and Sports (Iraq) NDP National Development Plan NGO Non-governmental organisation NRM Natural Resources Management PPP Public-Private Partnership PC Provincial Council PDS Provincial Development Strategy (5-year plan) PPDC Provincial Planning and Development Council PwDs Persons with disability QC Qadha Centre TDS Total dissolved solids UNDP United Nations Development Programme UNEP United Nations Environment Programme UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation UNICEF United Nations Children's Fund UNWTO World Tourism Organisation (United Nations agency) USAID United States Agency for International Development WASH Water, sanitation and hygiene WHO World Health Organisation WRM Water resource management WTP Water treatment plant (treatment at intake) WWTP Wastewater treatment plant (treatment at discharge)

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INTRODUCTION

1. Purpose of the PDS

This Provincial Development Strategy (PDS) sets a framework for actions to be taken by Missan Governorate, with support from the central authorities and international donors, toward development of the province. . It provides provincial authorities with an instrument to help them:  Better monitor the planning and prioritisation of development actions;  Coordinate the efforts of international donors – given the limited resources of the national and provincial budget; and  Better recognise what additional technical support they need. . Conversely, the PDS is a very useful document for any international organisation or potential investor to get basic knowledge of the governorate and what are their immediate plans for projects.

Thus, through the PDS, Missan Governorate will become the leading partner in its development process and it will proactively pursue its objectives – including through implementation of public-private partnerships (PPPs) and cooperation with the international donors, investors and the local community.

The PDS is a living and evolving document that will be periodically reviewed and updated as required. As Missan Governorate moves forward in addressing pressing developmental issues, it will be more important than ever to ensure that the efforts of government and international agencies are synchronised and leveraged as part of a holistic and sustainable response to evolving needs and priorities.

2. Organisation of the PDS

The PDS consists of two main integral parts – baseline study and strategic part: . The baseline study reviews the situation in three strategic areas: (1) community development, (2) economic development, and (3) provision of public services. For each strategic area, a number of indicators have been researched in order to provide a full picture of the conditions in the governorate. . Based on the baseline study, the strategic part includes: SWOT analysis; a list of identified strategic objectives; a list of identified priority areas for development (programmes); a list of indicative measures (actions/projects) per each programme. the latter address investments, buildings and roads, but they also include a number of soft projects addressing improvements of the economic and social environment. There is an attempt to balance between infrastructure, socio-economic impact and institution building of the governorate administration. This allows the implementation to start immediately and adequately.

3. Methodology

Traditionally in Iraq the planning process has been highly centralised. In some cases, strategic planning in the post-Baathist period was completed by external consultants, with little involvement of local government officials, and therefore little commitment to implementation (e.g. the Provincial Development Strategy for Missan Governorate completed in 2007-2011 with assistance of RTI under USAID funding).

Conversely, LADP supports the development of a participatory planning approach to formulate prioritised objectives and strategies to address the key security, governance, economic, and social challenges that the target governorates are facing (Missan, Muthanna, Basra, Diwaniah1). Through the participatory approach several goals are achieved: help strengthen democracy; reduce corruption; limit differences among various political and ethnic groups; and empower citizens by promoting greater interaction between stakeholders within communities. Participatory planning creates a fair process to prioritise development and implementation of projects and fosters a sense of ownership of development programmes.

1 Former Qadessyiah.

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Therefore, the development of PDSs under LADP has followed the Community Based Strategic Planning methodology (CBSP). . Strategic planning. Strategic planning was the selected approach because it differs from the traditional model of comprehensive planning in several important ways:  Strategic planning is pro-active. Through the strategic planning process, the community seeks to shape its future – not just prepare for it;  Strategic planning focuses only on the critical strategic issues and directs resources to the highest priority activities. Setting priorities is necessary because the resources available to the local government (governorate) are less than the demands on them. By contrast, comprehensive planning covers all activities that must be done without indicating which ones are the most important;  Strategic planning is led by those tasked to implement the resultant strategic plan; it entails ownership. By contrast, a comprehensive plan prescribes who should implement it but it does not require the inclusion of those entities in the strategic planning process. . Community-based planning. Community involvement strengthens strategic planning in several ways:  Transparency: While the strategic plan establishes priority areas for development, it has political as well as economic dimensions. Community involvement contributes to a transparent process.  Implementation/resource mobilisation. Community involvement promotes the plan implementation. Beyond government resources, it helps mobilise the resources of the community toward achieving the economic goals. Successful strategic planning involves the entities that will be tasked with the implementation of the plan.  Support and credibility: Participation of community leaders in plan development gives the resulting plan credibility in the community. Consensus among Project Steering Committee members promotes a community consensus in support of the Plan.

4. PDS development process

The development of PDS following CBSP methodology entails the process of (1) establishment of a coordination group, (2) collection of baseline information, and (3) identification of strategic areas of intervention by involving relevant stakeholders.

With regard to data, PDSs were prepared based on information collected from different sources in Iraq – mainly information provided by the Governorates’ different Departments. Where there was lack of data from Iraqi/governorate sources, authoritative data sources (WB, UNDP, etc.) were consulted and assumptions were made in order to formulate the problems and to allow addressing these with tailored solutions.

The main areas of intervention for development (community development, economic development, and provision of public services) were identified based on detailed research on the current situation in each governorate, and on initial meetings with the established Steering Committee and Technical Group for PDS preparation (2016). Three Working Groups (one per priority area) were established. All projects per priority area were identified through workshops and consultations by the working groups with support from the experts.

Two key concept are embedded in the CBSP methodology: on-the-job-training and learning-by-doing. These two concepts have been streamlined throughout the process of PDS preparation – from the first meetings with the Steering Committee until the completion of the PDS. E.g. Missan Governorate staff and other stakeholders have benefited from trainings and support from the LADP experts; while people from the governorate involved in the preparation of the PDS have contributed information and findings. Specifically, in 2016-2017 Missan officials, business people, representatives of NGOs and civil society attended a number of workshops and trainings learning how to run a planning process and how to apply planning tools – SWOT, Log Frame approach, problem tree, goal tree, etc. – to help them to identify issues and prioritise them.

With regard to scope, a Provincial/Local Development Strategy (PDS) targets economic development – but development itself includes a number of other elements, particularly education, health, WASH, democratic and social institutions and processes, citizen involvement in decision making (citizen participation) and geopolitical and physical context. Therefore, the preparation of the PDSs has sought to account for: (1) inputs – e.g. the EU Cohesion Policy defines PDSs as "area-based integrated strategies mobilising a large number of local stakeholders using specific methods, such as partnership”; (2) outputs – the explicit objectives pursued by the strategy, which are crucial for the local partners, specifically in terms of socio-economic results and better living

12 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS conditions; and (3) long-term objectives and the structural change that can be achieved – i.e. the developmental dimension of the strategy.

The PDS preparation has also built on the provincial development strategies for the previous planning period, while the provincial governments articulated their new vision and mission for the next five years. As such, the PDSs also respond to the three major challenges to socio-economic development in Iraq: continued reduction of poverty; improving transparency and accountability and promoting good governance; and local economic development and creation of work opportunities

The thirteen-step approach to Community-Based Strategic Planning has been integrated into all main activities in the course of the preparation of the Provincial Development Strategies.

13-step CBSP process 1. Initiate process and make decision on strategic planning activity; 2. Organise the Public-Private Strategic Planning Task Force (Steering Committee); 3. Develop vision of the economic and social future of the province in the next planning period; 4. Identify stakeholders (stakeholders management); 5. Develop and analyse baseline data – including, in parallel:  Collect data on socio-economic trends;  Collect data on key industries;  Collect data on economic development infrastructure; and  Conduct business survey; 6. Conduct SWOT Analysis; 7. Identify strategic issues; 8. Identify critical strategic issues; 9. Establish Action Groups around critical strategic issues; 10. Apply Logical Framework Approach (LFA):  Develop a problem tree;  Develop an objective tree (and identify strategic objectives);  Build Log Frame Planning Matrix for each activity; 11. Develop Action Plans to address critical strategic issues; 12. Integrate Action Plans into PDS (this document); 13. Prepare Plan for implementation, evaluation and updating the PDS (remains to be done).

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I. CONTEXT

1. Location and administrative division

Missan Governorate is located in south-eastern Iraq. With an area of 16 072 km2, Missan occupies 3.7% of total area of Iraq. It has joint administrative borders with (S–>N) Basra, Thi-Qar and Wassit governorates, and joint international border with Iran – including Al-Sheeb border point.

A strong advantage for Missan are its shared border and border point with Iran, as well as its connecting position between the ports of Basra province and eastern Iraq; both are important with regard to trade, pilgrimage, and the development of the entire south of Iraq. The large area of the province implies a capacity to accommodate a larger number of people and provide natural resources that can be invested to promote economic development. The capital, Amara, is particularly well placed to accommodate diverse opportunities for development.

A number of roads support the socio-economic connectivity of the province, above all the main road Basra– Amara–Kut–Baghdad, which runs north to south across the middle of Missan along the Tigris corridor, and the main road connecting the north-east of Missan to Ahvaz (Iran) to Badra/Baquba (Diyala) and Kut (Wassit). Through Amara city, Missan is additionally connected to Thi-Qar/Muthanna and Qadessyiah/Najaf governorates. Amara city is located 345 km from Baghdad, 124 from Nassiriya, 173 from Kut and 184 from Basra.

Missan Governorate is sub-divided into six qadhas – Al Amara, Ali Al-Gharbi, Al-Maimouna, Qalat Saleh, Al-Mejar Al-Kabir and Al-Kahla'a – and 15 nahias (see Table 1, Figure 2).

Table 1 Administrative division of Missan Governorate N Qadhas (regions) Nahias (districts) Nahias (n) 1 Al Amara Al-Amara Qadha Centre, Kumait 2 2 Ali Al-Gharbi Ali Al-Gharbi Qadha Centre, Ali Al-Sharqi 2 3 Al-Maimouna Al-Maimouna Qadha Centre, Al-Salam, Said Ahmed Al-Rifaa 3 4 Qalat Saleh Qalat Saleh Qadha Centre, Al-Ezair 2 5 Al-Mejar Al-Kabir Al-Mejar Al-Kabir Qadha Centre, Al-Adel, Al-Khayr 3 6 Al-Kahla'a Al-Kahla'a Qadha Centre, Al-Msharah, Bani Hashim 3

Figure 1 Missan Governorate on Iraq’s administrative map

Legend: Yellow – Missan; Beige – KRG-controlled areas; Stripes – contested areas

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Figure 2 Administrative map of Missan Governorate – showing main roads and surface water resources

2. Geography, natural resources, environment

2.1. Landscape and geology

Ca. 95% of the territory of Missan falls within the Mesopotamian tectonic zone of Iraq2 – a basin of continuous sedimentation from rivers and wadis from the Late Permian onward, forming thick layers of organic and sulphate muds. The marsh complex (marshlands and seasonally inundated plains) is part of the ancient Tigris-Euphrates Delta. The formation of marsh complex is linked to movements of the sedimentary plain – causing water of the Arabian Gulf to recede southwards, but also including repeated inundation of some areas; here the basin is covered by recent (Pleistocene and Holocene) alluvial deposits.

2 Missan falls mainly in the Tigris sub-zone, but to the West and South, it forms also part of the Euphrates and Zubair sub-zones.

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A narrow strip in the very east of Al-Amara Qadha forms part of the foothills fold and thrust zone of the Taurus- Zagros Belt. This area presents with folding of layered sedimentary rocks from Carboniferous to Miocene, and cycles of sedimentary rocks (mainly sandstone). Faults are very significant in groundwater movements, while the sedimentary rocks hold high potential for groundwater storage. The depositional environment and tectonic history condition the formation and trapping of petroleum.

The topographic variation is almost none. In ca. 90% of the area the elevation is 5–12 m.a.s.l. In the very North- East of Al-Amara and Ali Al-Gharbi (foothills zone), elevations reach 65–115 m.a.s.l. In addition to the rivers, different erosion factors too have helped form the modern landscape – particularly in the north and east of the province. The dominant landscape features are: . Flat alluvial plain with overlain deposits – mainly mud, sand and silt; . Marsh areas comprised of silt, sand, mud and muddy silt sediments. These sediments are low in salt but contain many organic substances from decayed aqua organisms and plants. The area is broad and flat, covered by shallow fresh brackish water lakes (<3m deep), surrounded by vegetated marshes. In the most southern part, which is in places below sea-level, the area is prone to extensive flooding in spring time; . Sand dunes of aeolian origin in the north and east of the province (e.g. at Ali al-Gharbi, al-Tayyib, etc.); . Alluvial fans and terraces in the foothills zone (east); . Coarse structures/ridges covered mainly in gravel – also the foothills zone (such as Bai Hasan). This includes exposed rocks of soil, gravel deposits, limestone, etc., as well as boulders, flints and dolomites.

2.2. Mineral and hydrocarbon resources 3 There are 11 oil fields on the territory of Missan Figure 3 Mineral and hydrocarbon resources in Missan province, with total estimated reserves 47.714 billion barrels – including prominently the Halfaya petroleum cluster and part of the Majnoon supergiant oil field discovered in 1975. Due to the oil-rich environment, abundant asphalt deposits exists as well (with application in road construction). The oil deposits a position of Missan Governorate as one of Iraq's most important centres for oil production – but only 5 of the oil fields here have been developed. The main developed oil fields are located in the N-E of the governorate.

Missan also has substantial mineral reserves: sand, gravel, recent clays and low-sulphate muds (for use in brick/cement production and construction- related industries); sulphate-rich muds (relevant for recovery of sulphate of potash); and organic-rich (hydrocarbon-generating) muds (see Figure 3).

Notably, oil and gas production and transport are , among the most significant sources of pollution of the various elements of the environment in Missan.

3 Adapted from (1) Minerogenic map of Iraq, Geoserv-Iraq (available at: http://bit.ly/2BYxbLs), and (2) and (2) EIA (2012), Major fields and infrastructure in Iraq – map available at: https://fanack.com/fanack-energy/iraq).

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2.3. Climate

Missan has warm desert climate (BWh by Köppen-Geiger), Figure 4 Climo-/temperature graph, Al-Amara4 with hot summers and cool-to-warm winters, and virtually no precipitation (177 mm annual average). Temperatures variate between 5°C and 16°C in the winter and 25°C to 45°C in the summer (Al Amara city has average annual temperature of 23.8°C). Precipitation is <1mm in the summer and reaches maximum levels in the winter months (Dec–Feb) – from ca. 70 mm in the south-west, to ca. 130 mm in the north-east, to max 180 mm in the extreme north-east of Al-Amara QC (which is still minimal). The dry season lasts ca. 4 months. The effects of climate change include increased frequency and severity of droughts. Development of agriculture in Missan is completely dependent on irrigation. 2.4. Surface water resources

Surface water resources in Missan are linked to the Tigris, Euphrates and Karheh rivers, and the number of marshes which form in the area of their confluence in the south of the province (the confluence point is just south of the governorate) (see Figure 2). The catchment areas of the Tigris and Euphrates starts in Syria and Turkey; of the Karkeh – in Iran. Thus, surface water resources in Missan are part of a vast hydraulic system, which extends into the entire national territory and beyond, and includes a number of regulation structures (dams, storage reservoirs) upstream from the province and outside Iraq.

Rivers. The main perennial river is the Tigris, which flows North-to-South through the middle of the province area and feeds the marshlands. It flows into the Persian Gulf through Sha'tt Arab. A number of minor rivers branch off from the Tigris in a deltaic formation to deliver excess water to the marshes. The Tigris is at its lowest in Sept–Oct and at flood in March–May. Wadis (the main ones are Teeb and Dewereg) are ephemeral; they attain maximum flow in Jan-March and dry out by the end of spring.

With regard to water quantity, the flow of the Tigris has been severely reduced in the last decade (linked to damming and climate change) with severe impact on water availability, aquifer recharge and regeneration of marshes. Reduced river flow also factors in increased incidence of soil erosion and heat and dust storms, with impact on health, productivity, and soil and vegetation status; and it may trigger groundwater overuse. With regard to water quality, reduced flow and high temperatures increase the salinity of water. Also, while rivers are the main drinking water source in the province, poor wastewater treatment is a threat to the environment, public health and development. The marsh ecosystems are particularly vulnerable to increased TDS and salinity levels of incoming river waters.

Marshes. More than a third of Al Ahwar marshes of south Iraq fall in Missan province. These marshes formed as part of the deltaic system of the main rivers. The main marshes are Central (Qurna), Haweizeh, but also Hawr El Sinaf and Hawr Sukhairi (see Figure 2). Central Marsh is fed both by the Tigris from the north and by the Euphrates from the south and Haweizeh marsh is fed, on the east, by the lower course of the Karkah, Alteeb and Duwereg River, from the west by the tail end of the Alkahlaa, Al-Musharah and Mairiyah.

Marshes once covered two thirds of Missan. In 1991, the former Regime initiated the construction of drainage and water diversion structures. Despite efforts at reflooding staring in 2003, today less than a quarter of the original marsh areas remain. The water quantity in marshes is seasonal, they shrink in the summer (almost to nothing in some years – e.g. 2009). The construction of regulation structures upstream (and reduced incoming water flow) has deeply modified the way in which these areas are flooded. The water quality is poor: the water is generally not safe for human consumption in many areas, and it is also less suitable for agriculture. The marshes do, however, have vast socio-economic value and significance for biodiversity.

We discuss in depth the status of the marshes and marshland ecosystems in Chapter I.2.8 below.

4 Data: https://en.climate-data.org/location/ 953691.

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2.5. Groundwater resources

In areas where there are no surface water resources (such as al-Tayyib and al-Batirah areas extending towards Dhi Qar province), populations depend on groundwater for domestic and agricultural activities. Large quantities of groundwater are available, which can be obtained by digging wells where water is close to the surface, or by pumping water out from larger depths. Some wells have been exploited for the establishment of oases.

However, with regard to groundwater resources, too, Missan faces potential deficiency due to drought and pollution, in addition to irrational use of water and poor irrigation methods. The majority of available groundwater resources are chloride; along the border with Iran they are sulphate. With regard to suitability for domestic and agricultural use, the majority of water from groundwater sources shows excessive salinity and TDS levels – between 10 000 and 50 000 mg/l; and over 50 000 mg/l in the areas of Hawr el-Sinnaf and Central Mash North. Salinity and TDS content increase toward west and south. TDS5 in drinking water originate from natural sources, but particularly from sewage, urban run-off, agriculture, industrial wastewater, outdated water supply systems, etc. Therefore, groundwaters toward the south and west of the province have particularly high levels of TDS, especially organic contamination, as well as increase in the concentration of heavy metals.

In most parts of Middle East water has strategic importance - drinking water particularly. Missan does not have the problem of lack of water as such – as do other provinces with desert areas (such as Anbar) – due to presence of marshes. However, water resource management (WRM) remains a significant problem – which impacts on drinking water access and human health, as well as on the state of water resources for economic use (i.e. soil salinisation, waterlogging impact negatively the development of agriculture; water pollution diminished the regeneration capacity of the marshlands – which limits livelihood opportunities for people in these areas; etc.).

2.6. Soils

The quality of soils is important for the development of the agriculture sector – which is key to livelihoods in Missan province. Soils reflect the geomorphology, climate and water conditions. The main soil types are: . Sedimentary soils (basins soils and fan soils) – spread widely in the province. They are predominant (35% mud, 43% slit, 22% sand). Fan soils have medium texture and high lime content; . Sand dune soils - present in the very north-east, characterised by lack of water retention due to roughness of their texture (sand content can be > 90%, quartz content can reach 80%, feldspar is 15%); . River bank soils – adjacent to the banks of the Tigris and its branches ; they have good fertility and high drainage properties (mixture of sand, mud and other substances); the soil layer is deep; . River basin soils – next to the river bank soils; these have soft and muddy texture, higher ratio of clays, and ca. 25% sand content; the soil layer is shallow; . Marsh and swamp soils in the area of marshlands are common in the south of the province – soft sandy soils with high mud/sludge percentage, and high content of dissolved organic matter; they have poor internal drainage, which results in an increase in the salt content of the water level.

Overall, the conditions are good for pastoralism/animal raising in the east/north-east of the province; for minimal grazing/nomadic heading in west/south-west of the province; and for irrigated and cropped agriculture and intensive pastoralism along the Tigris and its branches (see Figures 5 and 6).

In the NE and SW of Missan, the potential productivity of soils depends on supply of adequate water and nutrients. Biomass productivity is low, the litter layer is low and the organic content of surface soil layers is very low. Evaporation tends to concentrate salts at the soil surface. Soil salinisation results from salts deposited from irrigation water – or by evaporation of irrigation and groundwater through capillary action, particularly in fallow areas. Sensitivity to disturbance – from grazing, soil disturbance, burning, ploughing, and other cover alteration – is very high, and restoration/regeneration potential tend to be very low. Desertification – the conversion of productive drylands to desert conditions – can occur from a combination of natural (e.g. wind erosion) and human-driven factors (e.g. poor agricultural practices, overgrazing, vegetation stripping, intensive agricultural tillage). A tendency to desertification becomes more pronounced with climate change.

In the area along the Tigris, major problems with regard to soils include soil salinisation and waterlogging. In addition to evaporation and irrigation effects, soil salinisation results from increased salinity of waters that drain

5 Total dissolved solids (TDS) is a measure of the combined content of all inorganic and organic substances contained in a liquid in molecular, ionized or micro-granular suspended form. TDS refers to any minerals, salts, metals, cations or anions dissolved in water - including inorganic salts (salt, calcium, magnesium, sulphates, etc.) and organic matter.

19 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS into the marshes. Waterlogging is caused by lack of effective natural or artificial drainage systems. Waterlogged soils are characterised by the complete saturation of all pore spaces up to the soil surface (permanently or intermittently), depending on the seasonal fluctuation of the groundwater table and the extent of drainage available. At the same time, Missan is one of the Iraqi governorates worst affected by degradation of drainage systems. The state of the drainage system and breakdown of its management, combined with increases in salt load from upstream effluents, have led to soil salinity and waterlogging now affecting most irrigated areas.

Soil degradation is an overall problem in the province related inter alia to pollution from industry. All these problems bear impact on agricultural production, food security, environmental health, and economics.

Overall, ca. 40% of the area of Missan is suitable for agriculture. According to Iraq NDP 2013-2017, Missan includes 3.6% of all arable land in Iraq. However, loss of arable land and abandonment of agricultural land have been observed. Salinisation and waterlogging are among the main reasons for abandonment of agricultural land – which, again, necessitates urgent measures to improve water resource management (WRM) – with priority attention on irrigation methods, drainage systems and wastewater treatment. While pollution from industry is a factor for soil degradation, measures to improve natural resource management (NRM) are necessary as well – including in cooperation with governorates upstream.

Figure 5 Soil parent material in Missan province6 Figure 6 Land-use potential for agriculture

2.7. Ecoregions

From NE to SW, Missan presents three ecological Figure 7 Ecoregions presented in Missan regions: (1) Arabian Desert and East Sahero-Arabian Xeric Shrublands, (2) Tigris-Euphrates Alluvial Salt Marsh, and (3) South-Iran Nubo-sindian desert and semi- desert (see Figure 7).

These ecoregions belong to the Palearctic Realm of terrestrial ecosystems. They share a large majority of their species and ecological dynamics; and they interact ecologically in ways that are critical for their long-term persistence. Details for each ecoregion are presented in Table 2 below.

6 Adapted from MoMPW (2013), Structure Plan of Missan Governorate Phase 2 –Data Analysis Report (Draft).

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Table 2 Biodiversity and ecological status of eco-regions in Missan7 Eco-region Environment Biodiversity Endangered species Ecological status Arabian Desert Desert and xeric Common desert birds include: Steppe Eagle (Aquila The Macqueen’s Bustard and Egyptian Vulture are globally Critical/endangered – the main threats and East shrubland areas nipalensis), Bar-tailed Lark (Ammomanes cincture), threatened species – while there is active hunting of the are from: Sahero-Arabian Temminck's Lark (Eremophila bilopha), Eurasian Macqueen’s Bustard. Several species have probably been . overgrazing by livestock, Xeric Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo), Macqueen’s Bustard eradicated from the area – e.g. Arabian Oryx (Oryx . off-road driving, and Shrublands (Chlamydotis macqueenii), etc. Desert Finch leucoryx) and Asiatic Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus). . human destruction of habitat. (Rhodospiza obsoletus). Important mammal species include wolves, hyenas, gazelles, wild boars, foxes, bats and others. Reptile species include the Spiny- tailed lizards (Uromastyx sp). and others. Tigris- Freshwater lakes, The ecoregion is almost exactly equivalent to the The region is priority area for globally threatened Critical/ endangered – due to: Euphrates swamps and Mesopotamian marshes Endemic Bird Area. This is migratory and resident birds. . hydrology modifications Alluvial Salt marshes one of the most important wintering areas for The marshes support a number of bird species of . reduced water inflow Marsh surrounded by migratory birds in Eurasia; internationally important conservation concern – including eight that are globally . salt from irrigated lands desert and wintering concentrations exist of at least 22 species threatened: the Marbled Duck (Marmaronetta . pollution (from industry, settlements, savannas. (and possibly up to 70 species) of wintering angustirostris), Ferruginous Duck (Aythya nyroca), White- and regional conflict). Flooded grasslands, waterfowl. headed Duck (Oxyura leucocephala), Bashra Reed-warbler Protection: aquatic plants The marshes are exceedingly important as spawning (Acrocephalus griseldis), Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa . The New Eden Master Plan for IWRM (mainly Phragmites ground for fish from the Gulf. limosa), Asian Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca), Greater in the Marshland Area was developed sp./Typha sp.); Two mammal species that have made a successful Spotted Eagle (Aquila clanga), and Macqueen’s Bustard in 2004-2007; short grasses/ return to the marshland areas since re-flooding are (Chlamydotis macqueenii). These marshes are only . In 2007, the first RAMSAR site of Iraq shrubs. the Asian water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and wild breeding area of the Iraq babbler and the Basra Reed- was established (Hawizeh Marsh); boar (Sus scrofa). Common mammal species include warbler. . In Central Marshes, the first Iraqi Honey badger (Mellivora capensis), Small Asian Among mammals, the Bunn's Short-tailed Bandicoot Rat National Park (Mesopotamia Mongoose (Herpestes auropunctatus), Golden Jackal (Erythronesokia bunnii) and Mesopotamian gerbil Marshland National Park) was also (Canis aureus), Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes), Rüppell's Fox (Gerbillus mesopotamiae) are unique to the region, as well informally established (in Thi Qar, Basra (Vulpes rueppelli), and wolve (Canis lupis). as a subspecies of smooth-coated otter (Lutra perspicillata and Missan Governorates); maxwelli). . Included in Al-Ahwar UNESCO World Heritage site in 2016. South-Iran Vast desert Enormous variety of birds, mammals and reptiles. Bird species – Basra Reed Warbler, Saker Falcon (Falco Critical/ endangered Nubo-sindian wilderness, with Animals that inhabit these scrubby grasslands have cherrug), White-rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis), desert and shrublands in some adapted to life in harsh conditions. Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus), White-headed semi-desert areas Duck. Mammal species – Short-tailed Bandicoot Rat.

7 Data – WWF (2011): http://www.worldwildlife.org/science/wildfinder and https://www.worldwildlife.org/ecoregions/pa0906; and Governorate information.

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2.8. Marshlands

The marshlands are of fundamental importance.8 The Ahwar of Southern Iraq are unique, as one of the world’s largest inland delta systems in an extremely hot and arid environment. They are key to the livelihoods and culture of Marsh Arabs (Madan); they play an important role in global ecosystems by supporting rare wildlife and rich biodiversity – especially of migratory birds (see Chapter 2.7); they are spawning ground for economically important fish of the Arabian Gulf; they are an asset for tourism development. In 2016, Al Ahwar was listed as UNESCO World Heritage site, recognising its significance for biodiversity and preserving Mesopotamian heritage. Therefore, restoration and protection of the marshlands is of primary importance for socio-economic development in the province. Historically, the marshlands included a chain of almost interconnected permanent and seasonal marsh, shallow and deep lake units that merged into larger wetland complexes during high flood; mudflats and desert regularly inundated in periods of elevated water levels; and a great variety of habitats and ecological features. Augmentation of the marshlands system started in the 1950s with the construction of MOD (Main Outfall Drain) – as a means to provide a solution for soil salinisation (by diverting saline residual water from agricultural land). In contrast, staring in 1991, augmentation aimed to drain the marshes (to expel rebels, to clear land for agriculture and oil exploration). This included a complex system of levees, canals, embankments, flow regulators, and ditches (incl. Kumait Escape Canal, East-West Canal/Glory River). It coincided with building of huge dams upstream (e.g. Atatürk dam). Overall, in the 1990s, marshes were reduced to 10% of their former size – with disastrous ecological and socio-economic effect. In less than a decade, one of the world’s largest and most significant wetland ecosystems completely collapsed. The loss of wetlands led to desertification of lands. Marsh Arabs were uprooted from their centuries-old culture and livelihoods, and robbed of food (fish) and drinking water. In both regards, destroyed marshlands have driven up poverty in the province. After 2003, many communities, national institutions and international organisations (incl. MoWR and UNEP) started to mobilise in support of the restoration of the marshlands. Due to these efforts, ca. 40% of the original marshes were re-flooded; and dedicated work continues to restore their biodiversity and livelihoods. GoI hopes to recover 6000 km2 (two-thirds) of the original marshlands (see Table 4 below). However, marshland ecosystems today continue to suffer the decimating effect of damming and siphoning off of river waters, increasing droughts and pollution: . In re-flooded areas, there has been a remarkable rate of reestablishment of native macroinvertebrates, macrophytes, fish and birds. Yet, the lack of connectedness among re-flooded marshes remains a concern for species diversity and local extinction, and the volume of water that flowed into the marshes in the first years of restoration may not be able to be sustained. Today, river flow into the marshlands has been cut by 20-50%; the spring floods that sustained the marshlands have been eliminated. In result, what was once a lush wetland environment has been reduced by about 85% in area; and what was once a vast, interconnected mosaic of densely-vegetated marshlands and lakes, teeming with life, is now mostly lifeless desert and salt-encrusted lakebeds/riverbeds. Water flow is likely to decline even more as Iraq stabilises and economic and agricultural activities resume – and as the new Ilisu Dam in Turkey becomes completed; . Ecological status and livelihoods are additionally threatened by declining water quality. Incoming waters are saltier than they once were, due to irrigation practices. There has been a dramatic increase in the levels of chemicals and TDS from agriculture, cities and industry – but decrease in natural sediments and silts, which now remain trapped behind dams. Lower levels of silt lead to lower levels of plankton and organic carbon in the water – which, in turn, adversely affect fish populations and soil properties. Water quality issues are expected to increase in the context of urbanisation, new irrigation schemes, industry development and weak environmental control. . Climate change (increasing drought, increase in temperatures) exacerbates the negative trends.

All these negative trends point to demise of the Mesopotamian marshland ecosystem unless urgent steps are taken to reverse damage. Its future depends on being able to strike a balance between economic development (incl. oil industry development), environmental protection and conservation, and promoting social development and sustainable livelihoods in marshland areas. There is urgent need to improve water resource management (WRM) and, overall, natural resource management (NRM) for economic development.

8 Marshlands analysis in based on (1) UNEP (2001),The Mesopotamian Marshlands: Demise of an Ecosystem; (2) UN (2011), Managing Change in the Marshlands: Iraq’s Critical Challenge; (3) NASA Earth observatory – e.g. https://go.nasa.gov/2s8E3DP and https://go.nasa.gov/2Lv3Yxp; (4) National Geographic (July 2015): “Iraq's Famed Marshes Are Disappearing—Again”; (4) Governorate information.

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Figure 8 Transformation of the Mesopotamian marshes9

1973–76 Sept 1990 March-May 2000 Feb 2010 In this image, dense marsh vegetation (mainly During the Iran-Iraq War, large swaths of marshes In this image, most of the Central Marshes appear The image shows the level of marsh recovery since phragmites/marsh grass) appears as dark red dried out from military transport. Marsh as olive/greyish-brown patches indicating low 2003 – made difficult by damming, pollution, and 10 patches. The red lines are palm groves. Shatt-al- vegetation appears as red/dark red patches. vegetation cover on moist or dry ground. The increasing droughts. Marshes appear as brown Arab begins where the Tigris and Euphrates meet very light to grey patches are areas of exposed patches; green is agriculture. In 1991, a massive hydro-engineering drainage and carries their waters to the southeast into the ground with no vegetation: salt flats where programme was launched. In a less than a Madan returnees report higher water salinity, Persian Gulf. before there were lakes. Straddling the Iran-Iraq decade, 90% of marshes were destroyed – driving reduced nutrients in grasses, water contamination border just east of the Tigris River, Hawizeh This status of Al Ahwar remained relatively intact a major ecological and human disaster. Marsh – leading to reduced fish levels, reduced quality of Marsh appears to be all that remains of the through the mid-1980s. In a fascinating ensemble Arabs were robbed of a centuries-old culture and animal feed, sicker animals. While the water is region's natural wetlands. of water, reeds and people, the Madan engaged way of life, food (fish), and drinking water. The receding, many have to grow wheat instead of rice, in sustainable livelihoods: traditional agriculture vast majority were displaced. and keep sheep instead of water buffaloes – and (mainly rice), fishing, water buffalo breeding. potentially leave again. Livelihoods and ecosystems are profoundly disrupted.

9 Satellite and false-colour composite images from NASA: earthobservatory.nasa.gov. 10 It is estimated that precipitation in the Middle East has dropped by 30% between 2005 and 2009 alone. See UN-ESCWA (Nov 2012), Groundwater and Water Management Issues in the Middle East: https://bit.ly/2KBH8E6.

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Table 3 Ecological, social and economic services provided by the marshes11 Service Sub-category Examples Provision services –goods / products obtained from Marshlands’ ecosystems Food Crops Paddy rice, great millet, dates, vegetables and fruits Livestock Asian water buffalo, cattle, sheep, water-buffalo milk and yogurt Capture fisheries Shrimp, yellowfin seabream, khishni, Malabar trevally Dorab Aquaculture Cyprinids, grass carp, shellfish, Fourfinger threadfin Wild foods Waterfowl (coot, teal) Freshwater Freshwater for drinking, cleaning, cooling, and transportation Fibre and fuel Fibre Reeds for housing and mats; date palm wood Fuels Crude oil, cattle dung Biochemical Potential use of wetland flora extracts, native herbs for pharmaceuticals and pest control Genetic materials Resistance and breeding of native plant and animal species Regulating services –benefits obtained from the wetlands ecosystems’ control of natural processes Climate regulation Moderation of rainfall patterns and control desertification and dust storms Water regulation Hydrological flows Storage and retention of water flow from Euphrates/Tigris upstream and tidal flow downstream; permeable clay and silt facilitates recharge of the alluvium aquifer Water purification Removal of harmful pollutants from water by trapping metals and organic materials; wastewater treatment soil microbes degrade organic waste rendering it less harmful Erosion regulation Reeds, grasses and estuarine vegetation retain soils and sediments Protection function Estuaries protect coastal areas from flows, hurricanes and river/streams coastal erosion Natural hazard Marsh areas naturally absorb seasonal floods and tidal surges; moderation of regulation drought at a local scale Pollination Habitat for bees and birds, the key pollinators of economically important crops Cultural services – non-material benefits that Iraqis obtain from wetland ecosystems Ethical values Customs, oral traditions, knowledge and rituals attached to the use of the land and rivers; Iraqi tangible and intangible cultural heritage Recreation and Canoeing, bird and wild-life watching, recreational fishing, archaeological site tourism visitation, Arab Marsh communities culture and values Aesthetics Globally significant natural beauty Education Science, cultural awareness, specialised vocational training, public awareness of national, regional and global importance Supporting services –underlying processes that are necessary for the production of all other ecosystems services Soil formation Retention of sediment, recycling and supporting the health of the ecosystems Nutrient cycling Returning phosphorus, sulphur and nitrogen to Iraq’s atmosphere, water, soils

The restoration of marshland ecosystems is a key factor for sustainable socio-economic development in Missan. Wetland and aquatic ecosystems provide for a number of ecological services: they support rich biodiversity; they help regulate the water balance and provide clean water (they purify water by mechanically retaining runoff particles suspended in water and by absorbing nutrients and toxic substances that are taken up by vegetation); they contribute to CO2 sequestration; etc. They also provide a number of economic services – including as a source of food for animals and people. Given the unique culture they support, work to restore the marshlands is work to promote tourism and social inclusion.

