Young Iraqis Turn to Freelancing as Wages Fail to Keep Up

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Rising living costs and stagnant wages are pushing more young Iraqis into freelance work, accelerating a shift that began during the pandemic. With over 60% of Iraq’s population under 30, Gen Z workers are abandoning low-pay private-sector jobs that average just 2,000 IQD ($1.50) per hour. Many, like Baghdad florist Riya Saeed, say traditional employment no longer offers security, growth, or livable income.