Table 4 Marshes in Missan and their areas before drying and areas to immerse N Name Province Area as of 1973 Area ready to be Nahias (km2) immersed (km2) 1 Hawizeh (Eastern) marsh Missan 1800 2350 1055 1377 Bani Hashim, Al-Masharah, Al-Ezair Basra 550 322 2 Central Marshes Missan 1450 3000 1230 2420 Al-Khayr, Al-Salam Basra 500 155 Thi Qar 1050 1035 3 Oda (Central Marsh North) Missan 105 105 Said Ahmed Al-Rifaai, Al-Salam 4 Sinnaf Missan 178 178 Amara QC, Al-Masharah 5 Glory River Missan, Basra 105 105 Al-Salam, Al-Khayr, Al-Ezair

11 Source: Iraqi Marshlands - Integrated UNAMI/UNCT White Paper, 2011 (modified).

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Most of marshes areas have been converted to agricultural land. Since 2003 the MoWR Committee for restoring the marshlands has focused mainly on granting a constant water flow to the marshes, preventing flood to villages and crops, and building infrastructures for rural communities. In the next phase, the core issues of marshland restorations have to shift to management of conflicting interest with regard to land use, and environmental monitoring and restoration.

3. History

3.1. Historical significance

Missan is part of the Mesopotamian Fertile Crescent, regarded by historians as one of the cradles of civilization. In time, the area of Missan has been inhabited by Sumerians, Chaldeans, Mandaeans, Jews, various Islamic dynasties and armies, and Ottoman Arabs. Ca. 305 archaeological sites of different periods have been identified in the province, with relevance for the development of archaeological and religious tourism.12

The Mesopotamian marshland ecosystem has supported marsh societies for millennia. The culture of today’s Marsh Arabs (Madan)13 is rooted in ancient Sumeria ca. 5000 years ago. The Madan way of life has changed little since: they live in the marshes in houses built from reeds; the mashuf canoe is the main mode of transportation. In July 2016, Al Ahwar was listed as UNESCO World Heritage site – including 4 wetland areas (Huwaizah Central, East and West Hammar Sumerian cylinder seal found at Uruk showing Marshmen in marshes) and 3 archaeological sites (Uruk, Ur, Tell Eridu) in traditional mashuf boat. southern Iraq. These ruins and Marsh Arab culture are seen to represent Sumerian heritage of the 4th-3rd millennium BC.

The most significant archaeological site in Missan is Charax – as known as “the ruins of Naysan” (located in Qalat Saleh Qadha – across Shatt al-Arab from Hammar marshes). This ancient city played an important role in Pre- Islamic Arabia and the Islamic period. The Charax site has been partially excavated (as recently as 2016). Excavations revealed that the city was laid out on a grid pattern with 185/85 m2 housing blocks (among the largest blocks in the ancient world). Two large public buildings were detected, but are not yet excavated. . In 324 BC, the town of Charax-Spasinu was founded on a large mound near the confluence of the Karkheh and Tigris rivers, replacing a small Persian settlement (Durine). Originally called Alexandria, the town was possibly founded by Alexander the Great himself. Charax passed to the Seleucid empire after Alexander's death, until it was destroyed by flooding. . In ca. 166 BC, it was rebuilt by Antiochus IV (175-164 BC), including a massive anti-flood embankment, and renamed Antiochia. From then on, it served as the capital of the Characene Kingdom for 282 years – first as a multi-ethnic Hellenised city with extensive trading links, and from the 2nd c. AD, showing a more Parthian culture. In late antiquity, the city was a important and established port at the head of the Persian Gulf, and a major trading centre as evidenced by the multitude of recovered coins. Historic texts report ships arriving regularly from Gerrha, Egypt, India, and beyond; e.g. in AD 97 the city was visited by a Chinese envoy.

. In 221–222 AD, Charax and the surrounding area fell into the Sassanid empire. From this point on, the area Charax mint. from ca. 120 BC, showing Hyspaosines – was known by the Aramaic/Syriac name Naysan, which founder and king of Characene (top) and Islamic Missan mint was later adopted by Arab conquerors as Missan. from ca. 710 AD (bottom).

12 Iraq NDP 2013-2017. 13 Ca 0.5 million in the entire Mesopotamian marshlands region, according to earthobservatory.nasa.gov.

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. The Charax/Missan mint continued into the Umayyad empire, minting coin as late as 715 AD. The Muslim Arab conquest of Missan started under Khalid bin Al Waleed (585–642 AD); it was finally subsumed under the Rashidun Caliphate in the 630s AD, by Utbah bin Gazwan, under the second Caliph of Islam, Khalif Omar ibn al-Khattab. The remains of a Nestorian Church here dating back to the 6th c. AD testify to the continued multicultural population and significance in the city.

3.2. Recent history

Ba’athist regime (1968–2003), Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988) and Gulf War I (1990–1991)

Following the 17 July Revolution coup in Iraq (1968), Arabisation (Ta’rib) was pursued by the Ba’athist regime – systematic effort to instil national unity via collective Arab identity: . The ideology of Baath Party was originally articulated to emphasise a cross-sectarian and cross-religious Arab unity; nevertheless under the Regime, Arab Sunni tribal-regional congregations were treated favourably. While the population of Missan were predominantly Shiite Muslims, the governorate was characterised by conflict with the Regime; and the infrastructure of the governorate suffered from three decades of neglect during the Ba’athist regime. . The process included the suppression of Kurdish nationalism and forced displacement of Kurds. As part of this process, Faili Kurds in Missan were persecuted and expelled 1970-80s14; only a small group remain – living near the border with Iran.

At the same time, amid regional power struggle, Iran and Iraq both encouraged separatist activities by Kurdish nationalists in the other state. Following the Iranian Revolution (1979), Iraq initiated a military campaign to take over Iran’s south-western oil fields, which quickly turned into the Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988). . In 1980 the Iraqi army crossed the Shatt Al-Arab and invaded Iran. In 1983 Iran counterattacked and launched a massive assault targeting Al Amara. The area of the Al Sheeb/Chazabeh border point had a significant role in this war. E.g. in the operation of Tange-Chazabeh, Saddam personally attended the area in order to recapture the city of Bostan (Iran), and actually the bloodiest scene of the war between Iran and Iraq happened in that area. . Additional to damage to the built environment and land in the course of fighting, by 1990 already, much marshland area had dried out as a result of causeways constructed to ease military transport in otherwise difficult terrain (a large eastern swath of the Central and Al Hammar Marshes as well as the north-western and southern fringes of the Al Hawizeh Marsh).15

The war amplified tensions in Iraq and sparked large-scale uprising against the Regime – including in Kurdistan areas and in the southern Shiite governorates. Missan suffered greatly again after the suppression of the uprising (March 1991–), including further displacements, political and religious persecution. Unlike the Kurdish region, the Shiite south could not count on a no-fly zone imposed by the International Coalition. Thousands were killed in the fighting, including civilians, and many others were detained or executed; and thousands of rebels and civilians sought refuge from persecution in the marshlands – which became an area of intensive fighting in 1991-1993. Thus, minefields in marshland and along the border with Iran are a significant current issue, which goes back to the Iran-Iraq War and the 1991 uprising. Shi‘a grievances and discontent with the regime did not subside, but increasingly compliance had to be demonstrated in the course of the 1990s.

In response to the uprising (to clear the rebels), as well as to clear land for agriculture use and oil exploration, the Al Ahwar marshes draining campaign was started in 1991 and continued throughout the 1990s (detailed in Chapter I.2 above). The marshlands of Missan form part of the ancestral homeland of the Ma’dan or Marsh Arabs, engaged in traditional methods of agriculture, fishing and water buffalo breeding. The draining of the marshes profoundly changed the land-use structure of the governorate; it destroyed the livelihoods Marsh Arabs. In the course of the campaign, many Marsh Arabs were displaced to other locations, and many more fled the area for lack of livelihoods. E.g. of the 95 000 southern Iraqis who sought refuge in Iran following 1991, an estimated 40 000 were Marsh Arabs. Altogether the population living in Al Ahwar dropped from ca 500 000 in the 1950s to just 20 000; and the marshes were reduced to just one tenth their former size. 16 It is estimated that today Marsh Arabs in Missan province are less than 30 000 – down from ca. 230 000 in 1991.

14 https://reliefweb.int/report/iraq/faili-kurds-iraq-thirty-years-without-nationality. 15 NASA Earth Observatory: https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/IOTD/view.php?id=1716. 16 UNESCO cited (17 July 2016) in “Iraq’s al-Ahwar marshes recognized by UNESCO”: http://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/iraq/17072016.

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Missan’s agricultural sector suffered greatly from the destruction of the marshlands during the draining campaign. The Public Distribution System – a scheme of subsidised food set in place in the 1990s – also hurt Missan’s farmers, as it greatly diminished the market value of wheat (Missan’s main agricultural product), which turned many farmers’ businesses unprofitable.

By 1988, falling oil prices and war debts contributed to a worsening economic crisis in Iraq, precipitating Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait in 1990 and the Gulf War I (1990–1991). In the aftermath of the Gulf War, sanctions were imposed on Iraq (1991–2003). Iraq was banned from importing anything not expressly permitted by the UN; foreign companies were stopped from doing business with Iraq; oil production dropped by 85%; non-oil industry and agriculture severely contracted. GDP per capita – USD 2836 in 1989 -- fell to USD 174 by 1994. Public service delivery was made near impossible; public spending on e.g. roads, water supply, healthcare and education plummeted. The impact on human development was great. Poverty, infant/child mortality, and malnutrition soared; and enrolment rates and quality declined at all levels of the education system. The effects were particularly hard felt in the marginalised non-Sunni parts of Iraq.

All these events increased poverty levels, the urban-rural development divide, and share of urban poor in the province – which fed into the power struggle in the following period. They still have a direct bearing on development and poverty levels in Missan today.

Iraq War (2003–2011) and Iraqi insurgency (2003–2013)

The protracted Iraq War began with the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003 which toppled the Ba’athist regime. Coalition forces captured Baghdad on 09 April 2003. In the power vacuum that ensued, Iraq’s internal divisions were exacerbated. The situation in Missan Governorate remained relatively calm – but it did become a battleground of competing Shia factions who vied for power (including Moqtada Al-Sadr’s Sadrist Trend and its Mahdi Army militia). Tribal identity and affiliation played an important role in this inter-Shia fighting, which often turned into armed confrontation.

Shia militias also clashed with the Coalition forces and the new Iraqi Security Forces, who gradually lost control over the governorate. In 2006 the Mahdi Army briefly took control over Al Amara. Following similar operations in Basra, the Iraqi army, supported by US forces, launched a major crackdown on the militias in Missan in the summer of 2008. This resulted in ceasefire and the government regained control over the governorate.

The military operations that led to the fall of the former Regime and subsequent conflict and violence in Iraq augmented the number of displaced. On 22 Feb 2016, the bombing of a Shia shrine in Samarra ignited sectarian violence and 2006 saw a spike in people fleeing their homes – including to Missan. According to IOM data, IDPs in Missan were 2203 families in 200617 (ca. 13 200 people).

After 2008, Missan has remained relatively calm ever since. However, sabotage and fighting in the period have resulted in additional infrastructure damage, and they have hampered reconstruction and development efforts. Importantly in this period, oil production from the Halfaya oilfield started in 2012, which altered the economic structure of the province toward increasingly mono-sector economy. Also, after the fall of the Regime April 2013, Marsh Arabs were quick to breach embankments to re-flood parts of their homeland. In the next years, large effort involving national institutions and international organisations (notably MoWR and UNEP) resulted in re-flooding and restoration of ca. 40% of the original marsh areas in southern Iraq. The Madan began to return home; however, the destruction of houses and villages, limited livelihoods (due to changes ecological conditions), and the dire lack of infrastructure and public services in the area still prevent people from returning.

ISIL invasion (2013–2017)

Missan was not directly affected by violence in the context of ISIL. The conflict brought over some IDPs (mostly from Nineveh); still, Missan hosts less than 0.2% of all IDPs in Iraq. The infrastructures appear to be mostly not damaged and mostly functioning in all districts. The only few cases of damage are reported for roads in all qadhas, especially Al-Amara – where damage/malfunctioning is also reported for schools, youth centres, fire stations and markets; however, houses are intact, there is no reported contamination by explosives, and rubble removal is needed in only 5% of IDP locations.18

17IOM: https://www.iom.int/jahia/webdav/site/myjahiasite/shared/shared/mainsite/media/docs/news/2006_iraq_idp.pdf. 18 IOM Integrated Location Assessment II Report (ILA II, completed in March-May 2017).

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II. SOCIAL PROFILE

1. Population structure and trends

With population of ca. 1.3 million (1 280 622 in 201619), Missan is home to 3.4% of Iraq’s population (on 3.7% of Iraq’s territory). Women comprise 50.2% of the population. With regard to age structure, people of working age (15-64y) comprise 53.8% (ca. 0.6 million people) – a share lower than the average for Iraq; the median age is 17 (compared to 19 for Iraq); and people over 64 years are 3%. An overwhelming 70.9% of the population are under the age of 30 (almost 0.8 million people), and children under the age of 15 (0.48 million in total) comprise 43.2% of the population. Both these figures are higher than the average for Iraq. Missan is among the governorates with the highest number of small children (under 6y). The share of youth (15-29y) is 27.7% (see Figure 9, Table 5).

Based on data from UNDP and MoP,20 for the period 2012–2016, the average annual growth rate in Missan province is 6.45% – i.e. in 4 years alone, the population has increased by 28.4%. This growth rate is more than twice higher than for Iraq in the same period (2.58%). Overall, for the period 1997–2016, the population of the governorate has doubled, at average annual growth rate of 3.74% – again higher than the same for Iraq (2.9%), Continued high growth places major developmental challenges to the governorate. High growth has been accompanied by decrease in household size: e.g. between 1997 and 2009, the population of Missan increased by 45.1%, while the household size decreased from 9.2 to 7.3.

The main driver of growth are fertility rates. In the period 1997–2013, fertility rates in Iraq have slowly decreased: from 5.7 live births per woman in 1997 to 4.2 in 2013 – which is still very high compared to the Middle East and global standards. In the same period, in Missan province fertility rates have increased – from 6 in 1997 to 7 live births per woman in 2013 – i.e. the fertility rate in Missan is almost twice higher than this for Iraq. MoP also reports exceptionally high birth rate in the province – 47.8‰ (births per 1000) in 2013, with only 3.5‰ mortality rate in the same year. For 2011, the adolescent fertility rate is 73‰ – also much higher than this for Iraq (59‰). For 2015, MoP reports 9.6% rate of early marriage (under 15 years of age) in Missan – among the highest in Iraq; and as high as 11% rate of adolescent pregnancies (in the age group 15-19). High birth rates, and high rates of adolescent marriage and pregnancy are all linked to the low level of socio-economic integration of women – which has been exacerbated in the context of violence and insecurity since 2014.

Fertility rates impact on dependency. On the whole, Missan Governorate has heavier dependency burden than the country average (i.e. higher share of consumers to producers). The youth dependency ratio (share of children under 15y as part of the working-age population) is 80.4%; the total dependency ratio is 85.9%. While the total dependency ratio has decreased since 1997 (102.4%), dependency ratios in 2016 are much higher than for Iraq on average, especially for youth dependency. The de-facto dependency rates in province are even higher when we factor in the large share of economic inactivity and unemployment. Economic growth requires lower dependency ratios – i.e. increase in the ratio of net producers to net consumers in the economy – coupled with sufficient jobs and labour absorption. In Missan, however, neither factor is present – birth rates and the share of children remain very high, while job creation and economic activity rates are stagnating.

Both urbanisation and density have increased since 1997. In 19 years, the overall urbanisation rate has increased from 66% to 74% (in 1997 and 2016 respectively). The average density is ca. 69 people/km2, but in fact, a few urban areas counterweigh a majority of rural areas (see Table 6). Significant clustering of the population is given: 50.6% of all people live in one single nahia – Al-Amara QC; and 54% live in Al-Amara Qadha, on 28% of Missan’s area – making for population density of 132 people/km2 in Amara Qadha. Another 11.4% live in Al- Mejar Al-Kabir QC. Density in Al-Kahla'a Qadha is as low as 29 people/km2. With the exception of Maimouna Qadha, urban populations are concentrated in the qadha centres, with the peripheral nahias being mostly rural. Al-Amara QC has 94% urban population and it concentrates 65.5% of the entire urban population of the province. Thus, by far, Al-Amara city is the most significant urban centre in Missan (with population just over half a million). On the whole, Missan has medium- to small-tier cities. Al-Amara and Al-Mejar Al-Kabir are the only two towns with population over 50 000 people.

19 Data sources for Chapter 1.1 (unless specified otherwise): [1] MoP estimation for 2016 based on place of birth (hospitals) & registered residency. The population number does NOT include refugees/IDPs from outside Missan. The shares of urban/rural and female/male population remain unchanged from 2015 (COSIT) to 2016 (MoP). The last population census in Iraq was in 1997. [2] UNDP (2014), Iraq Human Development Report 2014.[2] WB World Development Indicators database – estimations for 2016 (medium-fertility variant). 20 According to UNDP (2014) Iraq HDR 2014, the population of the governorate was 997 410 in 2012 and 637 126 in 1997. COSIT reports 1 078 086 population in Missan in 2015, making for 18% annual growth rate between 2015 and 2016. Thus, based on data from UNDP and COSIT, the average annual population growth rate in Missan is 2.63% for the period 2012-2015 and 2.97% for the period 1997-2015.

28 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

Currently, the trend of migration to urban areas in the course of people’s lifetimes is moderate (see Figure 9). The trend peaks in people’s late 20s; thus, the share of youth (15-24y) is slightly higher in rural than in urban areas. Steady migration from rural to urban areas is driven by poorer public service provision in rural areas, decrease of water resources, soil degradation, decline in arable and cultivated lands, low productivity and returns in the agriculture sector, overall decline of the agriculture sector, the primary role of the oil sector in the economy, limited job opportunities in rural areas. There is a high share of rural settlements with population size of less than 500 persons; with continued rural-to-urban migration, these villages could disappear. A further escalation in rural-to-urban migration bears negative implications for the agriculture sector, while it would also increase pressure on urban service provision. Therefore, development and jobs generation outside cities need to be in focus.

Migration from the province (negative coefficient – see Table 7) is driven above all by family reasons (accompanying the family, marriage, divorce, widowhood – twice higher as a factor than in Iraq), followed by job seeking (half as important as in Iraq overall). Displacement is twice lower than in Iraq. The volume of labour migration to neighbouring countries is driven by better salaries and work conditions offered.21

Table 5 Population indicators for Missan Governorate compared to the national average, 2016 Density Population groups (% of the total) Dependency Fertility rate Annual (people/ ratio growth km2) Male Female Urban Rural Under Under Youth (15- Working age Young Total Total (births Under 18y (1997- 15y 30y 29y) (15-64y) (%) (%) per woman) (per 1000) 2016, %) Missan 68.8 49.8 50.2 73.9 26.1 42.2 70.9 27.7 53.8 80.4 85.9 7 73 3.74 Iraq 85.7 50.6 49.4 68.7 30.4 40.5 67.7 27.5 56.6 72 77.1 4.2 59 2.9

Table 6 Population of Missan Governorate by administrative division, sex and urban/rural, 2016 Qadha Nahia Urban Rural Total Area Density (including (QC=Qadha Total % of % of urban Total Male Female Total % of km2 % of (people/ villages Centre) (n) people in population (n) (n) (n) (n) people Missan km2) total) administr in Missan in ative unit Missan Al-Amara Al-Amara QC 524 891 93.8 64.2 34 424 279 562 279 753 559 315 50.6 (140) Kumait 10 850 29.5 1.3 25 924 18 185 18 589 36 775 3.3 Total 535 741 89.9 65.5 60 348 297 748 298 342 596 090 53.9 4519 28.1 131.9 Ali Al- Ali Al-Garbi QC 17 488 55.1 2.1 14 224 15 749 15 963 31 712 2.9 Gharbi Ali Al-Sharqi 11 735 55.6 1.4 9353 10 474 10 614 21 088 1.9 (83) Total 29 224 55.3 3.6 23 577 26 223 26 577 52 800 4.8 3597 22.4 14.7 Al- Al-Maimouna 19 796 38.2 2.4 31 985 25 643 26 137 51 780 4.7 Maimou QC na Al-Salam 19 273 51.5 2.4 18 153 18 575 18 850 37 426 3.4 (125) Said Ahmed Al- 1566 11.2 0.2 12 413 6891 7087 13 978 1.3 Rifaai Total 40 635 39.4 5.0 62 550 51 110 52 075 103 184 9.3 2082 13.0 49.6 Qalat Qalat Saleh QC 37 922 61.7 4.6 23 520 30 547 30 895 61 442 5.6 Saleh Al-Ezair 18 216 39.7 2.2 27 698 22 743 23 170 45 914 4.2 (51) Total 56 138 52.3 6.9 51 218 53 290 54 065 107 356 9.7 1382 8.6 77.7 Al-Mejar Al-Mejar Al- 93 477 83.0 11.4 19 184 56 210 56 451 112 661 10.2 Al-Kabir Kabir QC (99) Al-Adel 16 869 78.1 2.1 4727 10 766 10 830 21 596 2.0 Al-Khayr 8917 37.0 1.1 15 211 11 946 12 182 24 128 2.2 Total 119 264 75.3 14.6 39 121 78 922 79 462 158 385 14.3 1435 8.9 110.4 Al- Al-Kahla'a QC 22 281 57.6 2.7 16 398 19 217 19 462 38 679 3.5 Kahla'a Al-Masharah 12 866 42.1 1.6 17 711 15 153 15 425 30 577 2.8 (118) Bani Hashim 1683 8.8 0.2 17 458 9432 9708 19 141 1.7 Total 36 830 41.7 4.5 51 567 43 802 44 595 88 397 8.0 3058 19.0 28.9 Missan Governorate 817 831 73.9 100 288 381 551 095 555 117 1 106 212 100 16 072 100 68.8

Table 7 Main drives for change of residency in Missan and Iraq, 2011 (%) Reason to Accompany Marriage, Work Deportation, Return from Studying/ Asylum Other Population who move the family divorce, forced deportation/ finished inside changed their place widow displacement displacement studying Iraq of residence Missan 38.7 36.1 7.0 10.3 3.5 0.0 0.0 4.4 100 Iraq 41.7 14.1 14.7 19.8 4.9 1.0 0.7 3.1 100

21 The UN medium variant forecast for population growth in Iraq suggests that in the next 20 years, this labour migration will be balanced by return of populations to home areas (including Missan).

29 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

Figure 9 Population pyramid of Missan Governorate, 2016

Urban/rural distribution by age group Male/female distribution by age group 80+ Rural 80+ Female 75-79 75-79 70-74 Urban 70-74 Male 65-69 65-69 60-64 60-64 55-59 55-59 50-54 50-54 45-49 45-49 40-44 40-44

Age group Age 35-39 35-39 30-34 30-34 25-29 25-29 70.9% 20-24 20-24 under 15-19 15-19 30 years 10-14 10-14 5-9 5-9 0-4 0-4 0% 25% 50% 75% 100% 0 20 40 60 80 100 Population (%) Population number (thousands)

2. Ethnic and religious structure

Arabs form the vast majority of Missan’s population. Ca. 95% of the population are Shi’a Muslims. Minorities include Sunni Muslims (2.5%), as well as Mandaeans, Chaldeans/Christians, Sabaeans, and others. Minorities are mainly concentrated in Al Amara city. A small group of Failli Kurds live near the border with Iran (estimated less than 30 000). The marshlands of Missan form part of the ancestral homeland of the Ma’dan or Marsh Arabs (engaged in traditional methods of agriculture, fishing and water buffalo breeding), many of whom were displaced to other locations during the draining campaign.

Tribal bonds and identity remain strong in the governorate. Missan has a strong tribal history. E.g. until 1958, Al Amara was particularly well known for the large estates and large private armies owned by sheikhs. Today, approximately two thirds of Missan's population are thought to have tribal affiliations. Tribes in Missan include various branches of the Al-Sawa'id, Albu-Muhammad, Bani Lam, Al-Sarai, Al-Bahadil, Albu Darraj, Al-Azeirij, Ka'ab, Kinana, Banu Malik, Al-Sudan, Ubada, Khafaja, Tameem, Al-Maryan, Al-Sada and Al-Sabi'a Al-Manda'iyya groups.

3. IDPs

Although Missan was not directly affected by violence in the context of ISIL, the conflict brought over some IDPs, mostly from Nineveh. Additional minor movements of IDPs originated from Anbar, Babylon, Baghdad, Kirkuk, Diyala and Salah al-Din. 22 Overall, according to IOM data, there has been a considerable decrease in the number of IDPs in Missan in the last decade: from 2203 families in 2006 (ca. 13 200 people) 2006,23 to and 658 families as of Oct 2017 (3948 people) as of 31 Oct 2017.24 Expressed as a share of Missan’s population, this IDPs population is 0.3%. All IDPs in Missan are originally from other provinces. IOM reports no IDPs from Missan displaced to other governorates

With regard to location and shelter: the distribution of IDPs per qadha roughly corresponds to the distribution of Missan’s population by qadha. Most IDPs reside in Al-Amara Qadha (84%), attracted by the availability of basic services here. The majority of IDPs in Missan live in rented houses (41%), or with a host family (35%); 14% are settled in camps; 4% are accommodated in school buildings; 1% in unfinished and abandoned buildings; 1% in religious buildings; and 4% in informal/collective settlements.

22 Data in chapter – unless specified otherwise – based on [1] IOM (31 Oct 2017), DTM Round 82; and [2] IOM Integrated Location Assessment II Report (ILA II, completed in March-May 2017). 23 https://www.iom.int/jahia/webdav/site/myjahiasite/shared/shared/mainsite/media/docs/news/2006_iraq_idp.pdf. 24 MoMD reports 34 014 IDPs in July 2012; COSIT (survey) reports 5245 IDPs in 2014.

30 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

With regard to social profile: most IDPs in Missan are either Shia Arabs, Turkomen, and Shabak; Shia Muslims account for 80% of IDPs in Missan. IDPs chose Missan as a displacement destination mostly because of its perceived security (87%). There is good interaction among IDPs and host communities; no cases of discrimination/evictions are reported. Ca. 2% are willing to locally integrate, encouraged by religious/community leaders (in Al-Maimouna, and Al-Mejar Al-Kabir host communities); the vast majority intend to return to their areas of origin.

As of 01 Nov 2015, 2 formal IDP settlements in Missan remain operational, including: 1 camp – Eyes of Missan (Al-Amara QC) with population of 346 individuals; and 1 collective centre – Al Hay Al Jamei (Al-Amara QC) – with population of 892 individuals.25 Eyes of Missan camp is managed by Local Authorities/MoMD; as of Dec 2017, the main needs of camp populations are food, water and winter items; high/very high gap in services is given for GBV, shelter, health and livelihoods; and medium gap in services is given for food, protection, child protection, education, and waste removal.26

Overall for IDPs in Missan, the number one concern is affordable food, followed by the poor quality of infrastructure and the lack of jobs and housing (particularly in Al-Amara). The majority of IDPs cannot afford to pay a rent. IDP families living in Missan are highly dependent on (exhausted) savings, informal commerce and daily labour; while most IDPs are still receiving their salaries from the government, given the low employment figures in Missan, in 93% of locations the majority of IDPs were reported as unemployed.

Domestic violence is the main social/protection concern for IDPs – which is also a concern among host populations. Domestic violence and petty crimes are reported to affect respectively 69% and 32% of IDPs. Notably, Missan hosts 1% of all IDP female heads of households in Iraq, meaning that nearly one fourth of IDP families are female-headed.

4. Living conditions

Access to basic services

Access to basic services in Missan province is among the lower in Iraq. Service indicators are driven up by high household access to electricity (99.7%) and public sewerage (60% - compared to 32.5%. country average).27 However, drinking water access, the province has the unique situation where water resources are available, but only 38.9% of households have access to improved water source within 1 h distance (see Figure 10). Less than 2% of the population receive public network tap water (see Table 7). Also, ca. 25% of households use as sewage disposal method exposed streams – compared to 7.9% national average.

Ownership of housing is 88% of households. Ca. 9% of the population (109 103 people) live in random housing in 61 informal housing complexes in urban areas in the governorate.28 Public services cannot be delivered to random settlements; in result, typically they lack basic services and infrastructure (although in many cases, inhabitants deliver water and electricity from close-by formal neighbourhoods, which has been adding pressure on the existing public facilities, networks and services).

Overall, deprivation from basic services is among the highest in Iraq – 14.2% from sewer systems (compared to 6% national average), 95.4% from improved drinking water (33% in Iraq), 6.9% from shelter (1% in Iraq).

Healthcare access is limited. While the infant mortality is the lowest in Iraq (1.6‰), the maternal mortality (38‰) is higher than the national average. The number of doctors per 10 000 people (6.2) is the 14th lowest in Iraq. The average time needed to arrive at a health centre is the fourth longest in Iraq – 28.7 min (compared to 19.7 national average). Satisfaction with medical services (81.5%) is also lower than the average in Iraq (84.9%).

Access to education in the province is among the higher in Iraq (although this fails to translate into high education levels – see below). E.g. in 2012, across levels, the student-to-teacher ratios were 18 total, 21 for boys and 16 for girls – higher in total and for girls than the average for Iraq; and 1 in 9 students takes more than 1

25 UNHCR–CCCM (Nov 2017), Iraq - CCCM Settlement Status Report (15 Oct–15 Nov 2017): https://data2.unhcr.org/es/documents/download/60901. 26 Cf. https://data2.unhcr.org/en/documents/download/61204; https://data2.unhcr.org/en/documents/download/61666. 27 All data in Chapter II.2 – unless otherwise specified – are from: [1] UNDP (2014), Iraq Human Development Report (HDR) 2014; and [2] UNDP/UN-Habitat (22 Nov 2016), LADP: Strategic Urban Development Framework for Governorates in Iraq – Indicator Technical Brief. 28 COSIT data for 2013. Illegal expansion of settlements post 2003 has been driven by: increased demand on housing and lack of vacant land plots for housing; high prices of housing land for limited/low income people; failure of the government to fulfil its commitment to provide public housing within reasonable prices; delay in updating the main design of the cities; weak governance and control after 2003, resulting in violations of state-owned land.

31 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS hour to get to school – which is a lower rate than in Iraq. Notably, access to internet is lower in the province than in Iraq; correspondingly electronic illiteracy is high. Only 14.9% of young men and 2.1% of young women use internet (compared to 24.8% and 10.9% in Iraq, respectively). Ca. 17% of internet use is through mobile phones, and internet use at work is only 12.3%. Notably, internet is not used by the educational institutions.

Household access to amenities and household appliances is lower than in Iraq with regard to car ownership, availability at home of a cooker (gas, electric or oil), fan, heater (oil, gas or electric), refrigerator, freezer, etc. Only access to air-conditioning (47%) is higher than the national average (41%). Improvement in this regard since 2011 has been a moderate – with the exception of access to hot water, which has increase by over 10%.

Figure 10 Access to services indicators for Missan province29 100 99,7 88 80 68,5 60 60,7 59,6 40 38,9 38 28,7 20 22,9 18 6,2 1,6 10,4

0

teacher teacher

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ratio

(%)

(‰) (‰)

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centre (min) centre

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Student

electricity (%) electricity

to a healthcare healthcare a to

septic tank (%) tank septic

Literacy (12y+) (%) (12y+) Literacy

public sewerage/ sewerage/ public

Doctors per 10 000 000 10 per Doctors

Maternal mortality mortality Maternal

Students (6y+) who who (6y+) Students get to min 60+ take

Average time to get get to time Average

public sewerage (%) sewerage public

Households with car car with Households

Household access to to access Household to access Household to access Household

Infant mortality (‰) (‰) mortality Infant Household access to to access Household drinking water within within water drinking Legend: Orange – Missan; Grey – range between top- and lowest- performing governorate

Table 8 Main drinking water source for populations in Missan/Iraq, 201430 Residential unit connected to Public network Tanker River, canal or Opened or Other public network tap water stream covered well Missan 79.5% 1.8% 0.2% 17.3% 1.1% 0.1% Iraq 86.2% 1.9% 3.0% 3.8% 4.5% 0.5%

Income, poverty and deprivation

The economic level of people in Missan is among the highest in Iraq (see Figure 10). By 2011 data, among Iraq’s 18 governorates, Missan scores 3rd on GNI per capita (2012 PPP$) – with USD 34 598; 3rd on GDP per capita – with USD 10 785; and 6th on Annual Household Income – with USD 19 700. The average salary and average household income are lower than the respective national values for those indicators. Still, per capita on average, the monthly income exceeds the monthly expenditure by 23% (by 9% in rural areas).

31 At the same time, by 2012 data, a staggering 42.3% of the population live in poverty - i.e. Missan is the third poorest governorate in Iraq (after Muthanna and Qadessyiah). Missan has a disproportionately high share of poor people: it is home to ca. 3% of Iraqis but 6% of the poor in Iraq – implying income disparities and a high share of people living just below the poverty line. Additionally, 30.4% of the population live in multidimensional poverty (almost twice the national average).

Poverty enhances deprivation. Overall, Missan has the second highest deprivation level in Iraq (index score 0.337) - due to low levels of schooling, limited access to water, high youth unemployment, and overall lack of employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas due to water shortages and conflicts between agricultural use and ecosystem restoration of the marshlands. The overall quality of life is the lowest in Iraq (index score 0.558 – see Figure 12).

29 All tables in chapter, unless specified otherwise, show latest UNDP/UN-Habitat data from 2011–2015. 30 Governorate information. 31 At poverty level benchmark = cost of purchasing the maintenance of adult caloric intake of 2200 calories/day.

32 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

Figure 11 Income and poverty indicators for Missan province

60 40 42,3 34,598 30,4 20 19,7 10,785 0 GDP per capita GNI per capita (thousand Annual Household Poverty (%) Multi-dimensional (thousand USD) $PPP) Income (thousand USD) poverty (%)

Legend: Orange – Missan; Black – Iraq; Grey – range between top- and lowest- performing governorate

Figure 12 Human development scores for Missan province (range 0–1) 0,9 0,804 0,7 0,639 0,653 0,538 0,554 0,551 0,53 0,558 0,5 0,48 0,39 0,3 0,331 0,337

0,1

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29)

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adjusted adjusted

adjusted adjusted

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income HD income

29)

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HDI HDI

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Birth Index Index Birth

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Education Index Education

Non

Education Index Education

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Gender Inequality Inequality Gender

Life Expectancy at at Expectancy Life

Index, female (15 female Index,

Inequality

Index, total (15 total Index,

Development Index Index Development

Inequality

Quality of Life Index Life of Quality Youth Development Development Youth Youth Development Development Youth Legend: Orange – Missan; Black – Iraq; Grey – range between top- and lowest- performing governorate

Inequality

Inequality in Missan is pronounced. The UNDP 2014 Human Development Index (HDI) for Missan shows “medium human development” – 0.639 (the lowest in Iraq) – reflecting lagging progress in health, education, jobs provision and service provision. However, the inequality-adjusted HDI for Missan is even lower – 0.538 (again lowest in Iraq): i.e. Missan has in fact “low human development” and suffers 11% loss of development due to inequality. The loss of development due to inequality is particularly pronounced for youth and women – meaning that youth and women are the biggest victims of systematic shortage of good governance, service provision. The very high Gender Inequality Index (0.554) is driven by low economic inclusion and education of women. The exclusion of youth (15-29y) is particularly striking. In Missan, the Youth Development Index (YDI) is only 0.551 total (compared to 0.641 average for Iraq) – corresponding to “low human development.” For young women – the YDI is as low as 0.390 (compared to 0.535 average for Iraq), corresponding to “very low human development.” I.e., young women suffer the highest exclusion levels in the province.

Across nahias, the poverty rates are higher than the national average. But even within this overall deprivation, poverty levels very greatly across nahias and spatial inequality is pronounced: . Overall, the poverty rate is 73% in rural areas and 42.3% in urban areas; . In share of people in poverty, Said Ahmed Al-Rifaai Nahia, Qalat Saleh QC, Al-Ezair and Bani Hashim nahias are among the 10 poorest nahias in Iraq (68-72%). The poverty rate is lowest in Ali Al-Sharqi (21%) nahia – which is still higher than the national average. More than a third of the nahias have a poverty rate of more than 60%. Al-Khayr, Al-Salam, Said Ahmed Al-Rifaai, Qalat Saleh QC have poverty rates in the range 64-58%. The areas with a high share of poverty are areas that have been marginalised historically/politically and left out of the development process. The two poorest nahias – Al-Ezair (70%) and Bani Hashim (72%) – are located on the border with Iran. Very high poverty rates in the south of the province are linked to the loss of wetlands, which has uprooted Marsh Arabs from their livelihoods; . The highest number of poor people is in the urban centres. Al-Amara QC is among the 10 poorest nahias in Iraq in number of poor people (132 000). Al-Maimouna QC, Al-Mejar Al-Kabir QC, Qalat Saleh QC, and Al-Amara together they account for 62% of the poor in Missan.

Spatial differences in service provision and job opportunities perpetuate disparity in poverty levels and human development prospects across nahias – as they affect e.g. early marriages, education levels, labour market structure, etc. E.g. with regard to education provision, illiteracy levels across nahias vary from 23% (Al-Amara Qadha) to 50% (Qalat Saleh). People in rural areas are among the most severely affected by lack of economic perspectives and of appropriate infrastructure and public services (see Table 9).

33 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

Table 9 Disparity in socio-economic indicators in Missan by qadha and urban/rural, 201332 Qadha Average Poverty Labour market Unemployment Illiteracy Families who own a family size (n) rate(%) participation (15y+, %) (15y+, %) (15y+, %) housing unit (%) Al-Amara 8.0 25.4 43.6 18.7 22.8 75.9 Ali Al-Gharbi 8.1 10.3 43.6 13.3 28.3 64.9 Al-Maimouna 8.7 61.9 42.0 4.9 37.9 96.2 Qalat Saleh 8.8 71.6 37.1 14.7 49.6 82.8 Al-Mejar Al-Kabir 8.4 61.2 36.5 8.5 37.4 89.8 Al-Kahla'a 8.6 79.9 37.4 13.2 47.0 92.6 Urban 8.0 29.1 42.0 16.9 22.2 76.5 Rural 8.9 73.0 40.0 10.3 53.3 92.8 Total 8.2 42.3 41.5 15.3 31.1 81.1

Education levels

Missan scores very poorly on literacy. According to UN-Habitat, the province has the 2nd highest illiteracy rate among Iraqi governorates – ca. 31% total (compared to 13% national average), and the highest youth illiteracy – 28% (almost twice the national average) (see Figure 14). Notably, illiteracy among women is also among the worst in Iraq – 42.2% (compared to 30% national average) – while the education level of the mother is among the key determinants of student (esp. girls) enrolment and drop-out. The illiteracy rates correlate with poverty rates: in districts where the illiteracy reaches over 35%, the population in risk of poverty is over 60%.

Gender variation in education attainment in favour of boys is exceedingly pronounced. Based on data for 2011- 2012: youth illiteracy is 18% among young men, but illiteracy in Missan is highest among young women – a staggering 37%; literacy in the age group 12y+ is 68.5% total – 79.7% for men and 57.8% for women; in the age group 15y+, the dropout rate is 57.4% total, and as high as 69.4% among girls; while the completion of studies rate is only 14.1% total, 17.6% for boys and 7.4% for girls; in the age group 25y+, people with at least secondary education comprise 27% of men, and only 12% of women; etc.

By means years of schooling total (7.4), the province ranks 16th in Iraq (7 for men, 7.7. for women). In the age group 25y+, the mean years of schooling are less – 5.7 for men and only 4.4 for women (compared to 6.6. and 6.2 at the national levels). I.e. there is high need of adult education and literacy classes – especially for women.

Compared to previous 2007, the situation in education in 2011-2012 in fact presents a slight negative trend.

Figure 13 Education attainment levels in Missan and Iraq total for people over 10 years of age, 201233

Other Total Bachelor &more Missan Diploma (vocational) Prepatory Or vocational Intermediate Primary Read & Write Read only Illiterate

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35%

32 MoP, Social and economic survey conducted in 2013. 33 COSIT.

34 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

Figure 14 Education attainment levels and labour market outcomes, Missan province 100 70,2 56,4 80 74,2 18,3 60 43,2 42,2 37,8 29 11,1 27 40 23 31,5 27,8 14,1 12 11,9 11,1 12,9 20 7,4

0

29y, %) 29y,

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youth (%) youth

out rate youth (%) youth rate out

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education (%) education

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out rate young women women young rate out

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rate (LFPR) total (15y+) total (LFPR) rate

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Illiterate people total (%) total people Illiterate (%) education secondary

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Labour force participation participation force Labour

Unemployment youth ( %) ( youth Unemployment

Unemployment female (%) female Unemployment

Completed study youth (%) youth study Completed

Men (25y+) with secondary secondary with (25y+) Men Mean years of schooling (n) schooling of years Mean Drop Legend: Orange – Missan (values show) ; Black – Iraq; Grey – range between top- and lowest- performing governorate

Employment

According to UNDP/UN-Habitat data for 2012, unemployment in Missan is 12.9% total – higher than the national average, and 4th highest in Iraq. MoP 2013 survey suggests that in Missan, the total rate of unemployment is 15% – again fourth highest in Iraq. Unemployment is pronouncedly higher among women - 14.6% among men and 19.8% among women. Youth unemployment (ages 15-29) is as high as 23% - among the highest in Iraq.

In addition, this high unemployment goes hand-in-hand with low participation in the economy, low share of employment (see Figure 14), and a very high rate of underemployment and share of working poor (disguised unemployment). . Participation in the labour market among the working age population is slightly below the average for Iraq. In 2012, this was 41.5% - 10 percentage points lower than in 2004; and it was 74.1% among men and 7 times lower among women (10.8%). I.e. female participation in the labour market is lowest in Missan among all Iraqi governorates. . Missan has one of the lowest countrywide figures of employment. The employment data also reveal significant gender variation: 74.2% employment rate for men (third highest in Iraq) vs. only 11.1% employment rate for women (ranking Missan 12th among the 18 governorates). Employment is 2% higher in urban compared to rural areas; at the nahia level, it varies from 43.6% to 36% (vs. average value of 41.5% in the country). The lower employment rate combined with the higher portion of the population outside the leads to larger parts of the population at risk of poverty. . Underemployment is more than 21%. Seasonal employment is 14%.

Women’s access to economic opportunities is disproportionately limited. Women comprise more than half of the population, but men are more than 6 times more active in the labour market than women. More centrally, in every 100 women looking for work, only 11 get employed – compared to 74 for men. Young women are particularly disadvantaged – with only 4 in 100 active young women getting a job.

The large majority (83%) of employees in Missan work on a full time basis (labour contract); this share is slightly higher than the average in Iraq – however, in developing economy, this is not a clear indicator of protection of workers. Notably, only up to 5% among women are employed on full-time basis – i.e. worker rights protection is very low for women.

Development of the private sector is key. Among youth in Missan, 62% work/wish to work in the public sector; employment in the public sector is particularly important for young women. The majority of youth see the private sector as unattractive or cannot find realisation there.

35 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

Labour market outcomes of education

In Missan, the labour market outcomes of education Figure 15 Education attainment levels of employed are poor. The main constraints are: (1) limited populations by sex, Missan, 2015 employment opportunities in dynamic sectors; (2) Read and write mismatch between the output of the education system Primary education and skills demand; and (3) hiring practices based on Intermediate education personal/family relations and political/tribal affiliation, Preparatory education rather than qualification and merit. The outcomes are Diploma (vocational) particularly low for women (see Figure 15). Overall, the High-school diploma majority of employed people are illiterate (32%) or have Bachelor degree only primary/secondary education (47%); workers with Master degree completed degree or higher education are only 21%; the Doctorate degree 34 share of “white collar” workers is particularly small. Male Female 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

According to UNDP 2012 survey, 78% of youth (15-29y) are satisfied with education quality – but many feel discouraged from education due to its poor relevance for finding a job. Personal/family relations and relations with politicians are the main determinant of employment for 40% of youth. Work experience (skills/ competences obtained on the job, outside formal education) is the second highest determinant – 24%. Notably, technical or professional training is the highest determinant of employment for young women (50%), but it only factors in 18% of the total of youth employment. Only 11.2% of employed youth got their jobs based on educational attainment – 10.3% of young men and 25% of young women.

Corruption

Iraq ranks 166th out of 176 countries total (score 16/100) on the 2016 Corruption Perception Index of Transparency International; it has more or less kept this rank since 2006. Rampant corruption affects socio- economic development on many levels – from discouraging private sector development, to ineffective placement of human resources, jobs available, unequal distribution of services, etc.

5. Vulnerable groups and social protection

Disadvantaged host community groups include orphans, women providers, persons with disability (PwDs), minors and youth (up to 29 years old), and certain groups of economically disadvantaged individuals and families. Missan Governorate data on group size and needs are lacking, which prevents effective planning of programmes and resources to support disadvantaged people to participate fully in social and economic life.

It is estimated that: . An overwhelming 70.9% of the population are under the age of 30 (almost 0.8 million people); children under 15 are 0.48 million (43.2% of the population)35; . Reflective of the higher proportion of female population overall, Missan has 17% female-headed households – the highest figure among Iraqi governorates36; . 42.3% of the population live in poverty – i.e. more than 540 000 people; the poverty rate is 73% in rural areas and 42.3% in urban areas37; . MoP estimates that unemployment in Missan was 15% in 2013; . Persons with disabilities (PwDs) comprise 2.6% of the total population of Missan (2% of the female and 3.3% of the male population), and 0.9% of the youth population (15-29y)38; . A total of 3000 people are in critical need in Missan province, of whom 50% are women, 51% are children and 3% are elderly people.39

34 Survey of the Iraqi knowledge network (Al-Ma'rifa) in 2011. 35MoP data for 2016 – see Chapter II.1. 36 IOM Integrated Location Assessment II Report (ILA II, completed in March-May 2017): https://bit.ly/2s68adP. 37 UNDP 2014 Iraq HDR – data for 2012. 38 Ibid. 39 UN OCHA(Feb 2018), 2018 Iraq Humanitarian Response Plan: https://bit.ly/2wCWvcq. The UN OCHA Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) for 2018-19 has been developed to target populations in critical need throughout Iraq, excluding refugee response.

36 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

Support for vulnerable groups in Missan through the Government is weak. This is due to lack of financial resources, shortage of specialised facilities and services (e.g. for PwDs); shortage of facilities and programmes to encourage the social inclusion of youth, women and other vulnerable groups; inefficiencies in allocation of support; low staff capacity; etc.

Social protection in Missan is administered through the Department of Social Protection in Missan under the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MoLSA). . MoLSA allocates subsidy salaries to families under the poverty line, as well as to women providers – widows and divorced women who have children (from the social protection network and women’s protection network), in accordance with the number of family members. MoLSA also provides educational courses (2-month – in English and Arabic) and vocational courses (1-week to 6-month – in a number of fields) to unemployed and to women, so boost their skills and increase their chances for employment or own business.40 Persons with disability and persons with special needs are targeted under the umbrella of MoLSA in several sections: State shelters, Mental disability, Physical disability, Protected workshops and productive cooperatives for PwDs, Fully disabled persons, Nurseries, and Centre for diagnosing disabilities. . In 2014, the Department of Social Protection in Missan operated 3 units and had 70 staff (COSIT); . In 2014, social welfare beneficiaries were 39 414 in 2014, including 48.7% women (COSIT);

The Ministry of Youth and Sport is responsible for seven Youth Forums in Missan, which provide sporting, arts, cultural and educational activities for young people. Two youth and sports centres are located in Amara City and five others are located in Al-Majar Al-Kabir, Ali Al-Gharbi, Al-Meshara, Al-Uzayr and Al-Maimouna.

A number of sporting federations located in Amara City are responsible for organizing national league matches. There is also a football stadium, since football is the most popular sport in Iraq.

Involvement of youth is supported also through a number of cultural and sports organisations, including e.g. the Ministry of Culture has a public library and a museum in Amara City; the Culture Modern Library; the Culture and Arts Palace project in Amara is considered one of the biggest infrastructure projects in the province. Main cultural institutions and sport clubs in the province: Amara Public Central Library; Educational Centre of Missan Oil Company; Educational Centre of Missan University; Missan Educational Centre; Football clubs (7); Basketball clubs (2); Female sport club for all ages; Shooting club Billiard club.

One of the social negative phenomena in Missan society is the addiction to hookah which is rife among young male. To counter this phenomenon, a wide awareness campaign and establishment of youth-centred facilities are needed.

6. Human rights, civil society, public participation and media

6.1. The human rights situation

The local authorities report that the rights of all people, including members of minorities, are respected in the Governorate. E.g. religious ceremonies are practiced by all religions in Missan and some are shared among religions. Muslims and Christians celebrate Christmas, and Mandaeans hold celebration in reverence of John the Baptist in March.

Although many Iraqis no longer face legal obstacles to the exercise of a range of human rights and have begun to make use of their new freedoms, the security situation and the influence of groups that embrace strict Islamic values are still an obstacle to the full enjoyment of these rights in the 21st century. Drive-by shootings, extra- judicial killings and ‘honour killings’ have all been reported in the Governorate since 2003. A newly renovated girls’ school was bombed in 2003, and cinemas and shops selling alcohol or DVDs (none of which are illegal under Iraqi legislation) have been targeted by Islamist militias.

Religious minorities have decreased in numbers in Missan Governorate since 2003, as they have come under increasing pressure by radical Islamist groups and their opportunities to openly pursue their traditions, customs and ways of life have decreased. Chaldean-Assyrian and Mandaean community members consider themselves a

40 In 2013, ca. 72% of all beneficiaries of MoLSA education and vocational courses were women.

37 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS vulnerable minority in Iraqi society because of their limited financial means and the lack of tribal links protecting their members. Minority religious, tribal and ethnic groups are generally more vulnerable to persecution and criminality because of minimal opportunities to draw on support and protection from influential powers such as political parties, militias or tribes.

The Ministry of Human Rights (MoHR) has a representative in Missan Governorate and an office in Basra. The Ministry works with returnees, political prisoners and victims of human rights abuses and is investigating the thousands of missing persons and mass grave sites and gathering evidence regarding the drainage of the Iraqi marshlands. Additionally, an office of the Ministry of Displacement and Migration (MoDM) was opened in Missan in Aug 2004.

In recent times the provincial government of Missan has been more successful than others in Iraq in delivering public services. As reported in the New York Times, "Roads are being paved, new sewage systems installed and residents now enjoy electricity for up to 22 hours a day." A Provincial Reconstruction Committee plans and coordinates reconstruction in the Governorate.

6.2. Gender issues

Women’s right to participation in social and political life in Iraq has been recognised in the establishment of a National Women’s Commission and the inclusion of women in electoral legislation. In Southern Iraq, however, women have reported a deterioration of opportunities for active participation in society, education and employment, and increased pressure to adhere to conservative traditions, including dress codes. Women have received threats for failing to comply with such prescriptions.

Particularly in rural areas in the South, women are at risk of ‘honour killings’ to cleanse the family’s honour in cases when their behaviour is perceived to have brought shame on the family. The Iraqi Penal Code (Law No. 111 of 1969) contains provisions that allow for lenient punishments of ‘honour killings‘ on the grounds of provocation or if the accused had ‘honourable motives’. No exact figures on the extent of the practice are available and many cases undoubtedly go unreported; but NGOs believe that in areas where cultural values and traditions remain very strong, the tradition may be common. Also, traditions such as forced and/or early marriage are widespread, mainly in rural areas.

Currently, services for women within the judicial or security systems in Missan are lacking. Police stations rarely have female staff, lawyer or health adviser available for women to speak to. Furthermore, there are no institutions providing legal advice, social counselling, mediation programmes or shelter for women at risk of violence (including ‘honour killings’).

Women also are affected by the following factors in the province: . Security situation: Lack of security and the large number of explosions and accidents led to the reduction of the number of males – leading to increase in the number of widows and orphans at a rate higher than normal. The number of women (widows) registered with the Social Protection Commission and Women Care Department as the main supporters of their families is very high. Many families are dependent on the scanty salary of the mother allocated by the Social Care Department which can barely support survival. The security situation is also an obstacle for women to work; . Social reality: Customs, traditions and the tribal character prevailing in the province restrict women in participation in the activities they like and increase of the number of girls leaving schools or universities due to parental rejection. This leads to increased ignorance and low knowledge and increase in the number of illiterate and uneducated women; . Economic reality: Deterioration of the Iraqi economy (because of its oil dependence) has led to an increase in the number of unemployed and lack of employment opportunities, specifically resulting in:  Reluctance of men to marry – because of lack of secure income and lack of resources to pay for marriage ceremony and open a house – and increase in the number of unmarried women;  Increase in the number of divorces in Missan – driven above all by economic factors. Married couples often cannot afford their own home and have to live with the parents; husband's parents often interfere in the lives of spouses, which creates problems between the spouses. According to statistics by social researchers at the court of Missan, this is one of the main factors leading to divorce.

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To improve the status of women and community awareness of the rights of women, it is necessary to: . Provide health services for women, especially in densely populated and rural areas; . Step up awareness campaigns and community education aimed to shun tribal opinions that are against the rights of women, and encourage families to allow daughters to work in different fields; . Protect women against domestic violence and enact strict laws in this regard; . Establish a union for businesswomen and encourage women to engage in women-led businesses.

6.3. Civil society and Media

Before 2003, only government-funded organisations and unions were allowed to operate in Iraq. After the fall of the former regime, new governmental and non-governmental organisations have been formed. Over 100 NGOs are known to have been created in Missan Governorate since 2003.

Main civil society organisations in Missan are: . Missan Organisation for Human Rights . Technical organisation . Al-Siraj for Development . Missan activists . Nab’a Al-Hanan Women Organisation . Education and Construction Youth . Iraqi Women Association . Gulf War Prisoners Assembly . Rusul Al-Mawada Organisation . Love Messengers Organisation . We are Hope and Humanity Organisation . Orphan Happiness and Poor Smile Organisation.

Scope of work of these local organisations is still narrow and unorganised due to their internal structure and they are not up to performing high profile activities.

NGOs in Missan specialise in a number of fields, including social development, protection of women and children, humanitarian services, education, civil dialogue and protection of the Iraqi marshlands. There are also a range of other civil society organisations, including tribal councils, professional associations and organisations affiliated with religious and political groups. A number of umbrella organisations exist, which arrange weekly meetings and which include the Iraqi Commission for Civil Society.

Local, national and international press is available in Missan Governorate. Local newspapers include Al-Amara, Missan, Al-Mathar and Al-Itra. National newspapers include AzZaman, As-Sabah, Baghdad, Al-Mada, Al- Mu’tamar, As-Sabah Al-Jadeed, Al-Dustoor and Al-Ittihad. The international newspaper Ash-Sharq Al-Awsat is also available. There is a local radio channel called Al-Amarah and national channels are also available, including Al-Marbid, Sawt Al-Jamaheer, Baghdad, Al-Furat, Wadi Al-Rafidayn. Some international radio channels can be listened to, including Monte Carlo, BBC and Sawa. There is a local TV channel called Al-Amarah in addition to satellite channels, which are available in Missan. The most common TV channels are Al-Iraqiyah, Ash-Sharqiyya, AlJazeera and Al-Arabiya, who each have correspondents within the Governorate.

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III. ECONOMIC PROFILE

1. Economic development

By 2011 data, among Iraq’s 18 governorates, Missan scores 3rd on GNI per capita (2012 PPP$) – with USD 34 598; 3rd on GDP per capita – with USD 10 785; and 6th on Annual Household Income – with USD 19 700. According to expert assessments, Missan contributes ca. 16% of the national GDP.

At the same time, a staggering 42.3% of the population live in poverty (16th highest share in Iraq), and 30.4% in live in multidimensional poverty (almost twice the national average). Unemployment is very high - 12.3% total in 2012 (and possibly 13–15% total in 2017), and 23% among youth – among the highest in Iraq. High unemployment, coupled with very high underemployment, low employment, and low labour market participation rates, indicate a stagnating labour market, predominance of low-quality low-pay jobs, and failure of the public sector (including the administration and the oil sector) to provide employment opportunities.41

All these figures indicate that, despite the high values of the macroeconomic indicators, Missan has a stagnant and vulnerable economy; and despite having rich oil reserve fields, Missan is one of the poorest governorates in Iraq. The main features of Missan’s economy are also the factors that reduce its economic resilience.  Overdependence on oil and hydrocarbons as a source of wealth;  Focus of both institutions and labour market entrants on the public sector/SOEs;  Weak private sector; . Neglected agriculture sector and weak rural development; . Weak infrastructure.

Dependency of the economy on oil makes it very exposed and vulnerable to shocks and decline in oil prices – while labour absorption is very low in the oil sector. The non-oil industry and tourism sectors do not make full use of available resources (see Chapters III.2 and III.5), while the agriculture sector has been stagnating (see Chapter III.3). The overall structure of the economy in 2011 is as follows (see Figures 16 and 17; Figure 18 provides a more detailed analysis for 2013): . Industry – 66% of GDP. The GDP contribution of the oil sector was 54% in 2011 – but labour absorption in eth oil sector is very low. E.g. altogether mining and quarrying (mainly oil) comprised 70% of the GDP contribution in 2013 – but employed only 3.6% of all workers. The manufacturing sector contributed only 1% of the GDP in 2011, and construction contributed 11%. The overall labour absorption in the entire industry sector was only 14% in 2016; . Services – 31% of GDP. This includes 10% from transport services, 1% from services in the tourism sector, and 20% from “other services” including the public sector, health, social works, personal services, private households, renting and financial intermediation. Labour absorption in the services sector as a whole was 68% in 2016; . Agriculture – 3%. The GDP contribution of the agriculture sector is exceedingly low – although labour absorption is highest in agriculture (18% in 2016).

Dependency on jobs in the public sector in very high – including jobs in the administration, education and health sectors, and in state-owned enterprises (in the trade and industry sectors, especially in the oil industry). The second highest labour absorption is in the agriculture sector. At the same time: . Labour absorption and jobs generation in state-owned enterprises (SOEs) is very low (see Chapter II.2). Focus on SOEs reduces economic resilience, as discourages private sector development, entrepreneurship and diversification. SOEs rely on limited financial allocations from the central budget; economic planning capacity in the public sector is weak; and there is limited technological uptake, while most technology used is outdated; . While labour absorption in the public administration is high (17% of workers in 2011), the representation of women in the administration is very small (it is 11.6% of the workforce in the Directorates). Altogether, only 5% of working women can rely on full-time labour-contract employment; . The private sector – dominated by small-scale enterprises – is characterised by low skills intensity, high labour intensity, low productivity, low level of technology adoption, low competitiveness, and very low jobs creation. Medium and large companies are specialised in manufacturing and construction; small

41 Poverty, employment, inequality and labour market outcomes of education are detailed in Chapter II.2.

40 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

companies are more specialised in services and trade. The role of the private sector is still weak due to a many reasons preventing its growth and lack of a legal frame to encourage using the private sector and encouraging individual initiatives. Inter alia, while the private sector employs the majority of the working poor, its weakness undermines poverty reduction efforts; . Agriculture is dominated by small-scale farming. Again, it is characterised by low technology uptake, outdated methods, weak management capacity, low productivity and competitiveness. Low economic returns in the sector and difficult socio-economic conditions in rural areas are among the main factors that drive migration to urban areas. The share of rural settlements with population size of less than 500 persons in Missan is high; in the absence of development of the agriculture sector and investment in rural areas, these villages will likely disappear in the future.

Reliance on public sector employment is higher in Missan than in Iraq on average: e.g. in 2011, the public sector provided 40% of all employment in Iraq42 - but an entire 62% of all workers in Missan in the age group 15y+, while the private sector employed 34% of workers, and the mixed sector/PPPs – only 4%.43 Additionally, in 2012, 62.6% of young people who responded to the UNDP Youth Survey in Iraq,44 responded that they worked/wished to work in the public sector (compared to 45.2% in Iraq on average). But in the context of population boom and increasing urbanisation, reliance on public sector employment only drives low economic participation and high unemployment, with their social risks.

Figure 16 Sector contribution to GDP in Missan, 2011 (%)45 Figure 17 Employment by sector, 2016 (%)46

2% 2% Agriculture Public administration 8% 18% Trade 11% Industry Other 17% 12% Transportation Education 14% 16% Health Society

Figure 18 Sector contribution to GDP and employment in Missan for 201347

42 USAID (2012) cited in http://www.thearabweekly.com/Economy/8982/Iraq%E2%80%99s-chronic-mismatch-between-education%2C-employment. 43 Structural Plan Phase II (2013). 44 UNDP (2014), Iraq HDR 2014. 45 Governorate data. 46 Baseline study. 47 UN-Habitat 2016 study using COSIT data for 2013.

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Additionally, the mono-sector economy of the province entails very serious risks to balanced and inclusive local development. Outstanding inequalities are observed across areas and between the different societal groups (e.g. significant differences in employment levels are established with regard to women and youth – see Chapter II.2), which results part from the sector structure of the economy. E.g.: . The focus on the oil sector has factored in the increased level of migration to urban areas – as improved public services and better job opportunities have become available in the cities – and the overall decline of the agriculture sector. Lack of investments in the agriculture sector has driven loss of arable and cultivated land – as drainage infrastructure has declined, driving up waterlogging and increased salinity levels; as well as low productivity and returns – linked to low technological capacity, lack of inputs, inadequate development of marketing and credit functions – all of which drive low productivity, low prices, and low returns for farmers; . Youth job placement data show that corruption and patronage, made possible by resource-based state industries, undermine the private sector as they discourage entrepreneurship. Young people are underrepresented in government jobs, while the weakness and stagnation of the private sector prevents it from being an engine of employment for youth.48

Overall, the labour market is unable to absorb the youth bulge – which is a problem of low labour intensity in the oil sector, overall low availability of decent jobs, as well as a problem of mismatch between demand and supply in the labour market and low level of human capital development. Across almost all sectors, the lack of specialised skilled labour is a major concern for the future developments in the province – while the labour market returns in education tend to be low, especially for women (see Chapter II.2).

Furthermore, the lack of strong, well-maintained infrastructures – particularly at grid level (i.e. telecommunications, transport, and electric grid) – drastically limit economic growth. The reasons for such a delay in infrastructures lies in a mix factors – including the effects of war, limited local planning, inadequate financial resources, poor policy-level decisions, corruption, and lack of competition. The proper work of all economic sectors – as a stand-alone units as well as part of an integrated border entity – requires the presence of solid, yet flexible, networks with regard to transportation, telecommunications and electricity.

Finally, social and environmental issues are just as important to the economic development of the governorate. Whereas not directly part of the economic backbone, social and environmental sectors are integral to economic development: . Weak natural resource management (NRM) for economic development – and WRM in particular – are at the core of many issues that stall economic development: above all, lack of diversification, lack of spatial balance of economic opportunities, pollution, lack of water and loss of resources. The sharp decrease in Iraq’s water resources is yet another factor leading to the gradual migration from rural to urban areas. Ongoing damming upstream of the province and climate change mean that issues related to resource management and resource availability/quality will only exacerbate in the future; . Significant spatial disparities in the levels of service provision, development and poverty exist between the nahias; socio-economic development is overall weaker in rural areas (see Chapter II.2). On the whole, the economic prospects in rural areas are low. This drives up social risks across the province – e.g. poverty, high school dropout rate, adolescent pregnancies, etc. in rural areas, and growth of urban poverty pockets from rural migration to cities; it is also linked to the shortage of (skilled) human resources in rural areas.

The issue with natural resources management, particularly oil is not new in Missan. It is relevant to Missan, and it also has influence on surrounding provinces (Basra, Thi-Qar and on marshlands in general). Not dealing with it this issue would perpetuate environmental degradation and the availability of resources for economic development. Most of NRM is related to the oil industry and use of marshlands for tourism and development of agriculture. In agriculture, NRM is related to proper use of land and irrigation systems. . At the higher level, it is necessary to establish inter-governorate committee to deal with NRM in the area since pollution is a common problem; . At the local levels, support in this regard requires to promote PPPs and to support to SMEs in dealing with natural resources and in managing their waste products, and to step up pollution control (including from the extracting industry).

48 Cf. WB Group (03 Feb 2017), Iraq Systematic Country Diagnostic.

42 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

In this context, economic development of Missan province would mean: . Diversification of the economy – specifically development of the agricultural, industrial (including oil) trade and tourism sectors – so that the province may achieve: development and economic status commensurate with its resources, comprehensive economic development, and socio-economic well- being of citizens in the mid- and long term; . Balanced spatial development – better quality of social, economic and services conditions for people living in remote areas, especially rural areas, ensured through fuller use and sustainable management of natural and human resources, improved service provision, improved physical infrastructure and investment projects;  For both these purposes, it is essential to (1) strengthen the private sector and partnerships between the public and private sectors, and (2) boost investments – which in turn require to:  Ensure a strong financial sector, raise the level of human capital, ensure an environment that supports the socio-economic participation of youth and especially women, improve NRM/WRM, improve infrastructure/service access across areas (particularly inclusive access to transportation, telecommunications and electricity), ensure good governance and improved security.

The competitive advantages of the governorate include: sites for development of tourism, geographic and cultural variety, marshes, agriculture potential, and e-governance.

Especially in the context of economic crisis in the country, the limited resources of the governorate require that larger input from the private sector and foreign investors be activated. While strong economic development would provide the means for social programmes and improved service delivery, (1) developing the private sector, (2) improving the competitiveness of enterprises, and (3) increasing investments in the economy of the province are of vital importance both for sustainable economic growth across sectors and for the planning and implementation of actions that target social and human development.

Constraints . Economy dependent on oil as a main source of wealth . Management framework for economic activities – including weak role of the private sector . Legislative and banking environment . Unbalanced spatial development/weak rural development . Low competitiveness of public and private sector enterprises – linked to low income of workers in both . Lack of raw material supply chain . Lack of electricity – more than 70% of the enterprises are severely affected by electrical issues . Lack of inputs (e.g. fuel, equipment, spare parts, etc.) required by plants and industries for operation . Supply quality issues . Lack of the safety and security conditions to run a business (e.g. laws are not enforced) . Lack of affordable and reliable forms of access to credit/financing . Lack of economic protection (e.g. local production is not protected from imported goods) . Lack of new/updated primary technologies to compete and old or outdated secondary technologies and systems employed (e.g. limited communications lines and exchange opportunities) . Lack of education and training for skilled and unskilled workers . Lack of white collar workers and continued emigration of educated workers in last few decades . Lack of modern administrative techniques to manage plants and market the production . Limited or no market access, outlets and international relations.

Goals . Full and sustainable use of the available resources in the province, developed infrastructure, developed human capital, diversified revenue sources, greater role of the private sector in the economy allow to achieve sustainable development and inclusive growth.

Means to achieve the goals . Attract investments – including foreign investments; . Ensure a strong financial sector in order to support continuous investment across sectors . Boost the role of the private sector and PPPs – including provide adequate conditions for private sector development;

43 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

. Prioritise the industrial (oil-based and non-oil) and agricultural sectors as engine for growth; . Develop the tourism sector; . Leveraging its inclusion on the UNSECO World Heritage List, develop Al Ahwar as a unique edge for Missan, a touristic destination and a land for sustainable economic development (including agriculture); Involve the marshlands in local development strategies; . Complete infrastructure development – particularly with regard to electricity, water and sewerage; . Develop the transportation and telecommunication network – including with private sector participation; specifically, privatise the transportation sector including al-Buteira airport; . Ensure inclusive access to services; . Prioritise environmental protection, NRM/WRM and the recovery of the marshlands; . Increase the level of R&D (research and development) in all sectors – to promote best practices and modern management/production processes, and ultimately improve sustainability, productivity and competitiveness across sectors – which will also drive up jobs creation; . Enhance human skills through education and continuous training; . Develop technical skills and human resources in priority areas; . Ensure power and fuel sources; . Reform local public administration and finance – to align with good governance principles, reduce corruption and improve public service provision; . Advance the e-government plan and develop Information and Media sectors – in order to increase transparency and accountability, and to help reduce administrative and financial corruption; . Promote stability and security – above all, enforce the rule of law.

2. Industry

The industrial sector has a significant impact on economic development. It stimulates other economic sectors such as agriculture, trade, services, labour, and technology transfer thus contributing to increase in GDP. Industry and manufacturing are crucial economic drivers of the non-oil economy in Iraq. Developing the industrial sector has multiple impacts on economic development in the province, as it contributes to: labour absorption; revenue generation; per capita and national income; availability of goods and products; activating the role of and developing other related sectors (agriculture, construction, infrastructure and transport, exports/trade), which additionally fuel socio-economic development in the province.

The crumbling infrastructure and a lack of investment however are hindering industrial development. Many industrial factories have fallen behind global manufacturing standards. Weak utilisation and management of natural resources with regard to supporting the local economy is another hindrance. Finally, Missan is not crossed by the main transportation infrastructure of the country (both rail and highway).

Missan has a substantial opportunity in regard, given its crucial position as one the main potential “commercial door” with Iran. These factors combine to create the potential for a leading industrial power among southern Governorates. Also, the Governorate’s industrial sector could potential leverages on the diverse natural resources (e.g. oil and its derivatives) and the needs of infrastructure and housing re-construction.

Currently, the governorate is one of the country’s most important centres for oil production (oil production from the Halfaya oilfield started in 2012). The province also has a range of factories that are mainly producing construction materials such as gravel, cement and asphalt. Construction (Brick) is the key industrial sector. The other important industrial activities are related to Sugar and Gas industry. The main industrial branches developed in Missan province are agro-industry, chemicals (e.g. phosphates, fertilizers), constructions, dairy products, gas (e.g. LPG production), rubber and plastics, paper, food and beverages.

Outside the extraction of and trade in oil products, on the territory of the province 78 large and medium enterprises function in the industry sector according to 2015 data (COSIT), which means an increase of nearly 10% compared with the previous year. Although large enterprises form around 7% of all enterprises in the sector, their importance is great since they account of a great deal of the employment and the value of the industrial output. From the perspective of the ownership only one of the companies is state-owned, employing some 12% of the workers in large and medium enterprises and paying 25% of the salaries and around 40% of the production and sales. Missan contains fewer medium/large businesses and more micro businesses than the Iraqi average. As would be expected, most medium-sized businesses are in construction and manufacturing (larger concentrations of micro businesses are in services and trade).

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In 2012, the total workforce in the industry sector (excluding small and medium enterprises) of Missan was 6913 people – very limited. The major employment in the main branches is secured in the Amara and Al-Mejar Al- Kabir qadhas. In the industry sector, construction provides a solid portion of the employment with enterprises in 5 of the 8 qadhas. There are no industrial enterprises in the districts of Saed Ahmed Al Rifaee and Al Musharah.

The main industrial sites in the Governorate are the following: . New Missan Refinery – built in 2010, with production capacity of 30 000 bpd and produces light and heavy oil products and kerosene; . General Company for Sugar Industry – in Al-Mejar Al-Kabir qadha on the Amara–Al-Mejar Al-Kabir road, 1350 employees. The factory is currently not in operation due to the lack of spare parts and equipment; . General Company for Paper Industry, also located on the Amara– Al-Mejar Al-Kabir road, which employs about 1330 people. Also this factory is currently not in operation and in strong need of rehabilitation; . Ali Al Hadi Oil factory, which produces soap, detergents and oils, which currently operates at a reduced capacity due to lack of raw materials and whose equipment also need updating and rehabilitation; . Plastic factories complex – ca. 5 km from Amara, ca. 530 employees - currently not in operation.

The issue with the management of natural resources (particularly oil) is not new in Missan. It is relevant to Missan, and it also has influence on surrounding provinces (Basra, Thi-Qar and on marshlands in general). It will be necessary to establish inter-governorate committee to deal with Natural Resources Management (NRM) in the area since pollution is a common problem. Not dealing with it would further deteriorate the quality of environment. Support to local economy is in helping establishment of PPP and support to SMEs in dealing with natural resources and control of extracting industry.

Oil and gas industry Development of the oil and gas sector is responsibility of the central government. The Ministry of Oil manages activity in Missan’s hydrocarbon sector through SOEs. Overall in Iraq, oil and gas extraction and processing capacities are limited vis-a-vis the available resources and insufficient/ineffective to meet national demand and support extensive exports.49 The oil and gas sector is strongly affected by external crises and internal insecurity/war, resulting in shortages in all energy fronts in country, especially since 2014. The oil sector is central to Missan’s economy and the governorate is positioned to be among Iraq’s most important centres for oil extraction. Of Iraq’s more than 4.4 million recoverable bpd, 85% are produced by the giant oil fields of southern Iraq – this includes the Halfaya petroleum cluster in Missan province. . Missan Oil Company (MOC) is responsible for producing fields in Missan: mainly, Abu Ghirab, Buzurgan and Fakka (Fauqi) oil fields, which stretch along the border of Al-Amara Qadha with Iran; and Halfaya in Al- Kahla’a Qadha. . Majnoon oil field - located in Missan but mainly in Basra province – is one of the largest in the world; MOC is a partner in its exploitation together with Iraq’s Southern Oil Company. . In Missan, there are also five discovered but unproducing fields: Huweiza, al-Rafi’e, East Rafidan, Dujeila and Kumait fields (see Chapter I.2, Figure 3). . The total oil reserves in the province are estimated at 47.7 billion barrels. The Halfaya field alone contains more than 4.5 billion barrels of oil reserve. In total, five of all 11 oil fields presents are being extracted and there are currently 97 operational wells. The further development of the oil extraction industry in Missan is the key driver to the economic development of the region. Increasing oil production in southern Iraq has been slow; the southern oil fields require substantial increases in natural gas and/or desalinated water injection to maintain the reservoir pressure. Also, conditions of the general infrastructure are poor, and the oil sector infrastructure is aging. Recently, new tie-in pipelines and pipelines to the loading terminals of the Al-Faw Peninsula were built for some of the fields in the south, including Halfaya.50 Also, the New Missan Refinery was built in 2010; this has production capacity of 30 000 bpd (up from 7000 b/d in 2010) and it produces light and heavy oil products and kerosene. Still, the capacity of the refinery is small vis-a-vis the available resources.

49 This is recognised by the Ministry of Oil. E.g. the Ministry’s development plan for the oil and gas sector for 2003–2014 has a focus to: improve management systems; rehabilitate existing facilities; improve and increase processing capacity; improve product specifications; reduce natural gas flaring and increase the utilization of natural gas (e.g. for power/petrochemicals/fertilizers production); reduce heavy petroleum products (fuel oil) from refineries, and replace the dependence on crude oil consumption for power generation; dedicate the oil mainly for export and refineries. IEEJ (June 2010), “Iraqi Ministry of Oil Fossil Fuel Resources (Latest Estimates)” (presentation): http://eneken.ieej.or.jp/data/3196.pdf.

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Constraints . Lack of raw material supply chain . Lack of agri-business/enterprises that utilise agricultural products . Lack of skilled staff and poor qualification of technical staff in the industrial sector . Weak private sector and investment . Outdated facilities and infrastructure . Insufficient transport infrastructure . Weak natural resource management to support industry development and sustainable resource use.

Goals . A competitive and diversified industry, which is not reliant only on oil production.

Means to achieve the goals . Increase the industrial sector’s contribution to the GDP and link it to the agricultural sector (i.e. stimulate enterprises that use agro products); . Provide the province with industrial products (instead of exporting them); . Develop industries which use raw materials available in the province; . Give priority to the industrial sector in the provincial economic strategy framework; . Promote the establishment of PPPs – including to support NRM; . Support to SMEs in dealing with natural resources and in managing their waste products; . Step up pollution control; . Create job opportunities by establishing factories that use papyrus.

3. Agriculture

The agricultural sector stands to play an important role in the socio-economic development of the governorate. The GDP contribution of the agriculture sector is only3%, but labour absorption is highest in agriculture (18% in 2016).

With regard to assets, the area suitable for agriculture is nearly half the area of the province. Due to the location of the province within the sedimentary plain in southern Iraq, which is characterised by soil fertility and the fact that the land is levelled and provides different sources of water due to existence of the Tigris River and its branches; and due to existence of unused underground water and rain water, which starts from October to April of each year, and the diversity of the climate, different types of crops can be cultivated. The Marshlands played a major role in agriculture as it covered two-thirds of the Province area, encouraging agriculture, fishing and fish culture.

Irrigation is based essentially on water pumped from the Tigris River (95%) and dependence on rainfalls is minimal. Water wells are concentrated in the north-east and southeast, towards the Iranian border, where abundant and generally good quality ground water may be found. Being primarily a pastoral area, it is used for watering stock and other agricultural requirements where surface water is not available. At least 38 wells were drilled in the 1970s in Jalat, Khazinah, Qarah Tappah, Yarwa, Tayeb, Abu Gharb, Zoubidate and Alfakka, but the programme of resource development was stopped by the Iraq-Iran War.

However, despite the availability of all natural factors for sufficient agricultural production, economic returns from agricultural production do not reflect the available resources or effectively contribute to the GDP of the province, and agricultural production does not meet the provincial need for agricultural crops.

The sector has deteriorated due to the war between Iran and Iraq and loss of investment and infrastructure. Its infrastructure has not been developed and the state has not provided the sector in the Province with basic services. Also, after the 1991 drying campaign, the marshlands became one-quarter of their original area, affecting plant agriculture, animal raising and fishing in the province (detailed in Chapter I.2). It should be noted that there is a shortage in the in-kind assistance for farmers, which leads to their migration to the city to get their living.

50 Bacci, A. (Oct 2017), “Basra Governorate’s Petroleum Cluster (Part A)”: https://www.cwcbasraoilgas.com/basra-governorates-petroleum- cluster-part-a.

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Marshes areas stand at a third of their previous area due to the drying operations and wrong water policies. Most of marshes areas have been converted to agricultural land. Marshes inhabitants are now growing wheat and barley after they used to grow rice. Previously, inhabitants used to hunting, buffalo breeding, fishing. After drying of marshes and topographical changes, they started to breed cows and sheep and grow wheat and barley. Marshes inhabitants are the poorest among south Iraq citizens. The socio-economic development in the area of the marshes and the development of the agriculture sector in Missan as a whole depend on NRM and WRM efforts to restore the marshes.

Plant agriculture

Plant agriculture is based on the cultivation of wheat, barley, vegetables and some fruits for daily consumption. Palm orchards are concentrated near Tigris river banks. Rice cultivation was a significant part of plant production until the mid-1980s – as part of livelihoods in marsh areas. The yields of the main agricultural crops are significantly smaller than the country’s averages for the period 2014-2015. In 2016 the yields in Missan province were much bigger than in the previous years (comparative data with the national indicators is lacking).

Missan has a total area of 1 651 912 donums. The area of the arable land in Missan is 257 km2, i.e. only 39% of the total area of Missan is suitable for agriculture. . Only 7% of the total area and only 18% of arable land is actually cultivated (see Figure 19); . The portions of arable out of the total usable land vary widely in the different qadhas of the province. In varies from 6.3% in Al–Mashrah to 66.1% in Al-Azeez. . At the same time the portion of usable land is between 14.3% in Al-Azeez and 69.0% in Al-Mejar Al-Kabir Qadha Centre.

The low share of cultivated land is linked above all to the fact that Missan province suffers from poor irrigation management and high salinity of soil. Missan, as many other governorates, suffers from bad management of the irrigation system, absence of soil drainage and high level of soil salinity.

Loss of arable land and low productivity are linked to poor agricultural practices have long encouraged water- logging and soil salinisation (see Chapter I.2 Soils for detailed analysis of soil degradation factors). Recent damage to irrigation infrastructure by military action has exacerbated the situation and 74% of all irrigated land now suffers elevated salinity.

Figure 19 Distribution of land in 2016 (%)

Al-Majar Al-Kabeer District centre Al-Adl % of cultivated land Al-Kahlaa District centre % of arable land Ali Al-Sharqi Ali Al-Gharbi District centre Al-Mashrah Al-Salam Sayyed Ahmed Al-Rifaee Total Al-Maymona District centre Amarah District centre Kumait Qal'at Salih District centre Al-Khair sub-district Bani Hashim Al-Azeez

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

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Table 10 Distribution of land in 2016 (area and %) Qadha Nahia Total area (donum51) Arable land Cultivated land donum % of all land donum % of all land Ali Al-Gharbi Ali Al-Gharbi QC 867 506 450 000 52 75 805 17 Ali Al-Sharqi 571 222 302 198 53 85 578 28 Amara Amara QC 1 045 789 400 000 38 40 641 10 Kumait 761 602 290 000 38 100 153 34 Al-Maimouna Al-Maimouna QC 232 473 90 000 39 57 664 64 Sayyed Ahmed Al-Rifaee 304 717 125 000 41 77 515 62 Al-Salam 295 410 141 000 48 53 561 38 Al-Mejar Al-Kabir Al-Mejar Al-Kabir QC 105 828 73 062 69 19 319 26 Al-Khair 435 900 75 150 17 10 906 14 Al-Adl 32 243 22 000 68 9 463 43 Qalat Saleh Qalat Saleh QC 133 867 49 152 37 8 888 18 Al-Azeez 418 886 60 000 14 39 655 66 Al-Kahla’a Al-Kahlaa QC 95 271 60 000 63 13 593 22 Bani Hashim 420 653 65 000 15 9 488 14 Al-Mashrah 707 433 344 711 49 21 796 6 Total 6 428 800 (100%) 254 273 39 624 115 24

Table 11 Distribution of crop (area and production)52 Crop 2014 2015 2016 Wheat Area (donum) 140 062 137 218 518 623 Yield (tonnes) 69 467 44 529 349 582 Productivity (kg/donum) 496 324.5 674.1 Barley Total area (donum) 11 556 14 452 101 864 Yield (tonnes) 2 514 181 40 123 Productivity (kg/donum) 217.4 12.5 393.89 Dates Yield (tonnes) 13 482 Productivity (kg/palm tree) 50

Animal raising

Livestock is one of the most important pillars in the structure of resources and natural resources of the province. The total livestock number is about one million and half animal including large numbers of sheep, cows, buffalo, goats and camels scattered in different areas of the province. In addition, there is large fish wealth in rivers and lowland (marshes), particularly in the south and south-west regions.

Fishing

Fishing is a traditional economic area; its development depends on the restoration of the marshes. A major problem is the non-enforcement of fishing laws and electrofishing have led to environmental problems including destruction of ecological variety such as the bacteria that live on sugar cane that directly contributes to improving water quality. Some of best types of fish have ceased to appear in marshes due to lack of water in marshes and increase of water salinity.

Agricultural products

Demand for more diversified products is rising. Some customers can afford to pay high prices for quality processed foods and there seem to be a healthy pride in consuming locally grown products. Most food commodities are by now imported from abroad. Dairy products, fresh vegetables and canned food are flowing in from Syria, Iran, Jordan and Kuwait. These goods are reasonably priced for international standards, although in the past two years food commodities cost has skyrocketed for the local consumer and not all can afford them; quality of imported processed food is low and from mass industrial production but appealing to the buyers as “good and safe”. Weak protection policies for imported goods, often escaping custom duties, are discouraging farmers who cannot match import goods prices and make a reasonable profit. If better policies and well- calibrated production lines (both in raw and processed goods) are set in place there would be a great variety of businesses related to agriculture that could develop, particularly if high quality standards are pursued.

Agro-industry is, by now, not developed and represents the main constraint to add value to the existing agriculture production.

51 1 donum = 2500 m2. 52 Data: Directorate of Agriculture in Missan – Follow-up and Planning; Baseline Study; COSIT.

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NRM/WRM

In agriculture NRM is related directly to proper use of land and irrigation systems. Not dealing with this problem would further deteriorate the quality of environment and lead to further loss of resources. However, soil degradation and water quality degradation are also linked to pollution from cities, industry and agriculture. In turn it also affects other sectors of the economy – e.g. increased TDS in waters flowing into the marshes prevent their successful regeneration and limit the livelihoods opportunities for people in these areas – while effluents from agriculture are a significant source of TDS.

Constraints . Lack of agro-industry . Loss of arable land . Deterioration of soil and water resources . Buffalo milk not properly invested in local industries . Non-enforcement of fishing laws . Low service provision and development level in marsh areas – people there live in primitive conditions, they lack of potable water, lack of electricity, lack sufficient education service, lack medical staff and equipment in available health centres, lack of paved roads, etc. . Insufficient irrigation network, outdated irrigation methods . Lack of awareness among citizens regarding resource/environment protection and sustainable use of resources . Partial understanding at the national level of the important of the marshes for with regard to the environment and the economic future of southern Iraq . Low productivity and competitiveness – need for knowledge-based agriculture . Low storage capacity . Weak investment environment . Poor irrigation network, low irrigation capacity . Low private sector involvement . Insufficient human resources. . Urbanisation.

Goals . Arable lands reclaimed and water use for irrigation rationalised according to the effective water requirements for a larger agricultural areas while ensuring higher production and crop yield/donum (as per Missan Provincial Development Plan 2011); . Missan’s water resources and peasant tradition leveraged to boost agriculture; . The Governorate and private entrepreneurs play a key role in boosting food commodities production and revitalizing and improving the rural livelihood.

Means to achieve the goals

. Agriculture altogether  Step up NRM and WRM to promote the proper use of land and irrigation systems – including through increased agricultural research and development  Ensure availability of water in the marshlands and near the rivers banks;  Extend irrigation projects – including complete planned projects;  Ensure availability of funding due to facilities given by the CBI, Central Bank of Iraq  Leverage Central Bank Agriculture Financing tools;  Create agricultural and industrial integration in the province  Increase province food stuff industries  Maintain and develop forests/marshlands  Take care of strategic staple crops  Use best means to combat crop pests and animal diseases  Encourage use of arable lands . Agriculture in the marshlands  Implement programme to develop fish and buffalo farming;  Transform the lower part of Al Ahwar areas for animal framings;

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 Promote buffalo meat demand in Iraq;  Issue legislation pertaining to the marshes;  Increase infrastructure access (water, electricity, communication, etc.);  Promote rice cultivation in marsh areas; . Plant production  Integrate the principles of agribusiness in plant production in the province  Increase the contribution of plant production to the food industry  Maintain and develop forests  Take care of the famous provincial strategic crops  Apply the most developed methods to eliminate agricultural pests and animal diseases  Support the agricultural sector’s research and development  Encourage use of arable lands  Increase the productivity per km2, as well as maintain current levels of productivity  Rehabilitate the orchards according to modern agricultural methods; . Animal production  Develop and improve animal production to meet international standards to serve the local consumers  Take care of fish wealth and increase production  Take care of breeding bees  Improve available kinds of livestock . Veterinary services  Ensure healthy animals with no epidemic diseases  Stop the transfer of disease from animals to humans  Stop or limit communicative diseases  Prevent epidemics  Support the veterinary doctors and hospitals.

4. Trade

The trade sector is key to providing basic services and requirements (production and consumption goods) for citizens, within the framework of public, mixed and private entities. External trade includes imports and exports; internal trade includes economic integration at the country level. Thus, the development of the trade sector in Missan is important for long-term economic growth of the province, specifically to support industry development and rural development in the province.

Constraints . Lack of the safety and security conditions – which limits both trade and investment . Insufficient transport and communications infrastructure . Insufficient storage facilities . Over-reliance on state support and use of outdated management methods . Poor quality control, especially on imported goods, to support local production.

Goals . A developed trade sector with increased role and efficiency helps diversify household income opportunities in the province, contributes to poverty reduction and socio-economic inclusion levels; supports the capacity of Missan to meet its needs trough own production; and helps strengthen the private sector and the competitiveness of its products.

Means to achieve the goals . Promote the sector’s economic efficiency and increase its contribution to the GDP; . Promote the commercial status of the province; . Promote the internal trading efficiency; . Get the maximum benefit from the province’s strategic location in order to be a re-export centre; . Support the role of the private sector and promote its efficiency ; . Develop a freight logistic hub centre for the potential multimodal corridor North-South.

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5. Tourism

Tourism in Missan stands to be a major growth sector. Specifically, ca. 305 archaeological sites of different periods have been identified in Missan, with relevance for the development of archaeological and religious tourism; while the presence of the marshes is a significant asset for development of nature and recreational tourism. Al-Sheeb/Chazabeh border point is key for regional pilgrimage (to Kerbala, Najaf, etc.). In the first 3 weeks of Safar 2016 alone, more than 700 000 Iranian and non-Iranian pilgrims choose this border for their travel to Iraq and back. Currently, the potential of these assets is not fully realised.

A more developed tourism sector in Missan would play an important role in diversifying the economy of the province, both in cities and in rural areas – with direct benefits for the construction sector (hotels, infrastructure enhancements, etc.), as well as, above all, for jobs generation, especially in the private sector (e.g. tour guides, operators, travel agencies, hotel managers, etc.). The potential for increased private sector engagement in tourism is significant.53 Tourism infrastructure

Tourism is constrained by lack of roads or sometimes lack of access to religious sites. Also, there are neither signs refer to these religious places nor concise guide for the tourist and archaeological sites of the Province. Furthermore, the Tourism Enterprise for Missan Governorate has only ten employees. There are eleven restaurants in the province, most of them in Amara and Ali-Gharbi and two in Kumait.

Table 12 Tourism indicators for Missan province, 2013 (COSIT) Hotels and tourist Total Urban Staff Guests Overnight Wages and Total expenses* Total revenue* complexes (n) (%) (n) (n) stays (n) benefits* 5 100 45 15 539 17 591 179 152 622 Restaurants, cafes, Total (n) Urban (%) Investments total* Investor money value on average* casinos 404 98 11.946 29.569 Money transfer/ Number Money transferred/exchanged* Value from sale/purchase of foreign currencies* exchange facilities 8 4.1 0.835 *IQD million In 2011, the relevant Ministries prepared a field project for tourism and a plan for the development of tourism in Iraq for 2025—2035, as follows (Table 13). In the period 2012-2015 three investment projects in the tourism sector were implemented, which include the construction of a hotel (Kormik Hotel) and one amusement park (Al-Mejar Al-Kabir amusement park).

Table 13 Plan for the tourism development for 2015–203554 Years Location Project Phase I Al-Amara city Establish a first class tourist hotel on the western side of the city of Amara, overlooking 2015—2019 the river near the Al-Jamhoori bridge. Al-Amara city Establish a new fun fair city in Amara city centre (implemented) Phase II Al-Huweiza Establish a tourist complex on the edge of Al-Huweiza Marshland and close to the Qalat 2020—2024 marshland Saleh area, including a restaurant and a café. Al-Amara city Establish a first class hotel in the city of Amara and the area surrounding the river near Al- Jamhoori Bridge / the current location of Missan Provincial Council. Phase III Al-Amara city Change the trade syndicates building to an integrated tourist complex. It includes a 2025—2029 restaurant and multi-purpose rooms (meeting rooms, event halls) Al-Amara city Establish a tourist complex on the left side of Al-Amara dam and construct a first-class tourist hotel on the right side. Al-Amara city Establish a second class restaurant or tourist hotel, taking into account the spatial deviation in the distribution of these activities around the city. Phase IV Al-Batera area Establish a second class hotel near the site of Batera airport, and there is a proposal to 2030—2032 turn it into a civil airport. Al-Sheeb border area Establish a restaurant, a hotel and a motel Phase V Different areas in Al- Establish a tourist restaurant under the supervision of the General Authority for Tourism 2033—2035 Amara city in the religious shrines in the province, which consist of the shrines of the Prophet Ezra, Ali Al-Sharqi and Ali Al-Gharbi. Al-Amara city Reconstruct and develop the traditional façades in Baghdad Street in the city of Amara.

53 Religious tourism makes ca. 90% of the sector, by 2011 data: AKnews (18 Oct 2011), “Tourism Minister Plans to Boost Eco-Tourism.” 54, Office of Advisory Planning and Baghdad University (2011), Plan for Tourism Development: Survey Project for Tourism, Historical and Heritage Locations In Iraq.

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Nature/marshlands tourism

In the past year the legendary marshes of Hawizeh near the Iranian border, part of a network of waterways, have come back to life again and started attracting tourists. The marshes in southern Iraq, thought to be the biblical Garden of Eden, were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2016. They have long been famous for their natural diversity, wildlife, thousands of migratory birds (such as the sacred ibis) stopping here in their trips between Siberia and Africa, food and distinctive local culture.

Most of the visitors are Iraqis but there are also expats, and an occasional foreigner in the boats touring the wetlands. The area still lacks developed tourist infrastructure in terms of roads, restaurants and hotels, even better boats, as well as appropriate services. Another reason for the isolated foreign tourists is that most European embassies discourage their nationals from entering these areas. A full-service tourist centre is under construction in the Missan marshlands area.

Religious places belonging to the Sumerian and Akkadian era were found in the marshlands and the Government is working to preserve them, so it is necessary to pay attention to tourism development by exploiting its economic and social components, which will constitute an urban and cultural progress as well as tourist complexes and urban centres that may contribute to social and cultural development, activate the economic and trade movement in the region and preserve the environment from pollution.

Culture/city tourism

MoC has a museum in Amara city. Although the International Council of museums does not list any museums in Missan Governorate, a renovation of the museum is under way like in the other provinces. A Youth Poetry Festival is held regularly under the auspices of the local governor. The Culture and Arts Palace project in Amara is considered one of the biggest infrastructure projects in the province.

Iraqi music has its historic roots in ancient traditions but has continued to evolve through the ages. From the creation of the oldest guitar in the world and the invention of the lute, to adding a fifth string to the rhythms and the various Iraqi maqams, Iraqi music is established as an important part of the country's and the local culture.

Heritage and archaeological tourism

A report by the General Authority for Antiquities and Heritage (Directorate Table 14 Uncovered heritage of Excavation and Investigation) of June 2007 identifies ca. 450 heritage sites sites in Missan55 in Missan, only 60 of which have been uncovered (see Table 14). Qadha Sites (n) Amara 14 The most important archaeological sites are as follows. Kumait 9 . Tal Abu Sheija. Excavation began in 2007 after the site was severely Al-Mejar Al-Kabir 1 Sayyed Ahmed Al-Rifaee 16 damaged by the Tayeb River as it is located on the edge of the river. Al-Salam 8 In order to discover the site well, work has been done in several areas Al-Kahlaa 1 of the site, as it is an important location which is located about 66 km Al-Mashrah 11 from the archaeological city of (Sousse) in the west of Iran. The existence of the Tayeb River was the reason for the existence of a number of settlements in the region. These settlements were inhabited by many people as the villages spread along the river, which was a source of livelihood for the population. The water and fish provide them with food permanently and a place for breeding animals. Wild animals such as deer and birds are available in very large numbers. As a result of the excavation works in the site, a number of important buildings were found on the site. The tombs were found, the temple of the city or a palace near the river was discovered based on the places occupied by these institutions in the ancient Iraqi cities. Some walls were found and they were built of bricks, indicating that they represent patterns from ancient time. It was found a fence, a bench made of square bricks, a number of furnaces, other tombs and other service facilities, as well as a very large number of pieces of pottery. It was also found a large building made of adobe from outside and adobe and clay from inside; its walls were more than a meter wide and it has corridors. The walls of a little complicated room were found. A door frame with cuneiform writing was found and it was the door of the city's temple. The building varies from room to room, as their foundations are different. A water tank covered with plaster that is believed to be used for disinfection and incense burner were found. All these facilities belong to the main temple in the city. Antiques, including broken statues and head of a

55 General Authority for Antiquities and Heritage

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malformed marble statue, were found in the site. And despite their few numbers, they were very important to determine the date of this site. . Tall Al-Kuban. The site is located ca. 4 km west of Amara on the road of Al-Batera. In this site, some building dating back to the Islamic times late were found. It was discovered several foundations of buildings, a well, pieces of pottery, and walls of the buildings made of bricks where clay was used as a building material. The buildings excavated on the site consisted of a group of medium-sized and rectangular rooms whose walls were built with bricks and in which antiques such as artifacts of women's eyeliners and plates were found. . Tal Al-Aker. It is located in Al-Suhain area of Al-Khair sub-district (Al-Mejar Al-Kabir Qadha). It was inhabited by the tribes of Shajanbeh and Amashan before the drying of the marshlands, which migrated forcibly after the drying. It is one of the archaeological sites, which were human settlements inhabited by many people. Their houses were made of cane surrounded by very large areas. It was found remaining antiques such as a grain grinding machine, school floors, a kindergarten and a police station built in the 1960s. However, they became ruins due to the migration of the population and lack of financing. The population depended on fishing, hunting wild birds and livestock, and rice cultivation before the marshlands dried up and their inhabitants migrated to cities. Some believe that the name of Tal Al-Aker means the open water among reeds, while others claimed that it related to the first inhabited person in the area. In this context, the importance of the site lies in identifying the civilization of the settlements which flourished in Al-Suhain marshland in the thirteenth century. The site has antiques dated to the Sassanid period. The site of the Aker has passed through several eras that witnessed the rising up and the collapse and destruction of several civilizations and empires, the last of which was the Ottoman Empire. The site of Al Aker was flooded and a layer of silt covered its surface. Therefore, the inhabitants of the area turned into fishermen and livestock breeders after abandoning their ancient cities and setting up houses of reed and papyrus, on the archeological sites, surrounded by water.

Religious tourism

The shrines of the Missan province are the most famous of Southern Iraq and, for the Shi’a people, the most important of the entire Iraq. However, these shrines did not develop at a level that guarantees economic achievement for the residents of the region. Some shrines are a very poor state of conservation of the main historical records or characteristics. It is highly recommended for the two Ministries to work together in the future, otherwise it will result in an enormous damage for the Iraqi Heritage.

Table 15 Main religious site in Missan Shrine Details Ahmed Al-Rifaee Shrine It is a popular tourist destination especially on Thursday evenings of every week. Sayyed Ahmed shrine It is located east of the Shlohia River in Al-Raash area of Al-Maymona district. It is a small building visited by people on religious occasions. Ahmed Al-Majid (Abu- The shrine is located on the bank of the Tigris River in the west and it is about 20 km north of Al- Sadra) shrine Majar district, which is visited by people on religious occasions, especially at the Spring Festival. Sayyed Dharb shrine The shrine was built on the place where his body was cleansed in the orchard of his family in the south of Al-Salam sub-district on the eastern side of the Al-Batera River. Sayyed Sroot shrine The shrine is attributed to Imam Musa Bin Jaafar. The shrine is located in Wadiyah to the south of Al-Mejar Al-Kabir district. Obaidullah Bin Ali shrine It is located south of Qal'at Salih district, on the eastern side of the Tigris River, 10 km away. It is one of the oldest shrines in Missan and dates back to the first century AH. Ezra shrine This shrine is located in the area of Ezra, south of Qal'at Salih district and on the west bank of the Tigris River. This shrine is believed to be for the prophet Ezra, the writer of Torah, who sought refuge in Missan after the Babylonian captivity of the Jew. Sayyed Ali Al-Zaki shrine The shrine is attributed to Imam Hussein Bin Ali. It is located on the west side of the Al-Kahlaa River. Sayyed Mohammed shrine The shrine is located in the middle of Al-Batera road between Amarah and Al-Fajr sub-district (on (known as Abu Arabanah) the left side). Ali Al-Sharqi shrine The shrine of Ali Bin Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bin Dawood Al-Ameer is attributed to Al Hasan Bin Ali Bin Abi Talib. It is located on the eastern side of the Tigris River, 20 km from the centre of Kumait and 63 km from Amarah. Ali Al-Gharbi shrine The shrine of Abu Al-Hasan Ali Al-Gharbi (known as Ali Al-Gharbi Bin Yahya called Anbar) is attributed to the martyr Zaid Bin Imam Ali Bin Imam Hussein Bin Imam Ali Bin Abi Talib. Sayyed Ali shrine It is located west of Al-Mejar Al-Kabir city on a road leading to Abi Al-'Ala village west of the Al-Mejar Al-Kabir River.

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Sayyed Ali Abu Shujaa Sayyed Ali Abu Shujaa is the grandfather of Aal-Yaser. The shrine is located in Abu Bshoot area, Al- shrine Mahasna village near Kumait city, 15 km to the south. Mohammed Bin Hussein The shrine of Mohammad Ibn Al-Hasan Ibn Mohammad Al-Jawad Ibn Abdullah Al-'Ashtar Al-Kabli shrine Ibn Mahdh Bin Al-Hasan Al-Muthanna Ibn Al-Hasan Ibn Ali Ibn Abi Talib. is located on the eastern side of the Tigris River in the northern suburb of Amarah. Sayyed Mnaihil shrine The shrine of Sayyed Menihil Bin Sayyed Ali Bin Said Ajil is attributed to Hassan Bin Jaafar Al-Khawari son of Imam Musa Bin Jaafar. It is located at a distance of 5 km south of Amarah city centre at the entrance of Maymona district. Sayyed Noor shrine The shrine of Noor Bin Sayyed Isma'il Ibn Al-Sayyed Mohammed Al-Mubarkah is attributed to Sayyed Ibrahim Al-Mujab Ibn Al-Sayyed Mohammed Al-Abed and Imam Musa Ibn Ja`far. It is located in the north of Al- Tayeb, east of Amarah city centre , 20 km away. Sayyed Yousef Al-Bkhaati The shrine of Sayyed Yousef Bin Al-Sayed Shaya is attributed to Imam Musa Al-Kadhim. It is located shrine on the north east side of Amara city centre, 70 km away from the intersection which leads to the Ain Al-Maa in Al-Tayeb.

Potential for development . Potential tourist itineraries can be developed including route and resorts for religious sites. . In these routes it could develop areas for open-air markets, little restaurants, coffee shop to alleviate the tour of religious sites. . The Suq al Maqmudiyeh in Amara shows wonderful carved wooden balconies (in Arabic, shanashil) which represent a typical artistic characteristic of Iraq. . The tourists visiting Amarah are curios of typical features, especially typical characteristics of buildings. As far as it has been possible to ascertain, only 25 such shanashil are still existent in Amara, and it is highly recommended to maintain and restore these important artistic feature of the capital city. . Amara has also a Mar Yusuf al Batool (Saint Josef of the Virgin). The walls are 15 m high and there is also a bell tower preserved in its original construction; some original glasses on the windows are still visible and the wooden door is still in place, although mostly damaged. . The Jewish Schola. The only remain of their presence today is represented by the walls of an ancient Schola, almost entirely destroyed. The representative of the local SBAH has shown a certain interest on its presence in the city. The Jewish Schola represents one important part of the history of Amara. . The four archaeological sites, with info-points to illustrate the characteristics of the archaeological sites, will be a new itinerary especially for foreign tourists. . Amarah, its souks and its shanashil, are an important feature to be preserved. . The church of Mar Yusuf al Batool is a testimony of some families Assyrians (Christians of Syriac rite), almost 100 people in all, which still live in Amara.

The management and development of tourism and antiquities in Missan relies on the Missan Antiquities Department. The Department is tasked to: . Monitor the antiquities and heritage sites across the Governorate; . Perform maintenance of heritage sites as needed and provide required resources; . Reduce squatting that affects antiquity sites; . Safeguard excavation sites; . Make necessary statements for Governorate’s Directorates before projects implementation or for people through renting lands or constructing of them . Carry out relevant antiquity and heritage surveys.

Constraints in developing the tourism sector

 Historical/archaeological/religious tourism:  Partial excavation  Poor maintenance of sites, neglect  Insufficient protection from looting/vandalising  Encroaching urban sprawl/agriculture, squatting;  Nature/cultural tourism in the marshes:  Predominant focus on religious tourism  Poor infrastructure and services in marsh areas  Partial recovery of the marshland areas and ecosystems  Lack of understanding of importance of preserving marshlands  Lack of human capital in the governorate to maintains marshlands;

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 All sub-sectors:  Instability and insecurity  Lack of qualified staff  Weak road infrastructure; lack of airport  Poor tourism infrastructure and tourist/recreational services  Insufficient funding – related to reliance on state funding  Limited involvement of the private sector  Limited investment – linked to cumbersome/unclear investment regulations, and low information and little/ineffective promotion regarding investment opportunities in the sector  No promotion effort  Low awareness regarding the opportunities in and value of tourism among citizens of the governorate  Lack of organisational structure necessary for promotion of the tourism sector in the governorate  Weak tourism services in the governorate.

Goals . A developed tourism sector in Missan capitalises fully on the wealth of cultural, historical and nature assets of the governorate, while it contributes to a diversified and resilient economic growth, jobs generation and private sector development; . Resilient and sustainable environment supports the development of tourism.

Means to achieve the goals . Increase the sector’s contribution to GDP . Encourage the private sector’s role in the sector and create new jobs . Increase protection of the marshlands and create conducive environment for tourism purposes . Provide more protection of all antiquities and shrines in the province . Promote Missan to the level of tourist destination . Develop qualified workforce for the tourism industry . Raise public awareness regarding tourism as economic and social component of society . Develop tourism infrastructure.

6. Investment

Investment is a driving force for development, driving up competitiveness, trade, productivity and economic diversification. Promoting investment opportunities is bound with creating an active business environment in the governorate, improving the investment climate, introducing benefits, incentives and guarantees, and ensuring the appropriate facilities and human resources. Successful investments generate multiple benefits – for the beneficiary, investors, society and the country development priorities.

The Missan Investment Commission – established under Investment Law 13 of 2006 amended – is the only official body concerned with the management of the portfolio of investments in the Governorate and the implementation of Investment Law 13. The Commission is responsible for investment planning in line with the comparative advantages of the Governorate, investment promotion and awarding investment licenses – in order to accelerate the economic and social development process in the province, mobilise technical and scientific expertise, develop the human resources and create employment opportunities. Attracting capital to implement plans that support economic and social development, in turn, contributes to raising the standard of citizens in the governorate.

As of end-2017, the available investment opportunities in Missan province are as follows.56

56 National Investment Commission: http://investpromo.gov.iq/province/maysan-province.

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Table 16 Investment opportunities in Missan offered by the National Investment Commission, Dec 2017 Sector N Project Details Allocated land Housing & 1 Horizontal Housing Complex Centre of Al-Mejar Al-Kabir town 79 donum Infrastructure 2 Horizontal Housing Complex Maimouna Town 79 donum (10) 3 Horizontal Housing Complex Maimouna Town/ Adil District 32 donum 4 Horizontal Housing Complex Qalat Saleh Town 52 donum 5 Horizontal Housing Complex Maimouna constituency/ Salam District 38 donum 6 Horizontal Housing Complex Uzair District 16 donum 7 Horizontal Housing Complex Ali Al- Shaqi Town 38 donum 8 Horizontal Housing Complex Kahla Town 45 donum 9 Housing Complex (announced by MoCH) Centre of Mara City – 10 Housing Complex for Officials (announced by MoT) Al-Ufiyah District-10/1368/Meem.5 9 donum Transportatio 11 Missan Airport Project New project under MoF; Al-Bitterah n (1) Military Airport Electricity (1) 12 Al Amara Station Project (1500 MW) Al Amara Industry & 13 Missan Plastic Factory Capacity 5840 t/y; est. cost USD 38 M; – Minerals (4) rehabilitation & development 14 Muotasim Factory (Ali-Al-Hadi) (under State Company Capacity 16 900 t/y; est. cost USD 24 M; – for Vegetable Oils) rehabilitation & development 15 Missan Sugar Factory (under State Company for Sugar Capacity 100 000 t/y; rehabilitation & – Manufacture) development 16 Missan Paper Factory (under State Company for Paper Capacity 57 000 t/y; est. cost USD 35 M; – Manufacture) rehabilitation & development Oil and Gas 17 Missan Refinery (capacity 150 000 bpd) Near Bazirkan Field; new project; est. cost (1) USD 5755 M Tourism (2) 18 Amusement Park and Entertainment City Centre of province 30 donum 19 Entertainment City Plot 45/46/Al-Askaari Quarter 55 donum Services/ 20 Commercial complex Plot no.4/1635/Al-Majidiyah District 1683 m2 Trade (3) 21 Commercial complex – 21 Ulk 22 Commercial complex Plot no.126/171/Tigris River 2 Ulk Health (10) 23 General hospital (capacity 100+ beds) New construction 24 Specialised centre for heart and blood vessels surgery New construction 25 Specialised centre for gynaecology New construction 26 Specialised centre for infertility and IVP (tube baby) New construction 27 Specialised hospital for ophthalmology surgery New construction 28 Specialised centre for cancer treatment New construction 29 Specialised centre for laparoscopic and laser surgery New construction 30 Specialised centre for plastic surgery New construction 31 Complete Medical City New construction 32 Plant for hydrogen peroxide (pure O2) New construction Education, Youth and Sport, Agriculture, Communications – none

Constraints . Weakness of the local investment agency – evidenced by the difficult/unclear procedures for granting investment licenses and the weak marketing of investment opportunities; . Existing problems with land allocation for investment projects – complex procedures at government departments, tribal problems and restrictions related to potential oil fields; . Weak qualification of staff employed in the investment sector – regarding e.g. preparation of maps for investment projects, preparation of feasibility studies, use of effective marketing methods or promotion process, etc.; . Long administrative routines in licensing; . Administrative and financial corruption limit the will to invest and stifle business development; . Weak follow-up process for the granted investment licences; . Incomplete decentralisation process, with not yet clear responsibilities and powers – which impedes coordinated development of investment opportunities.

Goals . Attract investments and boost the development and role of the private sector.

Means to achieve the goals . Complete the preparatory work to offer land owned by Missan Municipality to private investments; . Build an investment map and an ad-hoc database listing opportunities and relevant economic and business indicators;

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. Launch Missan Airport as an investment anchor; . Advance the industrial city; . List all lands categorised for investment or commerce and owned by the private sector; . Implement one-stop-shop – including integrate this one-stop-shop concept at the Missan Investment Directorate. The Directorate should act as trusted agent for investors and support clients in finalising all required administrative procedures – including obtaining permits and licenses from the different Governorate and Ministerial departments; . Make sure that investment licences are ready to use (free from any kind of liability); . Conduct a communication campaign to promote Missan as a touristic destination and land of business opportunities; . Participate in international and regional investment exhibitions and forums and present priority (one or two) opportunities. . Improve security, infrastructure and service delivery in the province.

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IV. PUBLIC SERVICE DELIVERY

1. Transport network

The transport sector is vital: it impacts all aspects of social life and economic activity in the province – particularly in view of Missan’s population clustering patterns and its connecting position between Iran and central Iraq and Basra port and eastern Iraq. The extensive needs for communication and connectivity require giving high priority to the sector.

Currently, the transport network of Missan includes municipal roads and streets, and primary and secondary roads that provide connectivity within the province as well as with Iraq and Iran (see Chapter I.1 Figure 2). Roads systems in Missan include a number of bridges.

The available transport network exploits the position of the province in the region only partially. While it offers acceptable service to industrial and agricultural areas of the governorate, it can be developed further – to facilitate a more balanced development spatially, to help boost rural area development, and to promote regional and international trade.

Airway

Currently, there are no operating passenger/freight traffic airports in the governorate. The Iraq Transport Master Plan (2005) does not envision the realisation of a major airport in Missan province; it does however envision the realisation of small airports that would support internal air traffic demand – through the rehabilitation of the existing military airfields. Therefore, the potential for development of airway traffic lies with the two existing military airfields: one located northwest of Al-Amara city (al-Buteira airfield), and one located in Qalat Saleh Qadha.

Rail

There are at present no railway lines in Missan. A line connecting Al Amara with the Basra–Baghdad–Mosul line would greatly improve the mobility options especially for poorer populations. In this regard, the realisation has been proposed of a new Baghdad–Basra line along the Tigris, passing through Al Kut (Wassit) and Al Amara (Missan)57 - but no implementation of such railway connection has begun.

Primary/secondary roads and bridges

According to last Iraqi Transportation Plan of 2005, Missan has a road network of 467 km. The backbone of the road network is Road 6 which links Baghdad to Basra by the eastern bank of the Tigris River, and there are main roads linking Missan to the neighbouring provinces. Moreover the main road network of Missan is also composed by Route 17, that connects Qadessyiah and Missan Governorates crossing Route 6, Route 16 connecting Nasiriya (Thi-Qar) with Amara and Route 13 that runs to the Iranian border

The 2010 data and 2035 projections have been represented in SP (2015) with tables and diagram of the flows of passengers and freights inside Missan (among the 6 qadhas) in accordance with the output of the traffic model of the Iraqi Transportation Master Plan. . Passenger flows take place mainly on the axes between the cities Al-Amara, Qalat Saleh, Al-Maimouna, Al-Mejar Al-Kabir, and (to a smaller extent) Al Kahla’a; significant freight flows also include Ali Al Garbi. . Main road accessibility data (share of population with access to main road within 2 km distance) shows significant variation by qadha – with populations in Al-Mejar Al-Kabir and Al Kahla’a being significantly deprived f main road access (see Table 17 below). On the whole, poor rural and urban populations are particularly vulnerable to deprivation from mobility,58 and their economic opportunities are particularly limited from lack of transport network access.

Reaching the recommended value of 90-95% of the accessibility index can be achieved by improving the conditions of transport connectivity to the districts with which the largest passenger and freight corridors - Al- Mejar Al-Kabir, Al-Maimouna, Qalat Saleh are being carried out.

57 Iraq Transport Master Plan (2005). This proposal follows an abandoned project proposed by the British Army in the early 1900s. 58 MoMPW (2013), Structure Plan of Missan Governorate Phase 2 – Data Analysis Report (Draft).

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The transport network also suffers from poor quality of roads. Main and secondary roads should be rehabilitated and the entrances of the province should be renovated and developed to regulate public transport with the reorganisation of services according to demand and need for regular traffic. Public transportation services are also very weak. Also, there is a need to improve the management of transport services. This management should be provided with administrative and organisational potentials, new technologies, equipment and programs that enable planning and management of local infrastructure. The reorganisation of administrations, staff training are essential, and a traffic model of the Governorate elaborated with the Iraq Transport Master Plan (ITMP, 2005) should be updated if necessary.

Table 17 Primary, secondary and rural roads in 201659 and main road accessibility60 Qadha Nahia Main roads Secondary roads Rural roads Main road accessibility number % of all number % of all number % of all % of population of cities and villages with access to main road within 2 km distance (%) Al-Amara Al-Amara QC 3 45.5 7 22.6 25 18.7 98.1% Kumait 2 0 9 Al-Mejar Al-Mejar Al-Kabir QC 1 9.1 2 14.1 18 14.3 50.5% Al-Kabir Al-Adel 0 3 4 Al-Khayr 0 1 4 Qalat Saleh Qalat Saleh QC 1 18.2 2 6.5 18 13.2 85.8% Al-Ezair 1 0 6 Al- Al-Maimouna QC 0 9.1 2 9.7 16 23.6 69.1% Maimouna Al-Salam 1 0 13 Said Ahmed Al-Rifaai 0 1 14 Al-Kahla'a Al-Kahla'a QC 0 0.0 6 38.7 11 17.0 55.7% Al-Masharah 0 5 15 Bani Hashim 0 1 5 Ali Al-Garbi Ali Al-Garbi QC 1 18.2 1 3.2 11 13.2 85.6% Ali Al-Sharqi 1 0 13 Missan total 11 100 31 100 182 100 81 % Length total (km) 1078 – including 590 1760 467 km highways

Streets in urban areas

Responsibility for the maintenance of streets in urban neighbourhoods rests with the Missan Directorate of Municipalities and the 15 municipal institutions. Damage to the asphalt cover and rubble in the street network of cities are sadly a usual sight. These factors affect inter alia disrupt public transport – making mobility in cities all the more difficult for the poorer among the population. At the same time, public transport is weak.

Constraints . Poor quality of road conditions and public transportation services . More than half of the small settlements are located far from the main road network . Lack of planning of transportation sector (including Public Transportation Services) at Governorate level; . Staff, laboratories and equipment suffer because of years of technical and material depletion and for limited management and commercial organisational skills . Outdated existing road network in need of rehabilitation . Frequent traffic accidents (e.g. 290 accidents in 2014, resulting in 114 deaths and 219 injuries61); . Dependency on the Roads Directorate for key functions, incl. e.g. training of engineering and technical staff in project management and use of IT; equipment maintenance; repair of roads; GIS availability; etc. . Ineffective regulation of maximum speed and permissible weight of vehicles.

Goals . Improved and rehabilitated network of streets, roads and bridges, with increased capacity and safer streets for citizens; . Improved effectiveness and safety of traffic.

59 Directorate of Roads and Bridges in Missan. Depending on the source, rural roads number 182 to 196, but their overall length is ca. 1760 km. 60 MoMPW (2013), Structure Plan of Missan Governorate Phase 2 – Data Analysis Report (Draft). 61 Data: Administrative Statistics Centre.

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Means to achieve the goals . Road/street/bridge infrastructure:  Maintain existing roads and streets and build new roads and bridges linking inside and outside the province;  Increase the capacity of the existing transport network – including establish second corridors on roads between qadha and nahia centres and establish potential multimodal corridor North-South (including freight logistics hub);  Rehabilitate existing primary and secondary roads and improve access to the main road system;  Increase the percentage of roads furnished with informational signs and stoplights;  Eliminate violations of roads’ requirements;  Build second lane for several bridges;  Maintain and replace old and floating (pontoon) bridges;  Develop the street network in urban areas and increase paved streets;  Provide tiling for sidewalks to new areas and refurbish sidewalks and pavement to affected areas; . Staff/performance capacity:  Provide the department with specialised staff;  Promote specific training courses for administration servants as well as for road and maintenance engineers;  Provide specialised equipment;  Establish transport company for a centrally-organised local public transport system incl. reorganisation from a demand-oriented service to a scheduled service with regular routes;  Improve the public transport services within municipalities of the governorate;  Launch privatisation or form PPP to develop airway transport at al-Buteira airfield;  Increase the role of the private sector in roads development;  Develop technical capacity in terms of technical assistance, equipment and software in order enable the local authorities to plan and manage the regional infrastructure system; . Traffic specific:  Make traffic movement studies;  Develop traffic model for Missan as decision support tool for transport planning;  Decrease traffic bottlenecks;  Improve the traffic services;  Send staff abroad for training;  Procure new traffic equipment and distribute this to cities;  Procure and implement traffic monitoring network;  Start permanent registration of cars;  Continue the traffic compound as soon as possible;  Increase the number of traffic lights and connect them with emergency electricity;  Complete 80th Street in Hillah to lessen traffic jams (part of measures to reduce traffic congestion).

2. Electricity

A reliable power supply is a fundamental requirement for the achievement of several goals that Iraq (and thus the Missan) is pursuing, through the commissioning and production of guidelines and five-year development plans, which invest all areas of the territory.

The electricity infrastructure in Missan suffers from severe damage (going back to the Gulf War), underinvestment and a lack of equipment.

The geographical distribution is not sufficient to ensure quality level of the supplied energy. There is a 400kV backbone running from north to south of the Governorate that connects Missan with Wassit (north) and Basra (south), with the substation of 400 kV located in Amara. The east and west areas of the Governorate are not well served by major backbones.

The peripheral areas of the territory (east and west) are the less populated and include most of the villages without connection to the public network. The total amount of villages connected to the public network have a

60 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS delivery time of energy equal to 10 hours a day (in the remaining hours are generally used private generators, but we have no data regarding this parallel market). The percentage of villages not served is around 5 %.

The proper and effective delivery of energy in the province depends on the extent of 400 kV and 132 kV distribution, not on the local distribution. The periodical lack of electrical energy is due to limited production and the (limited) capacity of high voltage lines to carry power, involving the national grid.

. Missan Governorate is on boundary with Iran, in a peripheral location. A main line 400 kV pass through from North-West Wassit Governorate to South-East Basra Governorate. . Main connection are represented by Wassit Kut 4 and Basra 400 to Amara AMR4 Substation, where another line joins from Iran. . Amara AMR4 is the only substation at 400 kV existing inside Missan Governorate but it is under construction, as there are nr.2 future lines 132 kV connecting to New Amara and to South Amara. . Actually, all power used from grid inside Missan Governorate is supplied at 132 kV from Kut Old Substation (Wassit), Rifai Substation (Thi-Qar), Qurna (Basra) and from internal Power Plant (North Amara Diesel Plant, Al Kahla’a Power Plant and Al Bazirkan Power Plant).

The quality of power and the continuity of service are closely linked. In fact, with regard to continuity of service, it turns out to be poor (having regard to the energy delivery for a few hours a day, equal to 10). This may be due to quality performance, which involves an assessment of both the overall performance of 400kV – 132kV networks (in particular from that to 400kV across all of Iraq) and status of the installed equipment.

Table 18 Electricity grid of Missan, 2016 Current grid (operating) Number Notes Stations 11/22/132 K.F. 4 fixed Stations 33/132 K.F 2 fixed Mobile stations 33/132 K.F. 3 mobile Mobile stations 11/132 K.F. 4 mobile Stations 33 K.F. 28 Feeders 33 K.F. 42 Feeders 11 operating 270 Transformers 7431

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Table 19 Electricity sector indicators for Missan province Electricity Operating Suspended Design capacity (MW) Electricity Type of distribution Capacity (MVA) Energy Rate of Required electric generation electricity electricity distribution stations produced consumption energy stations (n) generating generation stations (n) (MW/h) (MW/h) (MW/hour) units (n) units (n) K.V 10*(2*31.5)+1(2*1 110 512.5ثابتة )MW) ، 11 )11/33 200 ) دي زل محطة-1 1 2 واحدة محطة Al-Amara (160MW 6=(60*2+40)-2 غازية مع واحدة ال غازي ة محطة ديزل =2 K.V (2*10) +(2*31.5) 8 277 447 333 22.5ثابتة )Kameet 0 0 0 2 )11/33 K.V (2*31.5) +(2*16) 3 028 715 714 76.5ثابتة )Al-Mejar Al-Kabir 0 0 0 2 )11/33 K.V (5+10) 5 156 442 857 13ثابتة )Al-Adl 0 0 0 1 )11/33 Al-Khabar 0 0 0 0 None 3 K.V (5+10)+(2*31.5) 1 409 298 333 40.5ثابتة )Qalat Saleh 0 0 0 2 )11/33 K.V 606 625 16متنقلة )Al-Azeer 0 0 0 2 )11/132 K.V (2*31.5) +(2*10) 22ثابتة )Al-Maimouna 0 0 0 2 )11/33 K.V (5+16) 14.5ثابتة )Al-Salam 0 0 0 1 )11/33 Sayed Ahmad Al-Rifai 0 0 0 0 None 3 K.V (2*10) 200 23ثابتة )MW 2- 1 )11/33 180= (45*4) -1 6 2 محطة غازية = Al-Kahla 2 (4*125)= 500 MW K.V (2*31.5) 13.5ثابتة )Al-Mashrah 0 0 0 1 )11/33 K.V (2*16) 7ثابتة )Bani Hashim 0 0 0 1 )11/33 23 795 712 67 ومتنقلة K.Vثابتة )Ali Algharbi 0 0 0 2 )11/33 )11/132( K.V (2*5) +(2*16) 5 771 750 583 15ثابتة )Ali Alsharqi 0 0 0 2 )11/33 Total 4 4 7 30 310 23 711 974 240 805

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Constraints . The main problem is the lack of continuous service - the delivery time of energy is equal to 10 hours a day. During the blackout by public grid, the remaining supply of energy is through private generators; . Electricity generation in Missan is insufficient; . The electricity network is greatly overused (stations, transmission lines, etc.). Old networks have direct effects on the stability of the electric power supply, causing frequent failures and waste of manpower and financial resources; . There is deficit of specialised staff in the electricity sector.

Goals . Continuous and stable supply of electrical power supports in full the needs citizens, public institutions and businesses and ensures prosperity and sustained socio-economic development; . Energy supply from alternative energy sources and reduced power consumption support both the economic efficiency and the good environmental quality in the province.

Means to achieve the goals . To ensure continuous service:  Develop a series of high-efficiency power plants, also using renewable energy, small and medium size, able to satisfy local need for continuity of electrical service;  Network restructuring step by step to bring the hours of delivery of energy to 24 hours per day. . Improve the service of electrical distribution in the cities; . Support and develop computerised maintenance; . Train and rehabilitate the working cadres; . Address trespass of all types in the cities; . Increase the loads of the national grid for the next five years of different sectors; . Maintain and replace the old nets in the urban and rural areas; . Establish new networks for the newly established neighbourhoods; . Improve the service of electrical distribution in the rural areas; . Maintain and replace the old networks in the rural areas; . Establish new networks for villages; . Increase capacity of transformers 33/11 & 132/33; . Replace and maintain aging parts in current secondary transformer stations; . Increase transformer capacity 132/33KV & 33/11KV.

3. Water supply service

Access to safe water supply is one of the main determinants of the standard of living, and premise for the good health status of the population. Sustained quantities of water are required for the development of economic activities. Thus, socio-economic development is unthinkable in the absence of effective water supply service and water resource management.

Water supply in Missan is responsibility of the Missan Directorate of Water. The Water Directorate has 11 separate units reporting to the General Director. The Directorate oversees district and sub-district water offices (delivery units) which manage the water supply service within the administrative areas under their jurisdiction.

All the water used for water supply service purposes in Missan comes from surface water sources (all the main settlements in Missan are located close to Tigris river or a canal from which raw water is abstracted). The river water is used for drinking water supply to urban and rural areas as well as for agricultural purposes. With impact in water quantity, the flow of the Tigris has been receding. The water quality suffers from medium-high salinity, especially in the southern part of the Governorate.

3.1. Drinking water supply

Ensuring drinking water supply service has been a challenge. The governorate has witnessed a great housing expansion after 2003 in all areas of the province, with a high degree of urbanisation. A great number of villages remotely scattered, while large areas lack complexes of villages. Thus the Water Department was burdened with

63 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS a significant number of accumulated water units distributed on the governorate's villages. At present: . Due to the low water quality, the water requires treatment before being supplied to populated areas. Several treatment plants, compact units, or desalination units (RO units) have been installed to provide the populated areas with its water needs; . Water purification is none in rural areas. Shortage in water supply and use of untreated water (especially as coupled with poor sanitation practices) have increased the incidence of waterborne diseases to a critical level and contributed to the mortality of infants and children living in the rural areas62; . The coverage rate of the system is very high – 0.98 on average. Only in two districts it is lower than 100% - in Al-Amara where the scarcity rate is 0.07% and in Al-Mejar Al-Kabir with 0.2 scarcity rate; . 95% of villages are covered by water networks. . The total actual water capacity of the entire governorate is ca. 295 billion l/day (383 billion l/day design capacity), where respectively 72%, 6.92% and 4.38% of provision are supplied by installations in Al Amara, Al-Mejar Al-Kabir and Qalat Saleh qadhas; . The water supply in served areas is 315 l/person/day on average according to MoMPW63; calculations based on actual capacity of water supply infrastructure show a value of 297 l/person/day; . Significant differences in supply levels exist between the districts and nahias (see Table 20); . The water quality in the Tigris suffers from high salinity, nitrates concentration and turbidity. This is due to presence of untreated wastewater effluent and discharges from irrigation activities. Sewage effluents points are close to the intake works and this affects the variation in water quality even in daily timescale. . The water pressure in the distribution network is low and this prompted users to install pumps at house connection to increase water amount to the house, causing problems at house connections . Most projects and complexes have not been qualified since 2013, and thus this has reflected on the quantity and quality of water ready to be provided to citizens, and a gap of 26% in water quantity and a 15% gap in the quality of water especially in the governorate's centre

The status of the water supply system could be summarised as follows: . Surface water is considered for Missan governorate as the main water source of potable water. Groundwater is not considered as main exploited water resource within the province. This resource is used for livestock and irrigation purposes. All raw water comes from surface sources and as a consequence needs to be treated to be suitable for human consumption. . Almost all towns have their own water treatment plants working continuously 20-22 h/day. . The consolidated average coverage of piped water supply service is 93% in urban and 29% in rural areas. . The present production system capability is adequate to meet the water demand in each city.

Six standards have been adopted for the drinking water supply service64: (1) Coverage of water service; (2) Quantity of supplied drinkable water per person; (3) Quality of supplied water per person; (4) Level of measurement of quantity of water for subscriptions; (5) Continuation of service; and (6) Level of handling citizens’ complaints. Missan Directorate of Water has kept its commitment to indicators 1, 5 and 6 by 100%, while with regard to indicators 2, 3 and 4 (quality, quantity and measurement) there are challenges (Table 21).

Table 20 Drinking water supply service in Missan – gap analysis, 201465 Indicator Standard value Actual value Gap The served population with direct connection to network 100 % 100 % 0% Quantity of supplied water per person per day 450 litres 315 litres 135 litres Continuation of service66 100 % 100 % 0% Quality of supplied water 100 % 85 % 15% Level of measurement of quantity of water for subscription 100 % 3,9 % 96,1% Level of efficiency at handling citizens’ complaints 100 % 100 % 0%

62 According to field survey conducted by UNICEF in 2011 for 90 villages in Missan governorate. 63 MoMPW (2013), Structure Plan of Missan Governorate Phase 2 –Data Analysis Report (Draft) 64 MoMPW (2013), Structure Plan of Missan Governorate Phase 2 –Data Analysis Report (Draft) 65 Data from Missan Water Directorate (March 2015), Missan Province: Service Delivery Improvement Plan (SDIP). 66 Continuation of services is assessed as 100% while in the conclusions of the gap analysis (part of the SDIP), the need to increase the duration by 2 hours is indicated.

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Table 21 Drinking water indicators, Missan province, 2016 Tap water service/ 2015 Design Actual capacity Served Per capita share per capita share per capita share indicators capacity (l/day) population (l/ person/day) (actual capacity) (design capacity) (l/day) (n) Al-Amara 250 000 000 212 500 000 489 390 450 434 511 Kameet 6 480 000 3 240 000 35 653 250 91 182 Al-Mejar Al-Kabir 24 000 000 20 400 000 85 232 350 239 282 Al-Adl 6 000 000 4 800 000 20 470 250 234 293 Al-Khabar 6 000 000 2 400 000 23 312 250 103 257 Qalat Saleh 15 200 000 12 912 000 58 686 350 220 259 Al-Azeer 8 400 000 4 800 000 44 305 250 108 190 Al-Maimouna 10 440 000 7 140 000 50 000 350 143 209 Al-Salam 5 640 000 4 800 000 35 917 250 134 157 Sayed Ahmad Al-Rifai 1 400 000 480 000 13 666 250 35 102 Al-Kahla 26 400 000 8 000 000 37 015 350 216 713 Al-Mashrah 6 000 000 3 600 000 29 473 250 122 204 Bani Hashim 1 400 000 480 000 18 733 250 26 75 Ali Algharbi 11 200 000 6 400 000 30 383 350 211 369 Ali Alsharqi 4 440 000 3 000 000 20 199 250 149 220 Governorate average 383 000 000 294 952 000 992 434 296,7 164,3 268

Many of the current problems in the sector are related to the separation of functions between operations and maintenance and investment planning, financing and implementation. The sector has hierarchal structure67: . Managers in the districts, those closest to the consumer, have very little control over their day-to-day operations. They receive direction and instruction from the Directors at the Governorate level (e.g. of the Missan Directorate of Water). The Directors themselves must obtain authorisation for the majority of their work from the MoMPW. The Director General of Water at MMPW supervises all activities in the Governorates. His decisions must be approved by the Minister; . The relevant budget is controlled by MoMPW, MoP and MoF; . A number of other institutions are also involved in decision-making regarding setting of standards, developing raw water supply, and monitoring quality; . Many governmental bodies have some level of control and overlap of duties in the sector; . Additionally, despite the context of decentralisation, current legislations still create highly centralised operations in the sector. This context results in a situation where: . Service providers have limited power to do planning of investments, financing, construction and maintenance of projects; thus they have limited power to make improvements in services, maintenance and operations. They also have no control regarding quality and price of services provided; . The delivery units depend on all departments above them for all operations; they have no financial or administrative autonomy; and they too have hierarchical structure. This system results in a bureaucratic process that generates service delays, makes it extremely difficult to overcome emergencies, and creates inefficiencies that negatively affect service users; . Finally, the current organisation structure separates operations and maintenance from investment planning, making good resource allocation decisions more difficult.

At the same time, the delivery of drinking water in good quantity and quality and the effective management of the water supply system need considerable financial allocations – not least to ensure specialised and well qualified technical staff for management and operation. Revenues are not sufficient to cover the cost of maintenance and operation of projects and complexes and maintenance of water network (purchasing fuel, electricity fees, and maintenance of projects, complexes and networks). This has led to a delay in rehabilitation works – with impact on service quality.

3.2. Irrigation water supply

In 2011, the main priority of the water resources sector was “Reclamation of arable lands in the governorate and rationalisation of water use for irrigation according to the effective water requirements for a larger agricultural

67 MoMPW (2013), Structure Plan of Missan Governorate Phase 2 –Data Analysis Report (Draft)

65 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS areas while ensuring higher production and crop yield/donum.”68 Currently, water supply for irrigation is limited to only a few parts of the province. To improve service in this regard: . The MoMPW Structure Plan of Missan Governorate (2013) envisions the completion of four irrigation projects, some of which have been already partially developed: Kut Butaira, Abu Bshout, Nahr Sa’ad and Amarah. These irrigation projects do not cover the total potential agricultural area, but they do cover Al- Amara, Al-Mejar Al-Kabir, Qalat Saleh and Al-Kahla'a qadhas, and Al-Maimouna QC and Al-Salam nahias. . Solutions require a balance between water use – particularly for agriculture – and water supply to the marshlands. Analysis shows that 70% of water for agriculture is lost through inadequate irrigation methods and land preparation.69 Among farmers, there is agreement on the need to improve irrigation methods, but GoI has not been effective in applying solutions. Several attempts to promote modern irrigation system have been made, but the subsidy scheme was found unappealing to farmers.

3.3. Water resource management

In Missan province, the sustainability of water resources is at risk – in terms of both water quantity and water quality (see Chapter I.2). The failing water level of rivers and decreasing water quality values require effective solutions to ensure sufficient quantities of water and adequate water quality. With regard to water supply for agriculture, water scarcity – in terms of quantity as well as quality – is defined as a critical point. With regard to drinking water supply, the new Service Delivery Improvement Plan (SDIP) of Missan Water Directorate70 defines water quality as a key element which reflects positively on the health and economic development of the society. Actions in this regard are determined in coordination between the Missan Water Directorate and the Ministry of Water Resources (MoWR).

The management of water resources (WRM) is a significant task in Missan, which involves a complex system of hydraulic structures. Surface WRM is responsibility of the Missan Water Directorate. The Directorate is tasked with: the maintenance and operation of the water regulator structures distributed on the territory and pivotal for the development of agriculture activities; supervision of water distribution in every irrigation scheme; regulation of marshlands flooding; and supervision of water use – to increase efficiency and avoiding water waste. The Directorate is also responsible for drinking water supply in the province, including adequate water quality and quantity.

Water sharing is governed by the MoWR 2015 Strategy for Water and Land Resources in Iraq (SWLRI)71 – which is based on the concept of the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) and which includes investment strategy for the water and agriculture sector.

To improve WRM performance and efficiency in Missan, two hydraulic structures are planned: 1. To manage the ouflow of Haweizeh Marsh – along Al-Kassarah Outlet (upstream the confluence with the Tigris). The design of this structure requires that it can manage both low and high flows, including 100- year flow event (125 m3/s). The overall structure will be comprised of three gates and one weir; and 2. To manage the inflow in Central Marsh – along Butaira, as defined by the New Eden Master Plan (Sept 2006). The design of this structure requires that it can manage flow of 270 m3/s. During extreme events, the proposed structure should be able to accommodate some part of a combined 100-year flow event flowing through both the Butaira and Al-Areeth rivers. The overall structure will be comprised of four gates and two weirs positioned at different levels to handle different flows.

Ensuring adequate water supply to meet demand across sectors requires rigorous policy and water management, aligned with the currently available and expected future resources and needs. Best practices and methods should be studied to identify the optimal water usage and water management options.

Constraints . Deterioration of water resources – linked to:  Pollution/contamination – from industry, from sewerage effluents, discharges from irrigation activities  Severe shortage in water levels – due to damming and draughts

68 Provincial development plan of Missan 2011. 69 Scenarios and Alternatives Report Structural Plan. 70 Missan Water Directorate (March 2016), Missan Water: Service Delivery Improvement Plan (SDIP). 71 MoWR (2015), Strategy for Water and Land Resources in Iraq for 2015-2035: elaborated under USAID financing, adopted in Jan 2015.

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. Low pressure in the distribution network . Incomplete coverage in both urban and rural areas . Low efficiency of the distribution systems e.g. excessive leakage (notwithstanding an adequate production capacity) . Inefficient management structure . Weak operation and maintenance procedures . Lack of financial allocations; low revenues . Lack of specialised machinery and equipment . Lack of human resources and specialised engineers and technicians . Lack of staff capacity in some departments (maintenance and collection) . Incomplete coverage of water service. . Quantity of supplied drinkable water per person . Quality of supplied water per person . Level of measurement of quantity of water for subscriptions . Continuation of service . Low level of handling citizens’ complaints . Lack of ground water tanks and pump stations.

Goals . Drinking water provided to all the citizens of Missan province, in accordance with the approved drinking water standard specifications, and in line with current and future expected demand. . Effective and efficient water supply service that ensures sustained and safe supply of water to citizens, industries and agriculture.

Means to achieve the goals . With regard to water supply:  Increase areas with potable water;  Increase the amount of water supplied to the served areas;  Maintain and replace water networks that need treatment;  Increase irrigation water;  Rehabilitate irrigation water networks;  Improve the water quality;  Improve water chemical treatment;  Conduct all lab tests to control the quality of water; . With regard to water resources:  Integrated lands’ reform according to modern techniques in the province;  Increase water share for agricultural lands;  Develop and increase used engineering sets;  Provide strategic programs to educate and raise awareness of water users;  Increase drainages’ networks;  Change current irrigation laws;  Rehabilitate main drainages for reform projects;  Rehabilitate pump stations for drainages;  Increase lined canals to unlined;  Address the issue of trespass on fish lakes and rice growth;  Updating studies and designs related to reform projects;  Develop water monitoring system (measure discharges and water levels;  Remove water plants from drainages;  Increase technical and engineering staff;  Entering central control system for regulators/ gates of water discharge.

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Table 22 Proposed projects by the Missan Water Directorate Timeline Projects Short . Implement transporting Ductile lines from secondary stations to the new unified project of Al-Amara to the term internal networks, diameters (700 mm -) . Prepare spare material for water projects and complexes and operating water networks in the governorate ( push and pull, submergers, chlorine equipment, generators, filtering and disinfecting material, plastic tubes with different diameters with auxiliaries, water networks maintenance material, field vehicles) . Rehabilitate water projects and complexes operating in the centre of the governorate ( the unified project+ AL Batira complexes, AL-Karama, Al Wehda Alislamya, Al-Sadr, Taj AL Islam, Al Hay Al-Askary, Al-Rafden project) . Execute the warehouse ceilings with the management . Execute water networks and requalifying of manholes n different neighbourhoods in the centre and outskirts, with construction of the building of western networks, and reconstruction of the east networks building in the centre. . Training courses to develop capacities of engineering and technical staff . Execute the strategic unified project of Al-Maimouna area . Execute the strategic unified project of Al-Salam and Sayed Ahmad Al-Rifai areas . Execute water networks to solve the bottlenecks in the villages of the governorate Medium . Prepare spare material for water projects and complexes and operating water networks in the governorate ( term push and pull, submergers, chlorine equipment, generators, filtering and disinfecting material, plastic tubes with different diameters with auxiliaries, water networks maintenance material, field vehicles) . Rehabilitate water projects and complexes operating in the centre of the governorate ( Al-Munjed, AL- Yarmouk, Dour Al-Nift, Al Rahman, Al-Kahera, Al Zahra, Al Ourouba, Dajla) . Prepare and build water complexes with capacities of 400 M³/h, 200 M³/h in the centre and outskirts. . Rehabilitate water projects and complexes in the outskirts ( Ali Algharbi, Ali Alsharqi, Kameet, Al Azeer, Alsalam, Al Maimouna, Aladl, Almashrah, Alkhair, Sayer Ahmad Alrifai, Qalat Saleh) . Implement the strategic unified project in Ali Algharbi area . Implement the strategic unified project in AlAzeer area . Implement the second phase of Al-Mejar Al-Kabir project with the line feeding Al-Adl area . Implement water networks and manholes in different areas in the centre and outskirts . Deliver training courses to develop capacities of engineering and technical staff Long term . Prepare spare material for water projects and complexes and operating water networks in the governorate ( push and pull, submergers, chlorine equipment, generators, filtering and disinfecting material, plastic tubes with different diameters with auxiliaries, water networks maintenance material, field vehicles) . Rehabilitate water projects and complexes operating in the centre of the governorate ( Alrahma, Abu Shteib, supporting station of industrial housing complex, supporting station o old buildings area) . Rehabilitate water projects and complexes in the outskirts ( Ali Algharbi, Ali Alsharqi, Kameet, AlAzeer, Alsalam, Al Maimouna, Aladl, Almashrah, Alkhair, Sayer Ahmad Alrifai, Qalat Saleh) . Implement the strategic unified project in Ali Alsharqi – Kameet . Implement the strategic unified project in Qalat Saleh . Implement the strategic unified project in Al-Mashrah

4. Wastewater management service

Effective wastewater management benefits human health, the quality and quantity of water resources, and aquatic communities. As such, it is vital for socio-economic development, especially in the context of declining water resources.

Wastewater management in Missan is responsibility of the Missan Sewerage Directorate. The Directorate oversees district and sub-district water offices (delivery units) which manage the sanitation service within the administrative areas under their jurisdiction. The delivery units depend on the above departments for all operations; they have no financial or administrative autonomy; and the have hierarchical structure. This system results in a bureaucratic process that generates service delays, makes it extremely difficult to overcome emergencies, and creates inefficiencies that negatively affect service users. Finally, the current organisation structure separates operations and maintenance from investment planning, making good resource allocation decisions more difficult.

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With regard to coverage and capacity of the sewerage network: . Main city areas are totally covered by a sewage network72 . Storm water drainage collector systems are present in the urban cities and the main drainage network is about 112 km . In urban areas, it has become common practice for households to connect illegally to the storm systems; Illegal connection to the storm water network is estimated 3% in the main cities. . There is absence of wastewater collectors in some unserved areas . The coverage of wastewater system in the Missan governorate is ranging between 60% and 100 %, Amara has 98% coverage rate as regards sewage network and other urban towns reach 100%. . There is no public sewerage service in rural areas.73 . With the exception of Amara QC, no wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) have been built and raw sewage is discharged untreated into the final receptors. . Three important WWTP are under construction in Amara (al Bateerah), Al Maimouna and Al-Mejar Al- Kabir, one WWTP has been completed recently but it is not in operation. The extended unit of existing WWTP in Amara is on progress.

In rural areas, households in many cases discharge their wastewater into septic tanks and then directly onto unpaved roads from where the sewage runs into small ditches or into the small canals used for irrigation purposes which cross the inhabited areas.

The use of untreated water and poor hygienic sanitary practices have increased the incidence of waterborne diseases to a critical level and contributed to the mortality of infants and children living in the rural areas. As illustrated in the field survey conducted by UNICEF in 2011 for 90 villages in Missan governorate and confirmed during the SGI field survey all villages suffered from shortage in water supply and lack of sanitation system. Also, presence of common diseases like Typhoid, Measles, Asthma, Diarrhea and Black Fever have been reported where the cause of some of these diseases can be related to hygiene at household or neighbourhoods.

Table 23 Wastewater management infrastructure in Missan province, 201674 Infrastructure per qadha Ali Ali Garbi Amara Al Maimouna Al-Mejar Al- Qalat Saleh Al Kahla’a Total in Kabir Missan Lifting stations 1 1 2 Sewer networks 2 2 2 3 1 3 13 Storm water networks 1 1 1 1 1 5 WWTPs 2 1 1 4

Given the limited resources that can be mobilised with the present financial constraints, large investments are needed to satisfy demand and to raise service standards to fully satisfactory levels.

Constraints . Lack of financial allocations. . Lack of human resources and skilled staff . Lack of the stability of the electric current . Lack of public awareness represented by the improper use of the networks . Lack of legislations which reduce the illegal connection. . Scarcity of specialised companies in the implementation of projects . Limitation of revenue collection . Lack of adequate billing and collection systems (also due to the very limited number of customers) . Lack of the necessary O&M tools and equipment for proper wastewater management . Lack of computerised administrative/management technology such as inventory and computer maintenance management system (CMMS), GIS wastewater applications . Lack of sewerage network coverage of cities . Depreciated and damaged sewerage network (e.g. cracks and leakages) . Poor maintenance and operation of treatment plants . Outdated wastewater treatment methods

72 Information on urban networks and WTTPs – Missan Water Department. 73 According to field survey conducted by UNICEF in 2011 for 90 villages in Missan governorate. 74 MoMPW (2013), Structure Plan of Missan Governorate Phase 2 –Data Analysis Report (Draft).

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. Lack of electronic control system to control the operation of pump stations . Areas of coverage exist outside sewerage network maps – due to missing data there is need for mapping of old networks . Need for capacity building of governorate staff to deal with waste management.

Goals

 Improve levels of wastewater collection in areas covered by the wastewater network and in areas with concentration of population (incl. new urban development);  Achieve sufficient and effective wastewater management service that supports human health, water quality and water availability.

Means to achieve the goals . Provide/improve rainwater and sewage discharge networks . Improve rainwater discharge networks . Complete studies and designs for sewage network in the whole province . Implement new rainwater discharge networks and pump stations according to the studies . Provide services of sewage discharge networks . Evaluate the state of equipment in projects . Develop staff capacities with regard to use of equipment . Establish branch networks and substations . Establish main lines for sewage discharge . Maintain and rehabilitate the old sewage discharge network lines . Expand and implement treatment plants.

5. Waste management

Poor waste management is a major social and economic risk linked to diseases and pollution (esp. of water resources). Effective waste management can add to the economy (as well as quality of life) by providing inputs to other industries, including energy production.

In urban areas of Missan Governorate, solid waste collection/processing and cleaning services are responsibility of municipal institutions. The Missan Directorate of Municipalities oversees 15 municipal institutions. These are responsible for the implementation of services and projects related to the establishment and maintenance of streets, parks and public spaces within the administrative boundaries of cities. Outside municipal areas, waste management is responsibility of the Governorate service.

Solid waste includes municipal solid waste (from streets, households, etc.), commercial and industrial waste, construction and demolition waste, hazardous waste, hospital/health waste. In the absence of sorting and control mechanisms, all of this ends up in municipal landfills. At the same time, the existing capacity of landfills vis-à-vis generated waste is very low.

In the urban areas in Missan Governorate, municipalities are responsible for collection, storage, transport and final disposal of solid waste. In recent times, the local authorities in some cases have entrusted some of the collection functions to private contractors. Limited facilities were found to be available for solid waste collection and transport and were available mostly to major centres. Outskirt areas did not have such services and tended to dump their waste at the nearest available land.

In urban areas, the door pick-up is the most applied method for the collection of municipal waste (residents place their waste in bins located on sidewalks) but also community bins on the streets is applied. Primary storage locations currently operative for waste for each municipality include: . Plastic waste bins of capacities ranging from 0.77 to 1.5 m3 . Metal waste bins/containers of capacities ranging from 1 to 12 m3

Overall there is a good percentage of collection in the Governorate in the urban areas. In particular, almost 95% collection was recorded in sub-districts of Ali Alsharqi and Qalat Saleh. Less performant areas are located in Al- Mejar Al-Kabir and Al Maimouna (anyway over 80% collection), corresponding to more rural areas. Overall in the Governorate the majority of the buildings are served by door pick up collection system, while the remaining makes use of collective bins on the street.

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The majority of wastes collected by municipalities or by private contractors is disposed of in open dumps and often burned. Large heaps of garbage on the outskirts of the major cities were observed. In some of them, the garbage is periodically levelled and compacted, in others the garbage is piled as high as equipment would permit, and some were ignited and allowed to burn to reduce volume.

Dumping sites both legal and illegal are the principal way in which waste is disposed of. No recycling system has been reported in Missan. Each governorate municipality has its own dumpsites or use another dumpsite located in another municipality. Most of these sites are uncontrolled dumpsites, their design is not suitable, and they do not work according to proper operating standards. These sites have negative impact on public health or environment. There are 15 random dumpsites in the governorate, all of them are uncontrolled. Some of these dumpsites have a natural lining of clay soil with the water table deep below the ground surface, which may allow them to be classified as controlled dumpsites in need of developing an appropriate management plan. Currently, there is no reported operation plan for any of the dumpsites.

Ca. 62 % of Missan population is served by garbage collection system. Concerning solid waste main opportunities of development and exchange with neighbouring governorates could involve the realisation of a regional integrated system for the management of solid waste.

In the Governorate there is a good percentage of solid waste collection in urban areas (up to 95% in some capitals) while rural areas remain mostly uncovered by the waste collection system. The extension of the collection system is an opportunity for future development. Considering that all the dumping sites are uncontrolled a need, a challenge and also a potentiality for the Governorate is represented by the control and establishment of operational plans for granting the environmental safety for all dumping sites.

The main disposal sites are located close to main water courses. Most of the existing dumping sites have very low environmental safety standards: there is a major risk that harmful pollutants reach directly or indirectly into surface and ground waters.

Considering the existence of the Iraqi National Solid Waste Master Plan, the regional plan including the collection, transfer, treatment, and disposal plan for the short, medium and long term shall be built.

Constraints

 Lack of/insufficient funding allocated for waste management and cleaning  Inadequate specialised machinery and maintenance – linked to low funding  Low public awareness about the importance of waste management and waste hazards  Weak regulation and audit/control procedures regarding waste  Lack of fuel and equipment . Strained staff capacity and low occupational safety.

Goals . Achieve clean and healthy environment free of accumulated waste in all parts of the province; . Establish an environmentally sound waste collection and disposal system, consistent with best international practices – including (1) develop systematic collection, treatment and processing of waste, (2) establish adequate number of landfills with proper design, and (3) improve operational control procedures and effective daily management across the waste life cycle.

Means to achieve the goals . Enhance the performance of municipalities . Increase municipalities’ income . Develop municipalities’ headquarters . Update municipalities’ laws . Enhance work practices and techniques . Develop the skills and capabilities of staff . Increase the cleanness and beauty of the cities . Establish entertaining areas and parks . Keep the existing green zones . Clean the cities . Prepare municipal lands for residential development.

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6. Communications

Modern communications systems are vital for the development of the province. Across the world, access to communications is linked to economic growth, increased incomes, improved services delivery, and the development of enterprises. A dependable communications infrastructure is essential for efficient administration, management, and operation of the public and private sectors. This includes areas such as: internal government operations, citizens’ services, trade, banking and financial services, advertising and tourism. In Missan specifically, communications and mail services complement and help capitalise on the location of the governorate as a link between Iran/Basra port and the rest of Iraq.

The communication sector in the province relies mainly on the three private telecom operators (Asia Cell, Zain Iraq and Korek Telecom) for provision of mobile phone services.

Public communication services in the province are provided by the Public Company for Communications and Mail (SOE) under MoTC through the Missan Communications and Mail Department. Services include landline phone communication, link to optical fibre network, telecommunications, internet and intranet services, mail and safety deposit box services. The cables network includes (1) copper networks to provide landline communication service and (2) optical access networks (FTTH) which provides communication and internet services to citizens and public departments.

Still, public communications infrastructures in the province are insufficient – due to long-term damage and neglect of infrastructure since the Iran-Iraq War, and due to lack of funding for completion of proposed projects. E.g. in 2014, working telephone exchanges in the province were only 9, each serving more than 140 000 people on average; and only 54 000 fixed lines were operational – i.e. 4.2 lines per 100 people – which is far below demand and below the standard set by the MoTC (25-35 lines per every 100 people). In addition to issues of capacity, quality is also an issue – as much of technology and infrastructure remain outdated.

Table 24 Communications indicators for Missan, 2014 (COSIT) Indicator Total (n) Zain Asiacell Korek Units per 100 Citizens served by 1 citizens* (n) unit* on average (n) Telephone exchanges 9 0.0007 142 291 Fixed telephone lines 54 000 4.22 23.7 Mobile telephone lines 951 834 45.7% 44.8% 9.5% 74.3 1.35 Post offices 13 (1135 PO boxes) 0.001 98 509 *Average number based on 2016 population data.

The public communications service has strengths in that: . The territory of the province is largely covered by the position and diffusion of transmission towers; . The quality of the telephone signal is mostly acceptable – with the exception of some areas in the south of the province; . Synergies can be created between Governorates to share communication towers allowing to properly cover efficiently the entire territory; . The five-year plan (2010-2014) established by the Directorate of Telecommunications has some specific guidelines for the development of the public communications sector.

The following are the proposed projects for developing the sector – including projects to extend and upgrade the infrastructure, to improve the quality of service, and to improve revenues in the sector. The majority are stopped or delayed due to lack of financial allocations; work on some has started (completion rate as of early 2017 is given). . Provide the equipment and complete technical and civil works as relevant to linking the government departments in Missan, including:  Prepare and link the FTTH system of 181 government department, and 57 Camera observation sites within the allocation of regions development knowing that the OLT capacity is 2000;  Deliver internet and voice and video communication services through the FTTH systems;  Prepare special equipment to develop and expand the optical distribution networks within the allocations of regions development; . Implement a wireless system, including:  Phase I – build 8 peripheral stations with towers and necessary necessary accessories, distributed in the governorate to cover areas that do not receive communication services (Nahr Alsad, Almajar, Hay

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Aljihad, Hay Alsadeq, Hay Alwehda Alislamya, Hay Nahawand, Alhay Alaskari and Alamara) – within the regional development plan (stopped due to lack of funding; 60% completion rate);  Phase II – build 11 peripheral stations with towers and necessary necessary accessories to provide the communication services in the following areas: Almashrah, Alkahla, Bani Hashim, Alqala, Alazeer, Almajar, Aladl, Alsala, Almaymouna (ongoing, awarded to Huawei, 70% completion rate); . Build a communication tower project in Ali Algharbi (as a part of the wireless phone requirements) to prepare the infrastructure of the wireless project (stopped; 60% completion rate); . Build communication equipment and systems in Alsheeb border point; . Provide training and development of the technical and administrative staff through internal and external training courses; . Implement FTTH optical access network strategic projects, as a part of the MoTC investment plan, with a capacity of 9000 subscribers, to be operated in the central area not served with phones (including the areas of Dbeisat, Qadesya, Alnida, Hay Alaskari, Dour Almahad, Kolleya, Ofeya, Ardat); . Extend optical lines to meet citizen demand and to advance services (e.g. Internet). The project is ongoing; building, programming and maintenance works are performed by the Department's staff. This project has led to increase of the monthly revenues of the department, compared to previous years; . Implement optical distribution network with 13 000 subscribers capacity. Work has started (within the investment plan) and it includes many areas of the Al Amara city centre (88% completion rate); . Implement projects such as laying cable pipes and channels in the Al Amara city centre and outskirts (in coordination with other departments of the governorate) – to be used as an infrastructure for future communication projects. So far a few hundred km of pipe lines have been laid; . Reconstruct the building of the Missan Communications and Mail Department to facilitate sector development in the governorate; . Implement new communication and mail buildings in remote areas (Ali Algharbi, Almaymouna, Alkahla, Kameet and Qalet Saleh) to facilitate the development of the sector, according to modern designs and using modern equipment for telephone exchanges, networks and communication. . Build an NGN telephone exchange and mediator telephone exchange (Ericson), with 20 000 subscribers capacity each (completed) – and replaced the direct payment system with the previous payment system using IN cards.

Constraints . Lack of financial allocations to complete projects . Difficulties in obtaining the due approvals regarding the wireless phone frequencies . Lack of information management skills . Missing proper information management tools (databases and IT systems) . Need to establish and update the governorate database . Lack of coordination of information collection and distribution . Citizens not provided with sound communication systems.

Goals . Adequate communication services using the best available technology support the effective work of the administration, public service provision, the development of the local economy, economic growth and social development - including:  Voice/video communications and broadcasting services are delivered to all areas of the governorate;  Public departments are connected to the infrastructure required for the e-governance.

Means to achieve the goals . Complete pending projects and projects delayed due to the lack of funding – specifically:  Complete the implementation of the wireless system in Missan (Phase I and Phase II);  Complete the implementation of optical distribution network within the MoTC investment plan; . Expand the wireless phone project to include all areas of Missan province; . Expand the system which links public departments to include all departments and organisations in remote areas and link them to central Missan; . Expand and upgrade the optical access networks (FTTH) to include all the areas of central Missan; . Operate VOIP call and TV broadcasting services through the optical access networks; . Upgrade the wireless phone system using the latest G4 technology or (LTE);

73 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

. Expand and upgrade the optical access networks to include all remote areas of Missan . Provide international post services; raise awareness regarding postal services . Provide modern post approaches to all housing areas in the province . Implement the information transmission network . Rehabilitate old networks, increase the capacity of transmission devices . Encourage the electronic correspondence among government departments . Secure Direct International Telecommunication through Missan Telecommunication Directorate . Provide database of what for the government departments and private companies . Implement telephone exchange as well as new nets to include new areas . Replace the telephone exchanges for old networks . Provide citizens with phone and internet service – cell and land line . Prepare & rehabilitate old networks and the devises of capacity & transmit ions . Replace the telephone switchboards for old networks . Upgrade the telephone switchboards for old networks.

7. Healthcare

The planning, development, provision of the best level and quality of health service to citizens has significant long-term economic returns – in terms of sustaining and developing the available human resources, and in terms of ensuring supportive environment for businesses and investors – even though the operation of health services facilities as such is not-for-profit, and citizens do not bear the cost of most services. Thus, investment in health services (public, private) and developing public sector capacities in this regard is a major axis of socio-economic development. Health service in Missan is organised and overseen by the Directorate of Health in Missan.

There are a total of 6 hospitals in the province, distributed across 5 of the qadhas, 2 of which are located in Amara. The number of doctors they employ is 477, with a concentration of 76.7% in the two hospitals in Amara. The statistics registers two types of doctors in the hospitals - specialist doctors and non-specialist doctors. The proportion of the first type is 35%. The number of doctors increased slightly in the period 2013-2015 but in view of the fast-growing population the doctor per 10 000 patients is getting unfavourable. The number of nurses is 1 220, where 71% are again concentrated in the largest administrative centre. 75

The total number of beds in the hospitals is 1001, and the number of beds for patients in the hospitals is 84 less. The average hospitalisation of a patient was 2.22 days in 2013 and 2.16 days in 2014, which below the country’s average (of 2.55 days for each of the two quoted years). The beds’ usage rate was 57.9% in 2013 versus a 50.2% average for the country and 58.9 in 2014 versus a 56.7% average for the country.

The total number of Health Centres in Missan is 87, more or less evenly distributed across the districts on the territory of the province in accordance with the population distribution. Number of Primary Health Centres in the province is 33; of secondary health centres – 54.

According to the standards 1 hospital and 1 health centre should be provided to every 40 000 residents. Thus 26 hospitals should be functioning in the province, while they are currently 6. In 2015 none of the hospitals was specialised for paediatric diseases, child delivery or gynaecological problems, which is important in view of the demographic structure of the population. Per standards the health centres should be 108, while 57 exist, meaning the number should be doubled.

The proportion of the medical staff per 10 000 population is 15.0 doctors, 27.8 nurses and other medical staff, 15.9 dentists and 17.7 pharmaceuticals. These values are lower than the country’s averages. The number of doctors remains unchanged, while at the same time the population is growing and therefore the indicator values are decreasing. For the province as a whole the number of doctors corresponds to the number of medical centres. However, in quite a few of the districts the number of the doctors is smaller than the number of the centres. The average nursing staff at a medical centre is 8.4, the average for health professionals – 4.3 and again they are not balanced per district.

75All data in this chapter is from Directorate of Health in Missan - unless stated otherwise.

74 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

Table 25 Hospital indicators for Missan province, 2014 Administrative unit Hospitals (n) Doctors working at Nurse staff (n) Hospital beds Beds for patients in hospitals only (n) total (n) hospitals (n) Amara 2 343 866 703 676 Kumait Al-Mejar Al-Kabir 1 49 175 100 73 Al-Adl Al-Khair Qalat Saleh 1 23 71 72 52 Al-Azeez Al-Maimouna 1 13 48 75 74 Al-Salam Sayyed Ahmed Al-Rifaee Al-Kahla’a Al-Mashrah Beni Hashim Ali Al-Gharbi 1 19 60 51 42 Ali Al-Sahrqi Total 6 447 1220 1001 917

Table 26 Health centres in Missan province, 2015 Administrative unit Health Centres Main Health Secondary Health Doctors Nurse staff Health Professionals in total (n) Centres (n) Centres (n) (n) (n) Health Centres (n) Amara 27 18 9 38 326 170 Kumait 5 1 4 2 12 19 Al-Mejar Al-Kabir 8 3 5 8 82 50 Al-Adl 1 1 2 30 7 Al-Khair 1 1 1 9 2 Qalat Saleh 10 2 8 7 12 5 Al-Azeez 7 1 6 2 32 18 Al-Maimouna 8 1 7 2 26 17 Al-Salam 3 1 2 1 60 19 Sayyed Ahmed Al-Rifaee 1 1 1 3 Al-Kahla’a 8 1 7 14 54 33 Al-Mashrah 4 1 3 7 58 14 Beni Hashim 1 1 1 1 1 Ali Al-Gharbi 1 1 1 11 6 Ali Al-Sahrqi 2 1 1 15 9 Total 87 33 54 87 729 372

Table 27 Indicators of hospitals and health centres in Missan, 2015 Administrative unit Capita/ bed Capita/ doctor Needs: number of hospitals Needs: number of Health Centres (Hospitals) (Hospitals) according to the standard (a according to the standard (a health hospital for every 40 000 centre for every 100 000 persons) persons) Amara 764 1566 13 54 Kumait 1 4 Al-Mejar Al-Kabir 1091 2227 3 11 Al-Adl 1 2 Al-Khair 2 Qalat Saleh 807 2632 2 6 Al-Azeez 1 5 Al-Maimouna 693 3997 1 5 Al-Salam 1 4 Sayyed Ahmed Al-Rifaee 1 Al-Kahla’a 1 4 Al-Mashrah 1 3 Bani Hashim 2 Ali Al-Gharbi 616 1653 1 3 Ali Al-Sahrqi 2 Total 3971 12075 26 108

In spite of the relatively unfavourable indicators of hospital and health care, the population’s health condition indicators show more favourable data than the average for the country. The child mortality rate is significantly below the average, although they varied in the broad range of 1.8‰ to 13.1‰ in the period 2012-2014. The life expectancy is 74.2 – one of the highest in the country. The proportion of the population with chronic diseases

75 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS was 8,8% (2012), which is lower by 2.8 percentage points than the country average; the proportion of disabled was 2.7% (2012) versus an average of 3.7%.

Constraints . Poor coordination between the public and private sectors . Low number of healthcare centres in rural areas . Delays in the health insurance system . Low public awareness regarding healthy lifestyles.

Goals . Improved health condition of all citizens of Missan in the immediate and long run, based on health services that are in line with international standards with regard to availability and quality.

Means to achieve the goals . Develop the health sector infrastructure and increase the health services level in the city and countryside . Increase the number of health centres and clinics . Expand primary health care programmes . Expand maternal, child, pre-natal and natal care programmes . Develop emergency medical services . Develop the work of general health laboratories . Develop forensic medicine . Meet the province’s needs for medicine, medical supplies, and specialised medical centres . Develop and train medical and health staff; increase the number of women health staff; . Ensure sufficient specialised medical staff; . Develop a medical statistical system at the health centres; . As necessary to implement a full healthcare system, coordinate with MoH, the Parliament, Provincial Council, other government departments and organisations.

8. Education

The education sector in Missan has wide social and community importance, well beyond education attainment. E.g. the education sector employed 7.2% of all workers in 2013 and 8% of all workers in 2016. Every family in the province has at least 1 member involved in the sector as a student, teacher or other staff.

Education access in the province is among the higher in Iraq. E.g. in 2012, across levels, the student-to-teacher ratios were 18 total, 21 for boys and 16 for girls – higher in total and for girls than the average for Iraq. Also, with regard to education attainment, the overall dropout rates are lower and overall completion rates are higher than in Iraq on average.

Nevertheless, Missan scores very poorly on literacy. According to UN-Habitat, the province has the 2nd highest illiteracy rate among Iraqi governorates – ca. 31% total, and the highest youth illiteracy – 28%. Gender variation in favour of boys is pronounced. For 2012, literacy in the age group 12y+ is 68.5% total, 79.7% for men 76 and 57.8% among women. In 2012, in the age group 15y+, the dropout rate was 57.4% total, and as high as 69.4% among girls; while the completion of studies rate was only 14.1% total, 17.6% for boys and 7.4% for girls. The illiteracy rate correlates with the poverty rate.

Improving the performance of the system depends on improvement of all its different parts. In other words, effective education must be multi-channel, life long, learner centred, and based on the learner's capacity for continuous self-development.

Structure

The educational ladder in Iraq includes: preschool (kindergarten, ages 4-5); mandatory primary education from age 6 (graded 1-6); secondary education, including intermediate (grades 7-9) and preparatory school (grades 10- 12); and higher education (university, college, technical institute – min. 4 years).

76 UNDP (2014), Iraq HDR 2014, and UN-Habitat (2016), Indicators Technical Brief.

76 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

 Secondary preparatory schools are two types: (1) general secondary (academic track: sciences or humanities) and (2) vocational secondary (professional track: industry, agriculture or commerce).  Success on the national exam after grade 9 determines whether a student can enter (1) general secondary – which provide a track to higher education, or (2) vocational secondary school.  Success on the national exam after grade 12 determines whether a student can continue to higher education; of students in vocational tracks, only the top 10% can continue their education in technical colleges.

With regard to responsibility:  Pre-school, primary and secondary education service in Missan (incl. secondary vocational schools) is responsibility of the Missan Directorate of Education (DG Education, under MoE);  The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) directly oversees higher education institutions (HEIs) and allocates their budgets.

8.1. Pre-school education

The available capacity for early childhood education is insufficient and cannot yet result in quality care and education in habits, self-care and social skills, or effective adaptation to first grade. . In 2013, there were 4 operational nursery schools in Missan Governorate (private and public) – including 33 educational staff and 5 further staff. The number of children enrolled was 99; i.e. there was 1 teacher per every 3 children. . During the 2014/15 school year 32 kindergartens were operational (including 2 private ones), attended by 7970 children (233 in private kindergartens). This public-to-private kindergarten ratio is much higher than the national average. Notably, all the kindergartens are mixed gender, with fairly equal share of boys and girls, which means there is no serious lagging behind of girls at this stage of education. The number of teachers in the kindergartens is 284 (18 in private kindergartens).

The kindergarten figures appear to indicate an increase in the pre-school education capacity from 2011/12, when there were 20 kindergartens with 5544 students and 201 teachers. However: . The child-to-teacher ratio was 28.1 in 2014/15 (29.1 in public kindergartens), and 17.6 in 2011/12 – indicating a decrease in the capacity to provide quality service. . Moreover, the 2014/15 child-to-teacher ratio of 28.1 is higher than the national average of 23. . The average number of teachers per kindergarten is 8.9, which roughly corresponds to the national average. The average number of children per kindergarten, however, is ca. 250 total and 258 for public kindergartens – which is much higher than the national average. . The kindergarten service is located in Amara, where the majority of the population are concentrated. In four of the administrative units - Al-Khair, Al-Azeez, Sayyed Ahmed Al-Rifaee and Bani Hashim there are no kindergartens at all. . The number of children in a class varies very widely across qadhas and nahias. The maximum number of children in a class is 72, which is extremely large and ineffective in terms of quality of the care.

Above all, the total number of children in nursery schools and kindergarten is very small compared to all children in the age group 0-4 (177 802 in 2016). The proportion of children attending kindergartens is not more than 5% of all the children in the respective age. There is acute need to extend pre-school education: . The tradition in Iraq is that the children are brought up at home by their mothers and grandmothers. However, with the increasing need to integrate women into the labour force, the kindergarten and nursery infrastructure is insufficient and available staff are inadequate in number and training; . Expansion of early education is above all necessitated by the need for initial adaptation of the child to first grade. The children have to build the necessary habits of being involved in the educational process, use of training materials, respecting the school discipline, valuing education, etc. – which should help reduce drop-out rates.

Extending pre-school education must happen according to standards for the provision of services to the children (standard number of children per teacher, number of children in a group, area per child in the facility, etc.). On this basis the necessary number of kindergartens per administrative unit, the infrastructure can be developed in accordance with the identified needs.

77 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

Table 28 Pre-school education indicators for Missan province, 2014 Administrative unit Number of Number of Number of Number of Number of Child/ Child/ Child/ kindergartens children in teaching buildings classes kindergart class teacher kindergartens staff en Amara 19 5150 182 16 110 271 47 28 Kumait 1 196 19 1 7 196 28 10 Al-Mejar Al-Kabir 3 1075 20 3 15 358 72 54 Al-Adl 1 100 1 1 4 100 25 1 Al-Khair n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Qalat Saleh 1 130 5 1 4 130 33 26 Al-Azeez n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Al-Maimouna 2 210 9 2 8 105 26 23 Al-Salam 1 110 5 1 2 110 55 22 Sayyed Ahmed Al-Rifaee n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Al-Kahla’a 1 224 4 1 4 224 56 56 Al-Mashrah 1 60 5 1 3 60 20 12 Beni Hashim n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Ali Al-Gharbi 2 483 17 2 18 242 27 28 Ali Al-Sahrqi 1 150 6 1 4 150 38 25 Total 33 7888 273 30 179 239 44 29

8.2. Primary and secondary education

The situation with out-of-school children in the province causes anxiety. High dropout and low enrolment rates are linked constraints specific to education provision – as well as to a range of social and economic reasons77: . Infrastructure deficiencies include poor quality of school buildings, double shifts, overcrowded classrooms, and lack of school nearby/school located too far from home (especially for girls in rural areas) – coupled with lack of no conditions for studying at home, etc.; . Teaching/education performance deficiencies include inefficiency of teachers and their teaching methods, weakness in the effectiveness of the system for evaluating students, inappropriate school environment, lack of social integration activities (sports, arts, etc.); . Economic factors constitute at least 40% of the reasons for the high rate of dropout (working for the family, and inability of the family to bear education expenses); and poverty remains one of the most important obstacles standing in the way of school enrolment. While the children of wealthier households have better access to education and learning, the exclusion rates of poorer households ranges approximately between 10 times greater in the primary stage and five times greater in the lower secondary stage compared to the wealthy segment; . The cultural dimension is also an important factor (related to e.g. keeping girls from school and prioritising marriage). Early marriage is an important obstacle to the continuing education of Iraqi girls, especially at the beginning of the lower secondary stage; . Alarmingly, major factors include the growing lack of awareness about the importance of education, particularly girls’ education. The educational level of the mother is one of the most important factors hindering the enrolment of children (especially girls) in school; as such, more than one quarter of the daughters of illiterate mothers at the primary age and more than half of their daughters at lower secondary level are out of school. The exclusion rates notably decrease with the increase in the mother’s educational level; . An additional major factor is the negative attitudes of the youth towards education (unwillingness to complete education, related to disconnect between education and employment opportunities, low quality of education, low technology uptake in education, etc.).

Primary education

During the 2014/2015 school year, there were 668 primary schools in Missan: 27.5% for boys, 23.7% for girls and 48.8% mixed schools. The majority of primary schools are concentrated in Amara, where the largest share of the population in the province live. There are no administrative units without a primary school.

In the 2014/2015 school year, the number of primary education students was 208 008, of which 43.1% were girls. In comparison in the school year 2011/2012, there were a total of 174 864 students in primary schools

77 See UNDP (2014), Iraq HDR 2014 – based on youth survey data from 2009 and 2012; and MENA, Iraq Country Report on Out-of-School Children.

78 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS across the governorate – 99 358 boys and 75 506 girls (43.2%). At the primary education level, the number of boys in all the classes exceeds the number of the girls. In the higher grades the trend is toward reducing the number of girls at school, having in mind that demographically the portions of boys and girls are approximately equal.

The number of teachers at primary schools in the 2014/2015 school year was 13 204, of which 58.1% women. In comparison, in the 2011/2012 school year, there were 12 712 primary school teachers – 5286 male and 7426 female teachers (58.4%).

In the 2014/2015 school year, the average number of students per class was 32. The number of children per class varies widely across nahias – between 22 and as much as 103 in Al-Mejar Al-Kabir, which is exceptionally high and the children cannot receive the necessary attention. The data reveal an acute educational problem in Al-Mejar Al-Kabir, which necessitates immediate measures.

Standards should be set for the students in primary schools, such as a standard number of students per teacher, students per class, etc. The necessary number of primary schools should be determined on this basis for each administrative unit and the infrastructure should be developed in accordance with the identified needs.

Figure 20 Enrolment in primary schools (public, private, religious) for 2014/15 academic year (COSIT)

30000 28260 25000 22346 20949 19776 19933 20000 16613 16811 13715 14494 15000 13038 12705 9368 10000 5000 0 Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female First grade Second grade Third grade Fourth grade Fifth grade Sixth grade

Figure 21 Dropout from primary schools (public, private, religious) for 2011–2015 (COSIT)

2000 1583 1570 1422 1396 1483 1500 1166 1108 1166 1000

500

0 Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female 2012/2011 2013/2012 2014/2013 2015/2014

Table 29 Primary education indicators for Missan province, 2014/15 academic year Administrative unit Number of Number of Number of Number of Number of Pupil/ Pupil/ class Pupil/ primary pupils buildings classes teachers school teacher schools Amara 253 101608 152 3630 7130 402 28 14 Kumait 35 6443 23 183 510 184 35 13 Al-Mejar Al-Kabir 61 20358 40 198 1344 334 103 15 Al-Adl 13 5041 10 133 154 388 38 33 Al-Khair 9 3344 9 67 101 372 50 33 Qalat Saleh 41 10158 34 349 503 248 29 20 Al-Azeez 22 7059 21 143 203 321 49 35 Al-Maimouna 52 11730 44 327 679 226 36 17 Al-Salam 30 7228 29 232 358 241 31 20 Sayyed Ahmed Al-Rifaee 18 3097 18 134 195 172 23 16 Al-Kahla’a 29 7392 28 338 415 255 22 18 Al-Mashrah 37 6801 35 281 449 184 24 15 Beni Hashim 19 4012 18 123 212 211 33 19 Ali Al-Gharbi 35 9924 30 291 349 284 34 28 Ali Al-Sahrqi 24 4786 22 175 306 199 27 16 Total 678 208981 513 6604 12908 308 32 16

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Secondary education

During the 2014/2015 school year, secondary schools in the province were 191: schools for boys – 96, schools for girls – 70 and mixed schools - 25. The majority of the secondary schools are concentrated in Amara. There are no administrative units without a secondary school. In the same year, the number of secondary education students was 74 847, and the number of teachers 4294. The number of children per class was 48, but this varied widely across nahias – from 10 to as much as 56 in Amara.

In comparison, in 2011-2012 there were 141 secondary institutions in the governorate – with a total of 58 762 students and 3256 teachers – including: 67 intermediate schools with 24 445 students and 1419 teachers with an average of 36 students per class (minimum 17, maximum 65); 18 preparatory schools with 12 220 students and 469 teachers and 39 average of students per class (range 29-49); 56 high schools with 22 097 students and 1368 teachers with an average of 40 students per class (range 28-67).

During the 2014/2015 school year, the number of teacher training institutes was 4 and the number of enrolled students was 299, including 57.5% women. The total number of teachers in those institutions was 39, of which 38.5% women. In comparison, in the school year 2011/2012, the number of institutions was the same, but the number of students was 2.4 times larger and the share of women was 56.1%. The average students per class was 29 (range 24-35). No data exist of the last school year, but given the reduced overall number of students, we could assume that the average number of students in a class does not exceed 29.

Table 30 Secondary education indicators for Missan province, 2014/15 academic year Administrative unit Number of Number of Number of Number of Number of Student/ Student/ Student/ secondary students buildings classes teachers school class teacher schools Amara 98 47342 59 846 2422 483 56 20 Kumait 5 1750 5 50 94 350 35 19 Al-Mejar Al-Kabir 19 9210 10 206 454 485 45 20 Al-Adl 3 1196 3 124 64 399 10 19 Al-Khair 1 209 1 6 16 209 35 13 Qalat Saleh 7 4109 5 62 168 587 66 24 Al-Azeez 3 1404 3 33 88 468 43 16 Al-Maimouna 9 3602 4 83 192 400 43 19 Al-Salam 5 2503 4 58 101 501 43 25 Sayyed Ahmed Al-Rifaee 2 622 2 19 46 311 33 14 Al-Kahla’a 5 2397 2 60 117 479 40 20 Al-Mashrah 2 1013 2 27 75 507 38 14 Beni Hashim 2 490 2 15 27 245 33 18 Ali Al-Gharbi 4 2641 2 49 109 660 54 24 Ali Al-Sahrqi 4 1550 3 41 83 388 38 19 Total 169 80038 107 1679 4056 474 48 20

8.3. Vocational education

While a vocational secondary education track (trade, industrial, and agricultural) is available to those who do not pass the national exam, few students elect this option because of its poor quality and associated stigma. Problems driving low enrolment in and low quality of vocational education include: . Vocational education is seen as a second and dead-end option for students who fail national exams; . Incomplete development of national framework for certificates/qualifications, curricula and methods in TVET; . Uneven geographic availability of vocational specialisations; . Obsolete programmes and curricula, with little connect to technical developments in the job market; . Low quality of teachers, no vocational experience required of teachers; . Little/no practical training – also due to lack of equipment; . Outdated teaching methods and training equipment.

At the same time, in the governorate there is pronounced shortage of qualified technicians, mechanics, machine operators, workers prepared for the tourism sector, business administrators, etc., and there is need to boost entrepreneurship. Expanding vocational education (especially in coordination with trade unions and employers) would serve to (1) stimulate private sector development and investments in the province and (2) improve the relevance of education and returns on education (make it worth the while of students to remain in school). An employer-driven skills development vocational education provision can foster employment generation by

80 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS strengthening the ability of the province to respond to employer needs, to plan for development of new sectors of the economy and to improve productivity and innovation.

Table 31 Vocational education indicators (COSIT) Period Vocational training Students (n) Teaching staff (n) Drop-out students (n) institutions Male Female Total 2011/2012 14 2685 382 21 11 32 2012/2013 14 2759 392 13 15 28 2013/2014 14 2817 399 16 27 43 2014/2015 14 2334 401 27 11 38

8.4. Higher education

There are 3 universities imparting high education in Missan governorate:

. Al Amara city hosts the University of Missan. The university of Missan has the following colleges: College of Medicine, College of Science, College of Law, College of Administration and Economy, college of Basic Education, College of Education and College of Physical education. It has particularly strong Faculty of Engineering – including civil, electric, mechanical, communications, chemical, oil, geology and materials engineering, and management and economics for civil engineering programmes. There were plans to open new colleges in the academic year 2012/13 – College of Dentistry, College of Pharmacy, College of Nursing, College of Engineering and Agriculture College; . Missan branch of Al-Imam Alkadhim University from Bagdad; and . Missan branch of Imam Ja’far As Sadiq University. This university has two shifts: morning and afternoon classes. The sections available in Missan are Islamic sciences, law and history.

During the academic year 2014/2015 the number of students admitted in all universities, technical education commission and private colleges in the province was 2730, of which 58.8% women, and 100% were Iraqi. Number of students enrolled in universities, technical education commission and private colleges е 8483, from which 55.4% female and 100% Iraqi. 20% of the students attend evening university courses.

In 2011-12, the total number of students studying at all universities was 7473 – including 3937 students (1339 male and 2598 female students) enrolled at Missan University; 1382 students (921 male and 461 female students).at the Missan branch of the Imam Ja’far As Sadiq University had 1382 students (921 male and 461 female students); and 2154 students (1344 male and 810 female students) at the Missan branch of the Al-Imam Alkadhim University.

Constraints to developing the education sector in Missan . High share of illiterate persons in the province . Electronic illiteracy . High turn out of students . School buildings are insufficient in number and many are in a rather poor condition . An increasing student-to-teacher ratio due to increased enrollment . Shortage of specialised teachers . Motivation for enrolment in vocational schools is very low; . Weak ICT infrastructure and knowledge technology (laboratories in example) . Lack of services (esp. water, electricity, roads for some schools) and access to some rural schools. . Critical financial conditions in Iraq . Continuous increase in the deficit of school enrolment/school buildings . Absence of law to prevent pupils from dropping out of school . Diminishing attractiveness of school attendance . Weak awareness of the importance of educational certificate . No conditions for studying at home . No involvement of parents in school life . Low connect between HE and life/the labour market.

Goals . The education sector in Missan is an engine for economic and social development. Primary education is affordable for all children; the quality of secondary and higher education is according to high international standards; quality at all stages of education is improved.

81 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

Means to achieve the goals . Primary/secondary education and adult literacy:  Construct school buildings in the underserved areas;  Improve the education standard in provinces;  Improve teachers’ standards;  Improve educational materials;  Use new machines in education such as voice labs and science laboratories;  Build students’ ethics through education;  Build entertainment spaces for students in schools;  Increase the number of advisors in schools;  Develop the school activities;  Eliminate illiteracy;  Form media programs for schools for adults;  Building schools for adults  Increase the education capacity of the governorate  Increase the number of educated people  Increase the number of classrooms  Increasing schools numbers  Improve technology adoption in education  Improve the quality and relevance of vocational education; . Higher education:  Connect Universities to economic entities serving broad interest of the population  Increase the linkage between the university and society  Recommend undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate studies related to projects to serve the people in the province  Develop and train postgraduates to ensure continuous education  Increase physical capacity for higher education  Increase the amount of furniture (benches) in the big halls of the university  Continue to build the compound of new colleges  Enlarge the university by building new colleges  Develop higher education standards  Activate ISO policy to promote education quality to international standards and facilitate enrolment and education exchange  Improve the university service staff  Improve technology adoption in education  Update the material and increase the number of scientific and voice labs.

82 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

V. GOVERNANCE

1. Local governance bodies

The Law of Governorates Not Incorporated into a Region (Law No. 21 of 2008, as amended by Law 15 of 2010) calls for decentralisation of the government and the transfer of suitable ministerial functions to the provincial governments. The Second Amendment to Law 21 (2013) affects greater provincial self-determination. In all 14 governorates not incorporated into a region (and not otherwise subject to a constitutional dispute), Law 21 applies to governorate, qadha, and nahia councils. The Law and its amendments govern the rights and powers of local government bodies.  According to Article 1 of Law 21 (as amended by Law 15 of 2010), a governorate is “an administrative unit in its geographic boundaries consisting of qada’as (districts), nahiyas (sub-districts), and villages.”78  Per Article 2 of the Law, “The governorate council is the highest legislative and oversight authority within the administrative boundaries of the governorate and shall have the right to issue local legislation within the boundaries of the governorate [local laws, instructions, bylaws, and regulations to organise the administrative and financial affairs] so that it can carry out its affairs on the basis of the principle of administrative decentralisation and in a manner that would not contradict the Constitution and federal laws.” The Governorate Council is not under the control or supervision of any Ministry and it has independent finance.79  The governor is the highest executive head in the Governorate: “The governor shall be considered the highest-ranking executive officer in the governorate at the rank of a deputy minister as regards rights and service” (Article 24). The Governor is elected by the Governorate Council and exercises the powers vested in him by the Governorate Council.  On principle, the local councils of qadhas and nahias play the foremost role in determining the development needs and priorities for local development (see Chapter V.3 below).

2. Organisational structures of the Governorate and Provincial Council

The organigrams below (Figures 22-24) present the structure of the Governorate Administration, with added focus on the Financial Department, and the structure of the Provincial Council.

78 Official English translation: http://iraq-lg-law.org/ar/webfm_send/765. 79 Supreme Court Advisory Opinion No. 16 recognises the authority of governorate councils to raise local revenues.

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Figure 22 Structure of Missan’s Governorate Administration

Executive Council and Secretariat Governor Governor’s Office

Governor Assistant / Governor Assistant / Governor Assistant / Governor Assistant / General Directorate General Directorate Directorate of Advisory Board Investment Board Consultant Consultant Consultant Consultant of Education of Health Finance

Directorate of Directorate of Directorate of Directorate of Labor and Social Housing, Agriculture Youth and Sports Affairs Construction & Municipalities

Technical Deputy of Administrative Governor Deputy

Technical Sectors in Administrative the Province Section in the Province

Department Department of Department Department of Department Department of Department of Department of Department of Administrative Depending on of General Women of Performance Legal Affairs of Information Media and Audit and Citizens Affairs Contracts Units (qadhas the specificity of Planning Improvement Evaluation Technology Public Relations Internal Control and nahias) each province

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Figure 23 Structure of the Directorate of Finance, Missan Governorate

Directorate of Finance

Management of Staff Financial Organisation Financial Planning

Technical Issues Budget Preparation Expenses and revenues

Audit of Decentralised System Budget Movement Expenses

Audit of Plan Accounts Research and Information Federal Revenues

Local Revenues

Standardisation

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Figure 24 Structure of Missan’s Provincial Council

Provincial Council Chairman

Council Chairman Office Manager Council Library and Information Centre

Modernisation and Social Council Chairman Deputy Strategic Planning Unit Council Secretary Training and Development Centre Development Unit

Office Manager of Deputy of Council Chairman Administrative Affairs Manager

Members Affairs Office

Committees Motor Pool Finance and Accounting Human Resources Legal Affairs Public Relations

Health and Environment Councils Committee Follow up Committee Electrical Committee Committee Media Committee Citizen Affairs Office

Finance Committee Legal Committee Education Committee Anti-Corruption Committee Projects Committee Council Hospitality House

Follow up and Planning Agriculture and Irrigation Security Committee Sport Committee Services Committee Economic Committee Committee Committee

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3. Governorate budget

The Governorate budget is an important economic component as it provides Governorates with their future resources to foster socio-economic development. In 2012, 93.6% of the provincial budget resources of Missan Governorate were allocated to reconstruction projects.

Based on Article 44 of Law No. 21, the financial resources of the Governorate are comprised of the following: . Budget transfers from the federal government in accordance with the constitutional criteria – as sufficient to carry out its missions and responsibilities in accordance with its population and the degree of deprivation, so that balanced development of the different regions of the country is ensured. . Revenues accrued in the governorate – except those from oil and gas – including:  Revenues generated from the governorate services and investment projects;  Proceeds from taxes, fees and fines imposed in accordance with federal and local regulations in force within the governorates – incl. (1) taxes imposed by the Council on companies operating in the governorate in compensation for environmental pollution and damage caused to the infrastructure, and (2) half of the revenues accrued from border crossings;  Proceeds from the sale/lease of public assets – including rent land used by companies;  Donations and gifts that may be received by the governorate in a manner that does not contradict the Constitution and federal regulations; . Share of the revenues of local authorities. Local authorities must allocate a fair share of the revenues to their administrative units so that it is sufficient for the latter to carry out their missions and responsibilities in accordance with the governorate population.

The procedure of preparing the annual budget is as follows: (1) the Governor submits a draft budget for development of the province to the Council for approval; (2) the Council approves the draft budget depending on the plans submitted by the local councils to MoP; (3) the Governor has exclusive power to implement the approved budget; the Council is responsible for implementation monitoring; and (4) following audit by the Federal Audit Bureau, if needed, budget adjustments are carried out in the budget of the following year.

While Law 21 specifically empowers each province with the authority to “collec[t] taxes, fees, and fines pursuant to the applicable federal laws,” it allows the Governorate to create new sources of revenue and spend in on development in the region – specifically, the governorates can levy taxes and fees on local-level transactions.80

Oil and gas revenues are channelled to the provincial government through MoF on an annual basis (a.k.a. general operating funds). Per Article 43 of the 2010 Federal Budget Law, the Governorate is entitled to (1) transfer of amounts proportional to the barrels of crude oil extracted/refined and the cubic metres of natural gas produced; and (2) MoF allocation proportionate to tourism in the province.81

For 2012, Missan’s budget was ca. IQD 242 million per capita. This is 7% higher than the national average; lower than the average for the south-western governorates (higher than the budget for Thi-Qar and Wassit, but lower than this for Basra). This shows that the presence of productive oil fields allows a great financial opportunity for the development of the Governorate. Indeed, for 2012, the Government allocation to Missan from oil revenues was IQD 51 676 per capita – which is considerably higher (by 50%) than the national average.

4. Toward effective local governance

The citizens and administration of Missan agree that there is need to improve public governance in order to better respond to local needs, to provide better services and to reduce corruption. Improved local governance will reduce the burden on businesses thus improving the business and investment environment; it will reduce the waste of resources and help better target available resources; and it will generally help improve the quality of life of citizens and communities.

Overall there is need to increase administration efficiency, to activate administrative reform, increase transparency and accountability, and reduce administrative and financial corruption, to support the socio-

80 Pursuant to positions/ruling of Shura Council, Iraqi Federal Supreme Court and MoF with regard to implementation of Law 21. As long as the action to which the tax is levied does not have implications beyond the province borders, it is unlikely that the tax will be challenged at the federal level. 81 USD 1 per barrel extracted/refined; USD 1 per 150 m3 of gas produced; USD 20 per non-resident visitor to holy sites in the province.

87 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS economic inclusion of youth and women, to ensure social protection and safe environment for all citizens, and to promote social safety and security.

Issues with decentralisation and performance efficiency: . Weak Information Management System (IMS) at the Governorate . Inefficient decision making process . Inefficient HR processes.

Issues with regard to inclusion and social cohesion: . Lack of a comprehensive national policy for youth – resulting in insufficient positive impact of services provided to young people; . Weak performance and experience of specialised staff in the technical and administrative management of youth institutions; . High illiteracy and low education enrolment rates for women, especially in rural areas; . Lack of awareness of women’s rights; . Discrimination against women is a deeply influential cultural factor; . Weak role of women in economic activity – linked to the prevailing social culture in families, which affects negatively the professional status of women . Lack of coordination and integration between actors in the social sector and between the public and the private sectors; . Lack of an overall vision to promote social integration – and instead, dependency on (mostly) partial social policies and procedures.

Needs to improve administration efficiency: . Advance information management: IM has particular importance as Missan Governorate is introducing e- government system. This process started with UNDP support; it continues with governorate resources. Not introducing a new IMS would deteriorate governorate ability to perform timely and efficiently; . Reform local public administration and finance to fight corruption and improve public services; . Align with good governance principles and achieve administration reform; . Advance e-government; . Develop Information and Media sectors for more transparency and accountability; . Enforce the rule of law; . Use the modern office equipment and advanced techniques to obtain best work performance.

Needs to improve planning and coordination: . Put in place new system for monitoring projects that will ensure local governments’ cooperation; . Update the basic designs of cities; . Develop the capacities of staff; . Use the modern office equipment and advanced techniques to obtain best work performance.

Needs to improve security and safety: . Civil Defence:  Provide protection for human/financial resources and work (production and maintenance) processes;  Expand civil defence services to the entire province;  Promote civil defence performance and efficiency level; . Police:  Develop police sector and improve police performance;  Respect citizens and demonstrate interest in human rights;  Eliminate crime;  Advise citizens of security status;  React quickly to crimes;  Place controls on city entrances;  Know reasons for crimes;  Enforce laws on all levels of society;  Educate society;  Learn of occurrence of crimes quickly;  Build police database;  Activate the role of police by activating law.

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VI. SWOT ANALYSIS

The SWOT analysis is the basis for identifying the strategic objectives of the PDS. The SWOT analysis below identifies the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats with regard to ensuring basic services provision and socio-economic development.

Provide adequate and integrated infrastructure for citizens of Missan Strengths Weaknesses . Availability of raw materials for the construction of structures – cement . Unsatisfactory public services in quality and quantity industry, brick factories construction sand. . Poor information management . Availability of land necessary for construction of infrastructure. . Lack of competent local companies that would have capacity to implement large projects. . Availability of labor force in the province . Lack of self-financing for the establishment of infrastructure. . Income from oil industry (Petrodollar) . Lack of skilled staff that would maintain infrastructure. . Advantageous geographic location and stable security situation . Lack of a unified and comprehensive database to identify and present infrastructure needs. . Market demand (local and external) for local goods and services . The existence of slums and uncontrolled urbanisation . Investment Law No. 13 (2006) and its amendments facilitates investment and . Low operational investment and financial allocations for all types of basic services secures guarantees. . Outdated road network in need of rehabilitation and upgrading . University presence. . Frequent traffic congestions . Dependency on the Roads Directorate for key functions, incl. training of engineering /technical staff in project management and use of IT; equipment maintenance; repair of roads; GIS availability; etc.; . Insufficient electricity generation . Old electricity networks that cause frequent failures as well as . Lack of specialised staff in the electricity sector . Lack of mapping for older water and sewerage networks . Need to replace the old water networks and distribution lines to increase water pressure in new suburban areas . No water meters installed for houses, no water tank system used to pay for water . Abandoned water towers . Lack of cadres in some departments in the water sector (maintenance and collection) . Lack of equipment to track failure and leakage in the water network . Lack of adoption of modern technology in wastewater management Opportunities Threats . Central funding – utilisation of central budget . Low oil prices . Presence of international organisations . Citizens’ attitude in using public infrastructure – non-adequate social environment . Good investment environment for some infrastructure. . High population growth rate . Possibility for support from foreign governments . Scarcity of water resources. . Government initiatives to support economic infrastructure development . Lack of coordination between the relevant sectoral ministries . Weakness and failure of the banking sector to finance projects . Financial crisis repercussion in Iraq . Lack of improvement of legislation in the field of investment in infrastructure . Lack of responsiveness of ministries in providing permits and other documentation

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Achieve economic welfare and stimulate tourism Strengths Weaknesses . Conditions present for tourism development – ancient sites; multiple handicraft . Economic activities not spread equally across the province industries; conditions for marshland tourism . Low human resources capacity . The Governorate Administration has interest in developing the tourism sector . Inadequate environment for tourism – particularly with regard to nature and cultural tourism in marshlands . Availability of large and open land – this can be acquired and invested in (to . Lack of proper planning for marshlands development bring financial resources) in accordance with updated plans . Weak management of natural resources with regard to supporting the local economy . Government willingness to attract foreign investors and promote local investors . Weak application of IWRM principles and environmental protection; environmental degradation . Presence of oil industry . Lack of proper economic development services . Insufficient funds for capital investment . Slow strategic planning process . Non-responsive respective ministries, related to land distribution Opportunities Threats . Increasing number of working-age population, which presents an opportunity . Imbalanced territorial distribution of the population (mostly concentrated in city centres) for economic development . Poor social conditions and low level of economic development factor in emigration and in the marginalisation of certain . Presence of international organisations working in Missan groups . Possibility to invest in private businesses . Oil prices at world market . Possibility to establish a partnership between the university and the private . IQD exchange rate sector (consultant office, construction lab) – to help meet the needs of the . Potential local or international conflict labour market . Restoration of marsh ecosystems Ensure human development and social justice Strengths Weaknesses . Young and vibrant population . Society not developed to the satisfactory level . Increasing awareness among society of the importance of education and of . Low socio-economic integration of women and youth enrolling children in educational institutions . Lack of financial allocations and uncertainty about allocating funds which have negative impacts on the possibility of . A number of civil actors offer specialised trainings/courses, in collaboration with increasing human and technical resources the public sector and international organisations. . Interference of powers between the central and local government, which adversely affects the conduct of business. . Participation of university faculty in regional and international courses, seminars . Weak coordination between ministries and local governments and the intersection of directives and controls issued by and conferences both, which negatively affects the performance of the Governorate’s departments. . University placement strategy adopted to build graduates' capacities . Lack of financial allocations earmarked for education projects implementation . Increased awareness of importance of NGOs, particularly women organisations . Financial Crisis and stop the projects in the construction phase . Increased (but not sufficient) involvement of women in public matters . Weak government support for staff in terms of training, salaries and incentives, etc. . Multiplicity of regulatory bodies and political interventions Opportunities Threats . Possibility to increase the use of grants and international projects in the fields of . Interference of powers between the central and local government, which adversely affects the conduct of business. higher education and scientific research . Weak coordination between ministries and local governments and the intersection of directives and controls issued by . Presence of international organisations dealing with capacity building both, which negatively affects the performance of the Governorate’s departments. . Poor cooperation of the citizen with the municipality

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Establish full health coverage and sound environment Strengths Weaknesses . Availability of experienced medical, health, and administrative staff . Poor information management . Expansion of health services through establishing specialised centres and . Lack of coordination between public and private health institutions modern hospitals . Relative shortage of some sports and recreational facilities for young people . Availability of health service system systems and directions . Lack of awareness about environmental issues among citizens . Insufficient number of hospital buildings – many of which in poor condition Opportunities Threats . Cooperation between government and private health businesses . High level of pollution . Presence of international organisations and oil businesses that can assist . Poor nutrition habits among rural population government to improve public health service . Potential IDP crisis . Uncontrolled urbanisation

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VII. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

Based on the analysis made and the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats identified, five strategic objectives for the development of Missan Governorate in the period 2018–2022 have been elaborated, as follows.

Strategic objective 1: Adequate and integrated infrastructure provided for citizens of Missan

The objective responds to the identified need to develop the infrastructure in the province and to improve the quality of public services – in order to fully support the socio-economic needs of citizens to support human development. improve the quality of public services. Underdeveloped infrastructures restrict socio-economic development; they are it is linked to deprivation, exclusion and unequal opportunities which affect the social, economic and human development in the entire province. Problems connected to uncontrolled urbanisation particularly require development of public service provision in quantity as well as quality.

The local government aims to extend the infrastructure for all services – drinking water, sewerage networks, electricity distribution networks, telecommunications systems, schools, health institutions, sidewalks, pavement, waste collection, and required infrastructure maintenance, waste collection – in all areas of the province, according to global level of quality, and according to the effective laws. Developing human resource capacity in the different areas of public service provision is also needed. Solutions will require the involvement of the private sector and the commitment of significant resources.

Strategic objective 2: Economic welfare achieved and the tourism sector stimulated

The objective responds to the identified need to put to productive and sustainable use all resources available in the province for economic development – in order to eliminate unemployment and to achieve better economic status and well-being of citizens. There is an overall need to improve livelihoods opportunities in marshland areas; failure to do so affects the economy of the entire province.

Attaining the objective requires the development of key sectors, including through encouraging agricultural crops, establishment of free economic zones, and ensuring adequate environment for tourism and investment in tourism development – particularly nature and cultural tourism in marshlands. It also requires to strengthen the private sector, to increase PPPs and to strengthen the management of natural resources (NRM) with regard to supporting the local economy.

Most NRM issues are related to the oil industry and use of marshlands for tourism and development of agriculture. In agriculture, NRM is related to proper use of land and irrigation systems. NRM issues in Missan influence as well as reflect developments in surrounding provinces (Basra, Thi-Qar, etc.). The types of problems related to pollution are common in this part of Iraq. Thus, the establishment of a cross-sectoral and inter- governorate committee dedicated to improving NRM) is an important step in preventing further deterioration in environmental quality and loss of resources. Within the local economy, it is important to support enterprises/producers in dealing with natural resources (including sustainable use/management and pollution control); to promote the establishment of PPPs; to promote the use of proper irrigation, drainage and chemicals use in agriculture; to improve control of extracting industry; to increase the awareness and responsibility of enterprises with regard to environmental protection and sustainable resource management; etc.

Strategic objective 3: Human development and social justice ensured

The objective responds to the identified needs to support human development, to improve human capital, to support the full participation in society of vulnerable groups – particularly women, and to create gender balance. This requires improved education service and extended education access – e.g. development of basic programs and studies, improved capacities of staff in the education sector, improved methods of education and increased infrastructure for education and higher education, etc. Programmes are also needed to increase the inclusion and social integration of youth – specifically by increasing the infrastructure available for youth development and sports.

Strategic objective 4: Full health coverage established and sound environment promoted

The objective responds to the identified need to support human development through improved healthcare for citizens and improved environmental quality. Human, social and economic development and social justice all

92 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS require that citizens enjoy good opportunities for health regardless of where in the province they live. Therefore, it is necessary to extend healthcare service to all citizens – especially with regard to pre-natal care, natal care and childcare – including though improved healthcare service infrastructure and human resource capacity. Improving environmental quality is particularly important in the context of rapid urbanisation. Steps require inter alia to improve service provision with regard to water, wastewater management and waste management. Programmes may include cleaning residual explosive devices, planting forests to limit desertification and help purify the air, introducing technical solutions to control emissions from productive sectors, etc. Finally, with regard to promoting both health and clean/safe environment, it is important to increase as relevant the awareness among citizens and businesses – e.g. on the importance of vaccinations, of wastewater management, etc.

Strategic objective 5: Government integrity and effectiveness achieved and community security achieved

Good governance is a horizontal priority objective: the achievement of all other strategic objectives for development of the governorate depends on the quality of public governance. The quality of governance is reflected in the organisation structure of the Administration; the capacity for effective information management and data analysis, prompt work and effective decision-making; the capacity to train and provide the necessary number of experts in the different sectors; the preparation of effective legislation; the provision of the necessary technical equipment and facilities; as well as the provision of the necessary financial resources. Good governance also provides an opportunity to introduce and implement new and modern approaches to managing individual priority sectors. Finally, in the context of democratic decentralisation, good governance is inclusive governance – in that it supports the development of all groups and communities and ensures protection for vulnerable groups.

The local government has already started taking steps to activate administrative reform, increase transparency and accountability, and reduce administrative and financial corruption. Specifically, the Government aims to complete the process of introducing an e-government system – including possibly through private sector involvement. Programmes are required to build the administration capacity in this regard. Additionally, programmes are required to promote community security in a way that guarantees the rights of all in accordance with the principles of justice for all, as well as programmes to support the full participation in society of youth and women. Attaining the objective with require financial as well as human resources to be developed .

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VIII. PROGRAMMES (PRIORITY AREAS FOR DEVELOPMENT)

The following programmes are outlined on the basis of the SWOT analysis and the identified strategic objectives (above), with attention to interventions in areas where the Governorate has the authority to implement specific projects and activities.82

1. Programme 1: Rehabilitate and improve the transport network

Rationale

The transport sector is concerned with the provision, maintenance and safety of public roads/streets, bridges, intersections and tunnels, and the regulation of their use. Improvement and rehabilitation of the existing road network and associated rural road networks will increase safety, reduce transport costs and stimulate economic activity across sectors (e.g. tourism), and increase access to all parts of the province.

Critical strategic issues: . Outdated existing road network in need of rehabilitation . Frequent traffic accidents . Dependency on the Roads Directorate for key functions – including e.g. training of engineering and technical staff in project management and use of IT, equipment maintenance, repair of roads, GIS availability, etc. . Ineffective regulation of maximum speed and permissible weight of vehicles.

Vision

Improved and rehabilitated street, road and bridge network, with increased capacity and safer streets for citizens.

Specific objectives: . Specific objective 1: Pavement and tiling of streets/sidewalks is improved in new and affected urban areas . Specific objective 2: Road connectivity is improved between governorate, qadha and nahia centres.

Attainment of Specific objective 1 will result in increased safety for citizens in urban areas, decreased number of traffic incidents (and deaths) involving cars and pedestrians, and improved traffic flow through city centres – with beneficial economic effect. Specific objective 2 aims to increase the capacity of roads connecting cities, districts and villages with purpose to respond to increased traffic and to address road traffic accidents.

Strategic objective 1: Adequate and integrated infrastructure provided for citizens of Missan Programme 1: Rehabilitate and improve the transport network Specific objective1: Pavement and tiling of streets/sidewalks is improved in new and affected urban areas Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Street . Provide pavement and tiling of the streets and sidewalks in qadhas and Investment improvement 1 nahias (Al-Mejar Al-Kabir, Qalat Saleh, Al Maimouna, Ali Al Gharbi, Al Khaala, Al Morah, Al Salam, Al Azir) 2 Technical/ Street . Improve the pavement/tiling of streets (Ali Al-Sharqi, Kite) Investment improvement 2 3 Technical/ Street . Improve the pavement/tiling of streets (Al-Mashrabh, Al-Salam , Justice, Al- Investment improvement 3 Azir, Al-Khair, Sayed Ahmad Al Rifai) Specific objective2: Road connectivity is improved between governorate, qadha and nahia centres Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ New roads . Expand road networks in order to remove congestions and ensure proper Investment development traffic flow between settlements; . Build alternative roads across the Province.

82 The programmes are indicative. The final list will of projects implemented will depend on availability of resources, the PDS implementation plan, and on projects feasibility determined in the course of PSD implementation. Another source for further programme development is the list of Goals and Objectives by Sector and Department. 94 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

2. Programme 2: Improve the electricity service

Rationale

The electricity infrastructure in Missan suffers from severe damage (going back to the Gulf War), underinvestment and a lack of equipment.

The geographical distribution is not sufficient to ensure quality level of the supplied energy. There is a 400kV backbone running from north to south of the Governorate that connects Missan with Wassit (north) and Basra (south), with the substation of 400 kV located in Amara. The east and west areas of the Governorate are not well served by major backbones.

The peripheral areas of the territory (east and west) are the less populated and include most of the villages without connection to the public network. The total amount of villages connected to the public network have a delivery time of energy equal to 10 hours a day (in the remaining hours are generally used private generators, but we have no data regarding this parallel market). The percentage of villages not served is around 5 %.

The proper and effective delivery of energy in the province depends on the extent of 400 kV and 132 kV distribution, not on the local distribution. The periodical lack of electrical energy is due to limited production and the (limited) capacity of high voltage lines to carry power, involving the national grid.

Critical strategic issues: . Insufficient electricity generation; . Greatly overused electricity network (stations, transmission lines, etc.) – with negative impact on the stability of the electric power supply, causing frequent failures and waste of manpower and financial resources; . Deficit of specialised staff in the electricity sector.

Vision

Continuous and stable supply of electrical power supports in full the needs citizens, public institutions and businesses and ensures prosperity and sustained socio-economic development. Energy supply from alternative energy sources and reduced power consumption support both the economic efficiency and the good environmental quality in the province.

Specific objectives: . Specific objective 1: Power distribution sector is privatised . Specific objective 2: Alternative energy sources are developed . Specific objective 3: Power consumption is controlled.

Attainment of Specific objective 1 will make distribution system more efficient and will ensure proper maintenance in order to avoid shortages. Attainment of Specific objective 2 will support the stability of power supply and diversify power production sources; the main idea is to use solar energy since number of sunny days in the province justify investment in this technology. Specific objective 3 is aimed at improving the measurement and collection of fees for use of the electricity supply network; this should motivate people and the industry to reduce their electricity consumption by purchasing modern electrical equipment with low energy consumption.

Strategic objective 1: Adequate and integrated infrastructure provided for citizens of Missan Programme 2: Improve the electricity service Specific objective1: Power distribution sector is privatised Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Research Improve power . In order to go into PPPs, the Governorate will need to take the decision and Study/ distribution networks to privatise the distribution of electricity in the province and prepare Legislation through privatisation and adopt legislation for privatisation. 2 Technical/ Initiating and completing . The Government will make selection of networks that will be offered for Investment, the privatisation of privatisation and ensure that privatisation is done according to law. This PPP electricity distribution project will ensure efficiency and effectiveness of power distribution.

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Specific objective2: Alternative energy sources are developed Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Establishment of . Allocate land for establishing alternative energy plant – in order to Investment, alternative energy plant improve use of alternative energy (solar, wind) PPP . Secure investment . Government will select the best technology for establishing alternative power production . Introduce process of establishing alternative energy sources . Ensure use of alternative energy supply 3 Awareness Promoting the use of . Organise a number of activities to promote the use of alternative alternative energy energy sources among the population and enterprises Specific objective3: Power consumption is controlled Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Awareness Promoting efficient . Advocate for careful use of energy by organising and conducting an energy use awareness campaign in collaboration with CSOs among the population and businesses. 2 Technical/ Removing bottlenecks in . Install additional transformer stations to increase voltage of distribution Investment providing electricity to network in suburban areas and new settlements. citizens 3 Technical/ Extension of power lines . Design new lines/specify line paths in coordination with local Investment government departments and start construction of new lines.

3. Programme 3: Extend and improve the water supply service

Rationale

In most parts of Middle East water has strategic importance - drinking water particularly. Missan does not have the same problems as desert areas (like Anbar) due to presence of marshlands water management remains a problem for decades. In Missan, the challenges are to secure the sustainability of water resources, to manage the complex water infrastructure, and to bridge the gap in water supply in quality and quantity. The quality and efficiency of water services need to be upgraded to near standard levels, particularly in terms of quality.

Critical strategic issues: . Coverage of water service . Quantity of supplied drinkable water per person . Quality of supplied water per person . Level of measurement of quantity of water for subscriptions . Continuation of service . Level of handling citizens’ complaints . Lack of ground water tanks and pump stations . Lack of specialised equipment . Lack of staff capacity in some departments (maintenance and collection).

Vision

Drinking water is delivered to all citizens, and technical water for businesses is distributed to all business areas, following high international standards in quality and quantity.

Specific objectives: . Specific objective 1: Increased quantity and quality of supplied water to achieve standards . Specific objective 2: Improved capacity for water resource management.

Specific objective 1 responds to increased need for drinkable water across governorate. Due to high salinity of underground water it is necessary to improve quality of processed water. Although some governorate officials believe that Missan citizens will never be able to drink water from pipes there is consciousness of necessity to work on water quality. Specific objective 2 responds to the need to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of

96 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS water resource management, particularly in light of uncontrolled urbanisation and, consequently, increased demand. There is still discussion what kind of system governorate should apply in the future – to use water tanks and gravity pressure or to increase number of pump stations to ensure proper pressure.

Strategic objective 1: Adequate and integrated infrastructure provided for citizens of Missan Programme 3: Develop the water supply service Specific objective1: Increased quantity and quality of supplied water to achieve standards Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Cleaning and . Carry out cleaning and rehabilitation of the Tigris River and its Investment, NRM rehabilitation of the branches within Missan in order to improve groundwater Tigris River quantity/quality, decrease salinity and pollution. 2 Technical/ Installation of new . Increase material stock necessary for planned construction Investment pipeline network . Supply the Water Resources Directorate with pipes lining 8 inch 1500 meters and 1000 meters diameter 10 inch 3 Capacity building/ Drilling project . Purchase and provide the Water Resources Directorate with special Investment drilling equipment - American machine type 50 k speed star. Specific objective2: Improved capacity for water resource management Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Capacity building/ Purchase of . Purchase and provide specialised machinery and vehicles/field cars Investment machinery for use by the water resource services. 2 Capacity Building Trainings for Water . Plan, organise and carry put a series of capacity-building trainings and Directorate staff workshops for Governorate staff in order to familiarise them with new water management practices.

4. Programme 4: Develop the wastewater management service

Rationale

The sector includes the collection, treatment and management of wastewater from homes, industrial, commercial, educational and other areas, and runoff. The sector is of great importance for human health, quality of life, food safety, water availability. It is also important economically – e.g. as it serves to limit and mitigate environmental degradation, and as it helps improve the conditions for development of agriculture and industry (through water reclamation). The sector is run by the Sewerage Directorate under MoCHMPW.

A key problem is the widespread shortage of sewerage service in urban areas due to the negligence and apathy of the old regime and the high costs and maintenance needs.

Addressing the evident gaps in the sector requires critical policies – e.g. with relevance for environmental protection. A new institutional framework should be established to manage the sector efficiently and effectively and as integrated with other sectors. There is need to develop the technical and managerial capacities of staff in the sector, as well as to increase awareness among the population to ensure their support to efforts to attain the standards of the service.

Critical strategic issues: . Lack of sewerage network coverage of cities . Depreciated and damaged sewerage network (e.g. cracks and leakages) . Poor maintenance and operation of treatment plants . Outdated wastewater treatment methods . Lack of electronic control system to control the operation of pump stations . Areas of coverage exist outside sewerage network maps – due to missing data there is need for mapping of old networks . Need for capacity building of governorate staff to deal with waste management.

Vision

Sewerage systems, drainage water systems, wastewater treatment plants operate in accordance with national environmental standards.

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Strategic objectives: . Specific objective 1: Sewage and rainwater sewer networks expanded . Specific objective 2: Capacity of administration and staff in the wastewater sector increased . Specific objective 3: Wastewater management system performance and revenue improved.

Specific objective 1 responds to the need to identify and rehabilitate the old sewer networks, as well as extend the sewer system and modernise treatment plants and methods. Attainment of Specific objectives 2 and 3 will contribute to improved measurement and collection of charges for use of the wastewater network, improved human resource and administration capacity, improved performance, and improved revenue in the sector.

Strategic objective 1: Adequate and integrated infrastructure provided for citizens of Missan Programme 4: Develop the wastewater management service Specific objective1: Sewage and rainwater sewer networks expanded Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Extension of sewage . Design and construct new sewage collection and processing systems Investment sewer networks for newly populated areas . Provide sewage sewer networks for underserved areas. 2 Technical/ Extension of runoff sewer . Design and construct new runoff drainage systems in urban areas. Investment networks 3 Technical/ Establishment of WWTPs . Design and establish new wastewater treatment plants in non- Investment serviced areas – new urban settlements. Specific objective2: Capacity of administration and staff in the wastewater sector increased Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Capacity Capacity building of . Organise trainings and workshops to train staff in the design, planning building maintenance staff and maintenance of sections, and the implementation of new technologies. Specific objective3: Wastewater management system performance and revenue improved Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Improving the technical . Provide backup materials and tools for the operation management of investment capacity in the treatment and drainage plants wastewater sector . Improve the technical capacity of departments.

5. Programme 5: Improve access to and quality of communications

Rationale

The provision of public communications services across the province includes the exercise of competences by the governorate departments – above all the IT Department and other departments – in dealing with information management. Continued effort is necessary to develop the technical and human resource capacities in information management of governorate institutions and staff in order to increase efficiency and effectiveness of government institutions.

Critical strategic issues: . Lack of information management skills in government institutions . Lack of proper information management tools (databases and IT systems) . Need to establish and update the governorate database . Lack of coordination of information collection and distribution . Need to provide citizens with sound communication systems.

Vision

Citizens of Missan are using modern and efficient means of communication. Internet providers establish sustainable and affordable networks that improve communication across the province and with the outside world. Developed information management services support the efficiency and effectiveness of government institutions.

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Specific objectives: . Specific objective 1: Communication services developed . Specific objective 2: Maintenance ensured for existing communication networks . Specific objective 3: New communication networks established.

Specific objective 1 responds to the need to improve the access to information by the government and citizens. Specific objective 2 is aimed to contribute to improving the technical capacity of information system. Specific objective 3 is aimed to increase capacity of institutions to manage information.

Strategic objective 1: Adequate and integrated infrastructure provided for citizens of Missan Programme 5: Improve access to and quality of communications Specific objective1: Communication services developed Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Capacity Introducing new . Introduce new information management systems to support the work of building information government institutions in the province; management systems . Build staff capacity in using communication systems, IT databases, digital documents and information management practices; . Provide training for staff in contemporary communication techniques. 2 Capacity Building of new IT . Build new IT infrastructure across the province in order to increase building, infrastructure and capacity to collect and distribute information needed for efficient Technical/ systems functioning of government institutions Investment . Install proper IT systems in all government institutions. Specific objective2: Maintenance ensured for existing communication networks Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Capacity Establishing of proper . Train teams of technical experts and provide them with high quality tools building networks to maintain existing and future communication networks; maintenance system . Create mobile teams that will take responsibilities for maintenance of existing networks. Specific objective3: New communication networks established Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Expanding the . In cooperation and coordination with private sector, design and build new Investment, communication communications infrastructure in the province according to needs PPP network assessment.

6. Programme 6: Develop the tourism sector

Rationale

The tourism sector stands to play a major role in supporting the local economy and jobs creation in Missan Governorate. While a number of sites present excellent potential for tourism, the tourism sector here is at an early stage of development. Development of the sector requires to strengthen PPPs and make them more effective – by setting ambitious sector growth targets and identifying specific activities for implementation in order to: optimise the contribution of the tourism sector to economic, social and cultural development; the success of tourism institutions; and the preservation of natural wealth (specifically the marshlands), cultural heritage and archaeological sites. Such activities would allow Missan to take a place on the national and international map as a distinct tourist destination.

Critical strategic issues: . Low awareness regarding the opportunities in and value of tourism among citizens of the governorate . Lack of understanding of importance of preserving the marshlands . Lack of human capital in the governorate to ensure the maintenance and preservation of the marshlands . Lack of organisational structure necessary to promote the tourism sector in the governorate . Weak tourism services.

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Vision

A developed tourism sector in Missan capitalises fully on the wealth of cultural, historical and nature assets of the governorate, while it contributes to a diversified and resilient economic growth, jobs generation and private sector development. Resilient and sustainable environment supports the development of tourism.

Specific objectives: . Specific objective 1: Missan promoted to the level of tourist destination . Specific objective 2: Qualified workforce developed in the tourism industry . Specific objective 3: Awareness of tourism as economic and social component of society increased . Specific objective 4: Tourism infrastructure developed in line with present and future needs.

The attainment of Specific objective 1 will support the establishment of tourism in the marshes as a sustainable and important part of the overall economic development of the province. Specific objective 2 responds to the need for human resource development in the sector. Specific objective 3 responds to the low public awareness of tourism as a viable economic alternative. Under Specific objective 4, technical preconditions for development of the tourism sector will be provided.

Strategic objective 2:Economic welfare achieved and the tourism sector stimulated Programme 6: Develop the tourism sector Specific objective1: Missan promoted to the level of tourist destination Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Research Scientific . Build and technically establish a Research Centre for biological and and Study development of the environmental development at Missan University – in order to ensure marsh environment proper and regular production of qualified staff to run activities in the marshlands sector. A Research Centre is planned to be organised according to UNESCO. 2 Research Preparation of . Set up scientific research projects on the flora and fauna in the marshes – and Study scientific research to provide special research to use it in support of sustainable industry, agriculture and tourism development. Specific objective2: Qualified workforce developed in the tourism industry Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Capacity Multi-sectoral . Develop curriculum at Missan University in accordance with the results of building capacity of research studies, in order to create interdisciplinary capacity to deal with marshland activities different aspect development in the marshlands – including tourism development. Specific objective3: Awareness of tourism as economic and social component of society increased Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Awareness Promoting tourism . Plan, organise and carry out information campaign in the province – as a valuable socio- including special materials developed and events organised – to educate economic citizens and potential visitors about the touristic sites in Missan, and to component increase awareness among the population of career opportunities in the sector. Specific objective4: Tourism infrastructure developed in line with present and future needs Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Constructing a . In order to encourage tourism in the marshes and facilitate movement pool Investment marina for boats in boats, establish marinas taking in consideration environmental demands. Hor Al Huweiza . Support the establishment of economic activities related to tourism.

7. Programme 7: Strengthen the agriculture sector

Rationale

The area of the arable land in Missan is 257 km2, i.e. only 39% of the total area of Missan province, but only 18% of this land is actually cultivated – mainly due to poor irrigation management, absence of soil drainage and high salinity of soils. Infrastructure in the sector has suffered during the Iran-Iraq War, it has not been developed and the state has not provided the sector in the province with basic services. Pre-1991, the marshlands played a 100 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS major role in agriculture as they covered two-thirds of the province area, encouraging agriculture, fishing and fish culture. However, after 1991, agriculture and fishing in the marsh areas deteriorated.

Currently, agriculture is based mainly on the cultivation of wheat, barley, vegetables and some fruits for daily consumption. Palm orchards are concentrated near the Tigris banks.

Irrigation is based essentially on water pumped from the Tigris (95%) and dependence on rainfalls is minimal. Water wells are concentrated in the north-east and southeast, towards the Iranian border, where abundant and generally good quality ground water may be found. Being primarily a pastoral area, it is used for watering stock and other agricultural requirements where surface water is not available. At least 38 wells were drilled in the 1970s, but the programme of resource development was stopped by the Iraq-Iran War.

Poor living standards and shortage of in-kind assistance for farmers are among the main reasons for their migration to cities.

Critical strategic issues: . Low productivity and competitiveness – need for knowledge-based agriculture . Low storage capacity . Weak investment environment . Poor irrigation network, low irrigation capacity. . Low private sector involvement . Insufficient human resources . Urbanisation.

Vision

Developed agricultural sector – based on sustainable agriculture production – effectively contributes to eliminating food insecurity, poverty and economic disparities in the province; it helps increase the living standards in rural areas; it contributed to jobs creation; while it also ensures the preservation of non- renewable resources (soil and water).

Specific objectives: . Specific objective 1: Sustainable food security in the province . Specific objective 2: Improved irrigation systems, dams and regulation . Specific objective 3: Pollution caused by extensive use of pesticides/herbicides eliminated . Specific objective 4: Industrial, commercial and investment projects developed based on agriculture sector outputs.

Specific objective 1 responds to the need to increase local production in order to create a balance between imported and locally produced agricultural products. Attainment of Specific objective 2 will result in improved irrigation systems. Specific objective 3 responds to extreme pollution of agricultural lands by uncontrolled use of pesticides and herbicides. Attainment of Specific objective 4 will help replace atomised production in the sector with intensive agriculture, while also increasing the role of the private sector and jobs creation in the sector. Work under all four specific objectives will help raise productivity and competitiveness in the sector, as well as raise the living standards of workers in the sector and increase its attractiveness.

Strategic objective 2: Economic welfare achieved and the tourism sector stimulated Programme 7: Strengthen the agriculture sector Specific objective1: Sustainable food security in the province Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Reclamation of . Increase arable areas – specifically by bringing into production Investment, NRM agricultural lands agricultural lands adjacent to the marshlands (to benefit from the Ramsar Convention for Food Security). 2 Technical/ Establishment of . Ensure that land designated as potential oil fields is accessible for Investment, NRM green belt potential agricultural production . Establish agricultural land outside industrial zones.

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Specific objective2: Improved irrigation systems, dams and regulation Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Research & Study / Elaboration of . In coordination with HEI, conduct research on the use of irrigation NRM programme for methods and techniques appropriate to the nature and quantities development of the of water resources in Missan Governorate and analysis of best irrigation network practices for their management. through modern and . Elaborate a programme for development of the irrigation system sustainable methods through optimal methods and techniques 2 NRM, Technical/ Implementation of . Plan and implement projects for the use of proposed irrigation investment projects for methods (see 1 above) – to support farmers and promote the sustainable irrigation development of agriculture through modern irrigation methods Specific objective3: Pollution caused by extensive use of pesticides/herbicides eliminated Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 NRM / Research Seed security crop . Develop and select techniques that do not require extensive use and Study production of herbicides and pesticides. Specific objective4: Industrial, commercial and investment projects developed based on agriculture sector outputs Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Storage development . Rehabilitate and develop storage complexes – include add cooling Investment storages – in order to improve the storage capacity of crops, vegetables and fruit products. 2 Technical/ Legal support for . Provide agricultural producers with legal assistance Investment, agricultural producers . Ensure technical support and providing physical spaces for legal Protection activities assistance. 3 Technical/ Support to poultry . Support the establishment of building poultry and egg production Investment, PPP production farms . Create value chain services . Secure investment in chicken farms 4 Technical/ Eastern forests . Ensure and support the rehabilitation of the forests of Ali Al- Investment rehabilitation Sharqi, Ali Al-Gharbi, Al-Reem Reserve and Al-Maimouna.

8. Programme 8: Encourage investment and industry development

Rationale

Investment is a driving force for development, driving up competitiveness, trade, productivity and economic diversification. Promoting investment opportunities is bound with creating an active business environment in the governorate, improving the investment climate, introducing benefits, incentives and guarantees, and ensuring the appropriate facilities and human resources. Successful investments generate multiple benefits – for the beneficiary, investors, society and the country development priorities.

The investment process is regulated by Investment Law No. 13 (2006) and its amendments. Governorate Investment Agencies – the only official bodies concerned with the management of the portfolio of investments in governorates – are responsible for the implementation of this law. As such, they are responsible for identifying and promoting the comparative advantages of each governorate – be they geographical location, natural resources, land, groundwater, etc. – which underlie investment cooperation to achieve the development vision for the governorate. Attracting capital to implement plans that support economic and social development, in turn, contributes to raising the standard of citizens in the governorate.

In Missan, industry and manufacturing are crucial economic drivers to express the potential of the non-oil economy in Iraq. The crumbling infrastructure and a lack of investment however are hindering industrial development. Many industrial factories have fallen behind global manufacturing standards. Weak utilisation and management of natural resources with regard to supporting the local economy is another hindrance. Finally, Missan is not crossed by the main transportation infrastructure of the country (both rail and highway).

Missan has a substantial opportunity in regard, given its crucial position as one the main potential “commercial door” with Iran. These factors combine to create the potential for a leading industrial power among southern Governorates. Also, the Governorate’s industrial sector could potential leverages on the diverse natural

102 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS resources (e.g. oil and its derivatives) and the needs of infrastructure and housing re-construction. Finally, Missan has fewer medium/large businesses and more micro businesses than the Iraqi average – meaning there is an overall problem with scaling up of enterprises, which requires the development of good business climate, technology adoption, human capital development and, at bottom line, investment.

Critical strategic issues

At the local level, problems regarding investment and industry development that can be overcome through joint coordination between the relevant authorities can be summarised as follows: . Weakness of the local investment agency – evidenced by the difficult/unclear procedures for granting investment licenses and the weak marketing of investment opportunities; . Existing problems with land allocation for investment projects – complex procedures at government departments, tribal problems and restrictions related to potential oil fields; . Weak qualification of staff employed in the investment sector – regarding e.g. preparation of maps for investment projects, preparation of feasibility studies, use of effective marketing methods or promotion process, etc.; . Lack of skilled staff and poor qualification of technical staff in the industrial sector; . Weak follow-up process for the granted investment licences.

Vision

A competitive and diversified industry, which is not reliant only on oil production.

Specific objectives:

. Specific objective 1: Investment promotion developed and investment procedures simplified . Specific objective 2: Suitable environment provided for industry expansion . Specific objective 3: Infrastructure provided for industrial areas and industrial and private businesses.

Specific objective 1 is aimed at overcoming the low capacity in preparing, marketing and promoting investment opportunities. Specific objective 2 responds to problems with the local investment environment and allocation of land for investment projects. Specific objective 3 is focused on building and improving economic infrastructure necessary for industrial production.

Strategic objective 2: Economic welfare achieved and the tourism sector stimulated Programme 8: Encourage investment and industry development Specific objective1: Investment promotion developed and investment procedures simplified Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Capacity Building Establishment of . Introduce governmental coordination body that will ensure efficient Investment Agency promotion . Design investment campaigns 2 Technical/ Establishment of . Establish OSS in each municipality and district in order to facilitate Investment, one-stop shops investment activities, land allocation and obtaining of permits. Capacity building Specific objective2: Suitable environment provided for industry expansion Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Support for industry . Establish legal and technical bodies embedded to departments that Investment, needs will ensure fast response to investment demands Capacity building . Ensure proper support for industry needs Specific objective3: Infrastructure provided for industrial areas and industrial and private businesses Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Extending of . Expand existing and build new infrastructure: create and construct Investment economic economic development infrastructure (water, sewerage, power and infrastructure roads) that will be suitable for new investments.

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9. Programme 9: Improve health services quality and access

Rationale

In spite of the relatively unfavourable indicators of hospital and health care, the population’s health condition indicators show more favourable data than the average for the country. The child mortality rate is significantly below the average, although they varied in the broad range of 1.8‰ to 13.1‰ in the period 2012-2014. The life expectancy is 74.2 – one of the highest in the country. The proportion of the population with chronic diseases was 8,8% (2012), which is lower by 2.8 percentage points than the country’s average; the proportion of disabled was 2.7% (2012) versus an average of 3.7%.

As in all of Iraq, the health service system in Missan is based predominantly in public hospitals. The contribution of the private sector is limited to a small number of hospitals that provide services at relatively high costs. This puts pressure on institutions, as the state should monitor the large amounts of health services provided by the state through legislative frameworks to ensure the health rights of the members of society. However, competition between private and public health institutions is present. The issue is with the quality of public services, which is low, and with the fact that many medical workers are attending public hospitals during one shift, usually morning and then switch to private business.

Critical strategic issues: . Poor coordination between the public and private sectors . Low number of healthcare centres in rural areas . Delays in the health insurance system . Need for promoting healthy lifestyles.

Vision

Improved health condition of all citizens of Missan in the immediate and long run, based on health services that are in line with international standards with regard to availability and quality.

Specific objectives: . Specific objective 1: Health sector infrastructure developed and the level of health services increased in urban and rural areas . Specific objective 2: Needs with regard to medicines, medical supplies and specialised medical centres met . Specific objective 3: Emergency medical services developed.

Specific objective 1 responds to the insufficient healthcare infrastructure, and the poor coordination between the public and private service provision. Specific objective 2 responds to need of urban and rural parts of the province for proper health coverage. Specific objective 3 is aimed at increasing emergency response to medical needs.

Strategic objective 4: Full health coverage established and sound environment promoted Programme 9: Improve health services quality and access Specific objective1: Health sector infrastructure developed and the level of health services increased in urban and rural areas Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Establishment of primary . Increase health coverage in underserved urban and rural areas Investment health centres for les through establishing primary health centres using existing populated areas infrastructure or build a new when is necessary. 2 Technical/ Completion of hospitals . Complete and operationalise hospitals under construction: Hakim Investment Hospital and Al-Kahla Hospital. Specific objective2: Needs with regard to medicines, medical supplies and specialised medical centres met Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Capacity Improvement of medical . Establish planning body that will deal with medical supplies - i.e. building supplies distribution establish proper centralised control over procurement and distribution of medical supplies (including medicine) for public health institutions.

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Specific objective3: Emergency medical services developed Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Capacity Improving emergency . Establish IT based database and train staff to use it in a proper building communication systems way in order to decrease emergency reaction time and to increase the efficiency of medical emergency services. 2 Capacity Modernisation of . Plan and complete the procurement of new ambulances and building ambulances invest in modernisation of existing ambulances, providing them with contemporary communication and medical systems.

10. Programme 10: Improve education quality and access

Rationale

The situation with out-of-school children in the province causes anxiety. The illiteracy rate is among the highest in the country and correlates with the poverty rate. The illiteracy has been growing at an alarming rate - linked above all to growing lack of awareness about the importance of education, particularly girls’ education, as a factor of affecting the development of individuals and the society as a whole. Poverty remains one of the most important obstacles standing in the way of school enrolment. Early marriage is an important obstacle to the continuing education of Iraqi girls (especially at the beginning of the lower secondary stage). Other related obstacles to schooling are insufficient number of schools, double shifts, overcrowded classrooms, and schools being located far from students’ homes; inefficiency of teachers and their teaching methods; weakness in the effectiveness of the system for evaluating students; inappropriate school environment.

Therefore, as a first step, it is necessary to improve the availability of schools, the attractiveness of school attendance and to increase awareness of the importance of education – with special attention to women and girls. In the longer run, improving the performance of the system depends on improvement of all its different parts. In other words, effective education must be multi-channel, life long, learner centred, and based on the learner's capacity for continuous self-development. A major factor that will increase the attractiveness of education is its relevance for employment – which requires better alignment of education provision and labour market needs. It is relevant in this regard to foster connections between HEIs and economic entities Finally, the quality of teaching must increase at all levels – including uptake of technology and modern teaching methods.

Critical strategic issues: . High share of illiterate persons in the province . High drop out of students . Continuous increase in the deficit of school enrolment/school buildings . Increasing student-to-teacher ratio due to increased enrolment . Shortage of specialised teachers . Motivation for enrolment in vocational schools is very low . Weak ICT infrastructure and knowledge technology (laboratories in example) . Lack of services (esp. water, electricity, roads for some schools) and access to some rural schools.

Vision

The education sector in Missan is an engine for economic and social development. Primary education is affordable for all children and the quality of secondary and higher education is according to high international standards.

Specific objectives: . Specific objective 1: School buildings constructed in underserved areas . Specific objective 2: Universities connected to economic entities that serve the broad public interest . Specific objective 3: Education quality improved at all stages of education.

The attainment of Specific objective 1 will contribute to the overcoming the lack of school buildings or their poor condition. Standards for the primary schools will be developed. The goal will contribute directly to the inclusion of a larger number of children in the education system and a reduction in the share of illiterates. The attainment of Specific objective 2 will provide for a school environment that attracts more children and young people to

105 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS schools, incl. vocational schools. The need for teachers in specific subjects and in rural areas will be met, and the opportunity to apply modern training methods will be provided. The attainment of Specific objective 3 is related both to technical improvement of education and improvement of physical environment – to remove three shift system, to connect universities to scientific laboratories and to educate teachers.

Strategic objective 3: Human development and social justice ensured Programme 10: Improve education quality and access Specific objective1: School buildings constructed in underserved areas Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Rehabilitation of schools . Rehabilitate 60 schools in urban areas to increase school space, to Investment make it acceptable for newly enrolled students, and to increase the capacity for school enrolment. 2 Technical/ Establishment of integrated . Establish education complex with all supporting services – i.e. Investment model education complex. build a campus in designated area in Amara 3 Technical/ Establishment of new . Build 20 kindergartens for children (ages 2-6) in urban areas in Investment kindergartens in urban areas order to increase employment opportunities for women. 4 Technical/ Establishment of lab rooms in . Establish and equip school laboratories in primary schools Investment primary schools (chemistry, physics, maths and biology) across the province. Specific objective2: Universities connected to economic entities that serve the broad public interest Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ University infrastructure . Build new administrative complex (110 donums) for Missan Investment development (1) University. 2 Technical/ University infrastructure . Increase the capacity of power supply at Missan University Investment development (2) complex in order to have proper coverage for university needs . Establish new electricity station 3 Technical/ Establishment of Agricultural . Rehabilitate the research centre at Missan University. Agricultural Investment Research Station research centre will serve both university and business needs. . Fencing, Gate and Agricultural Research Station rehabilitation / Phase I. Specific objective2: Education quality improved at all stages of education Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Improving the infrastructure . Establish and build an internal girls' ward in the old college Investment for women students complex.

11. Programme 11: Support the inclusion of youth and women

Rationale

The age structure of the population is heavily dominated by the lower-age groups. An overwhelming 70.9% of the population are under the age of 30 (almost 0.8 million people), and children under the age of 15 (0.48 million in total) comprise 43.2% of the population. Both these figures are higher than the average for Iraq. The share of youth (15-29y) is 27.7%. Indeed, youth form the majority of the population in some areas of the governorate. Birth rates, adolescent pregnancy rates and early marriage rates in Missan are among the highest in Iraq and much higher than the average for the country. E.g. MoP reports exceptionally high birth rate in the province – 47.8‰ birth rate in the province in 2013, with only 3.5‰ mortality rate in the same year. In result, Missan has heavier dependency burden than Iraq on average (i.e. higher share of consumers to producers). The very young population puts a major pressure of service provision and social support systems – while in the context of limited jobs creation, weak education levels and unbalanced service provision, it drives up poverty, exclusion and social unrest.

Women comprise 50.2% of the population, and the share of women-led households has been increasing. At the same time, the position of the women in society is still lagging; women have lower opportunities in education and the labour market, and weak role in all areas of the public life; and women continue to experience very high levels of discrimination and violence that are grounded in social customs.

It is important to undertake actions to support youth and women to increase their social and economic inclusion and full participation in society. Such strengthening of societal links will help reduce social threats (GBV, begging, adolescent pregnancy, etc.), as well as impact positively on efforts to strengthen the economy and safety in the 106 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS province. In this regard e.g. the Missan local government has initiated programmes that aim to build bodies by providing infrastructure for youth and sports sector.

Critical strategic issues: . Lack of a comprehensive national policy for youth – resulting in insufficient positive impact of services provided to young people; . Weak performance and experience of specialised staff in the technical and administrative management of youth institutions; . High illiteracy and low education enrolment rates for women, especially in rural areas; . Lack of awareness of women’s rights; . Discrimination against women is a deeply influential cultural factor; . Weak role of women in economic activity – linked to the prevailing social culture in families, which affects negatively the professional status of women.

Vision

A supporting environment exists that promotes the inclusion of youth and women in the economic and social life of the governorate and thereby helps reduce social challenges.

Specific objectives: . Specific objective 1: Youth-friendly environment provided and social links for youth enhanced; . Specific objective 2: Role of women in society enhanced – including gender-balanced work, education and social environment.

Attainment of Specific objective 1 will support the inclusion of youth in community life. Actions under Specific objective 2 target the need to reduce gender discrimination, to promote inclusion and gender balance at the workplace, education and social life.

Strategic objective 3: Human development and social justice ensured Strategic objective 5: Government integrity and effectiveness achieved and community security achieved Programme 11: Support the inclusion of youth and women Specific objective1: Youth-friendly environment provided and social links for youth enhanced Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Technical/ Construction of . Promote sports activities by developing sports facilities (e.g. Investment sports fields Amara city has a number of soccer fields but it lacks other sports facilities); . Improve Youth Centres. 2 Technical/ Construction of . Build swimming pools in urban areas to serve to all citizens, but Investment swimming pools predominantly the young population. Specific objective2: Role of women in society enhanced – including gender-balanced work, education and social environment Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Capacity building Promoting women's . Establish Missan Women Leaders/Entrepreneurs Forum tasked to initiatives support the economic role of women in the province; . Implement women in business project. 2 Technical/ Empowering women . Establish women's centre/club in Missan; Investment, in society . Establish rehabilitation centre for women victims of gender-based Protection activities violence. 3 Awareness Promoting the role . Plan, organise and carry out an information campaign aimed to and rights of women raise awareness of the rights of women and the importance of the role of women, and to eliminate social perceptions and models that limit the rights and role of women.

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12. Programme 12: Improve social protection and safety

Reflecting on the social situation in the country in general and in Missan, it is clear that the groups that need social attention are many. Although a number of policies and programmes have been implemented to reform the social protection system in the country, the effect on the population is limited and a vast share of Missan’s population live in poverty. Prioritising social protection in the development of Missan is expected to contribute directly to improving the living conditions of the thousands of vulnerable families and individuals, and thus, to support social stability and peace.

The Missan local government has initiated programmes that seek to create community security that guarantees the rights of all in accordance with the principles of justice for all.

Critical strategic issues: . Lack of coordination and integration between actors in the social sector and between the public and the private sectors; . Lack of an overall vision to promote social integration – and instead, dependency on (mostly) partial social policies and procedures.

Vision

A cohesive, secure and stable society based on effective institutions and on the values of self-realisation, participation, inclusion and social responsibility, where vulnerable groups enjoy protection and justice.

Specific objectives: . Specific objective 1: Social protection and safe environment ensured for all citizens.

Attainment of this specific objective will help reform, development and effectively extend social protection and social security systems in the province.

Strategic objective 5: Government integrity and effectiveness achieved and community security achieved Programme 12: Improve social protection and safety Specific objective1: Social protection and safe environment ensured for all citizens Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Capacity Data collection to strengthen . Implement programme to support social protection services with building community protection necessary information – to help strengthen safety and security in the community. 2 Technical/ Social protection services for . Establish social service centres in urban areas and mobile teams Investment, vulnerable groups to support vulnerable population in new suburban settlements Protection and villages; activities . Provide vulnerable groups with physical and social protection.

13. Programme 13: Strengthen good governance

Rationale

“Good governance” refers to the “competence and responsibility in the management of government institutions (public administration) to respond to the needs and development of societies through decision-making” (UNDP). . UNDP articulates nine attributes of good governance grouped in five broad principles: participation and consensus-orientation (legitimacy and voice); strategic vision (direction); responsiveness, efficiency and effectiveness (performance); accountability and transparency (accountability); equity and rule of law (fairness). inclusion, rule of law, transparency, response, guidance towards consensus building, equity, efficiency, accountability, and strategic vision.83 “Legitimacy and voice” and “fairness” correspond directly to UN principles of human rights.

83 UNDP (1997), Governance and Sustainable Human Development. 108 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

. According to the World Bank, good governance involves six aspects: voice and accountability; political stability and the absence of violence; government effectiveness; regulatory quality; rule of law; and control of corruption.

Good governance is seen as essential for the realisation of all human rights, including the elimination of poverty.84 While governance contributes to the formulation and implementation of policies, the absence of good governance is not limited to negative effects on public sector performance, but rather, it undermines the existence of sound business environment and attractive investment climate. Thus, the implementation of the principles of good governance directly affects development, inclusion, social justice, investment and private sector development.

Strengthening of governance has strategic importance for Missan province. The Governorate is lacking in capacity and knowledge about good governance in almost all sectors, but particularly in administration. There is desperate need of support in organisational development in order to make the work of the administration more efficient and to make the use of resources more effective. The organisational development model has been implemented in Babil, Najaf and Karbala provinces as a pilot project. The pilot implementation has identified a number of redundancies, a significant number of people who were not used efficiently (hundreds of staff were in fact doing nothing), and poor execution of information management and decision making processes.

The Missan local government has initiated an e-government programme and it aims to complete this in order to reduce administrative and financial corruption.

Critical strategic issues: . Weak Information Management System at the Governorate . Ineffective decision-making process . Inefficient HR processes.

Vision

Strong, efficient and transparent government institutions that contribute directly to achieving all development goals of the governorate.

Specific objectives: . Specific objective 1: Administrative reform activated and administration capacity developed.

The attainment of Specific objective 1 will contribute to overcoming of identified gaps in local government administration with regard to information management and effective decision-making and HR processes.

Strategic objective 5: Government integrity and effectiveness achieved and community security achieved Programme 13: Strengthen good governance Specific objective1: Administrative reform activated and administration capacity developed Activity Project type Project name Short description 1 Capacity Capacity building . Implement programmes to develop the capacity of administrative staff building programme for in all administrative areas – at governorate, qadha and nahia levels– as administrative staff necessary to streamline administrative processes, increase efficiency and transparency, and reduce inefficiency and corruption. 2 Capacity Introducing e- . Implement e-government portal and services platform; building/ IT government system . Implement e-map to support the application and allocation of services; (Phase 1) . Build a GIS database and document all services; . Introduce the e-government system. 3 Capacity Promoting the use of e- . Implement programme to educate and develop the capabilities of building/ government (Phase 2) employees in e-government, especially to prevent resistance to change; Awareness . Implement awareness raising programme among the public to promote public awareness of the advantages of using e-government services.

84 UN CESCR (1999), General Comment No. 12: The Right to Adequate Food (Art. 11). 109 LADP in Iraq – Missan PDS

IX. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PDS

1. Implementing structures

This PDS is going to be implemented through Missan Provincial Government departments led by the Planning Department of the Governorate. The Steering Committee responsible for the planning process will be dissolved, and an Implementing Board will be established with the purpose to take responsibility for implementation, monitoring and updating of the Strategy. Along the way, some specific activities (such as monitoring) will be designated to Committees with specific responsibilities (e.g. Monitoring Committee).

In case Missan Governorate decide to use an implementation structure as suggested in the “Guidelines for Strategic Planning for Local Authorities in Iraq,” the Governor and respective departments will take action regarding the establishment of an economic development entity (e.g. “Strategic Development Organisation”).

2. Monitoring and evaluation

There are three levels of monitoring and evaluation. At levels 1 and 2, the focus is on the recommended interventions and the results of their implementation; at level 3, the focus is on updating the PDS. 1. Level-1 monitoring asks “Is the intervention being implemented as recommended in the PDS?” A comparison of what has occurred with what was set forth in the Summary Action Plan (SAP) for the respective intervention answers this question. Level-1 monitoring considers the details of implementation, the actions taken – or not taken – to implement the recommended intervention. 2. Level-2 monitoring asks “Is the intervention producing the outcomes that lead to achieving the expected results, project purpose and goal?” The performance indicators listed in the second column of the Log Frame Planning Matrix answer this question. Level-2 monitoring assesses the achievement of the expected results, project purpose and goal (i.e. the intended outputs, outcomes and impact of the intervention), as they link the intervention to the PDS vision. 3. Level-3 monitoring asks “Has the environment changed in ways that affect the choice of critical issues, interventions, and implementing entities in the PDS?” The answer uses information generated by the first two levels of monitoring, an update of the economic scan, and an organisational review of the implementing entities. Level-3 monitoring updates the PDS and indicates when the situation has changed so significantly, that it is time either to refresh the PDS or to repeat the full planning process.

Responsibility for monitoring and updating of the PDS will rest with the Provincial Government, part or all of the PDS Task Force, but it could also be designated to another entity (e.g. the local economic development entity). The term “monitoring group” is used here to encompass any of the possible configurations. Ideally, the monitoring group will include representatives from the local government, the business community, the non- governmental sector, other actors relevant to the PDS implementation, and certainly, certainly, leadership from local economic development actors. The monitoring group may act as a whole or establish subcommittee(s) to deal with specific issues.

Monitoring and evaluation/updating are essential components of strategic planning. However, these processes cannot be as tightly specified as the PDS preparation process, because the monitoring process will vary depending on the PDS recommendations for each locality and on the progress made in their implementation. Monitoring occurs over time and it has to respond to an ever-changing situation.

3. Financial resources

Financial resources for implementation of the PDS will be diversified and sought at the national, local and international level. Nationally, the Governorate will present capital investment projects to the respective ministries and negotiate the implementation of programmes. Locally, the implementation of PPPs (Public Private Partnerships) requires to ensure that local-level legislation encourages and remove obstacles to private initiative. Internationally, the Governorate will seek both foreign investment and the assistance of foreign governments in development and humanitarian areas.

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SOURCES

Statistical sources:

. Missan Agricultural Department data . Missan Department of Education data . Missan Water Department . Missan Governorate Statistical Directorate . Missan Governorate sector reports . Baseline Study . COSIT . Ministry of Planning annual statistics . World Bank, World Development Indicators database

Main cited and consulted analyses/studies:

. Alzobaidee, H. (Institute of Development Studies/WFP – Dec 2015), Social Protection and Safety Nets in Iraq: http://www.ids.ac.uk/files/dmfile/SocialprotectionandsafetynetsinIraq.pdf. . Iraq NDP 2013-2017 . NGO Coordination Committee for Iraq (NCCI) (updated Dec 2015), Missan Governorate Profile: http://ncciraqbids.com/images/infobygov/NCCI_Missan_Governorate_Profile.pdf. . IOM DTM Round 82 – 31 Oct 2017: http://iraqdtm.iom.int/DtmReports.aspx and http://iraqdtm.iom.int/ReturneeML.aspx. . IOM (March 2017), Integrated Location Assessment II – Governorate profiles. . http://iraqdtm.iom.int/Downloads/DTM%20Special%20Reports/DTM%20Integrated%20Location%20Asse ssment/DTM%20Integrated%20Location%20Assessment_Part%20II_Governorate%20Profiles_March%20 2017.pdf. . Missan Water Directorate (March 2015), Missan Province: Service Delivery Improvement Plan (SDIP). . MoMPW (2013), Structure Plan of Missan Governorate Phase 2 –Data Analysis Report (Draft). . Scenarios and Alternatives Report Structural Plan. . UNDP (2014), Iraq Human Development Report 2014: http://www.iq.undp.org/content/dam/iraq/img/Publications/UNDP-IQ_IraqNHDR2014-English.pdf. . UNDP/UN-Habitat (22 Nov 2016), LADP Strategic Urban Development Framework for Governorates in Iraq: Indicator Technical Brief. . World Bank (2016), Doing business 2017: Equal Opportunity for All – Iraq: http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/168391478509657720/Doing-business-2017-equal-opportunity- for-all-Iraq. . World Bank (2017), “The World Bank in Iraq: Overview,” updated 01 Apr 2017: http://www.worldbank.org/en/country/iraq/overview. . World Bank (03 Feb 2017), Iraq: Systematic Country Diagnostic (Report No. 112333–IQ): http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/542811487277729890/pdf/IRAQ-SCD-FINAL-cleared- 02132017.pdf.

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