On January 19, 2021, Aran Organization for Development of Civil Culture, with support from the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), took a critical step to address unemployment caused by dual employment among state employees in the Kurdistan Region. The organization visited the General Attorney’s Office in Sulaymaniyah and officially registered a judicial complaint against the practice of state employees holding second jobs in the private sector.

Background and Context

The issue of dual employment among state employees has significantly contributed to the rising unemployment rate in the region, particularly affecting thousands of recent graduates who are unable to secure jobs. Mr. Sami Sati, Aran Organization’s attorney, stated:

“Because state employees hold second jobs, thousands of unemployed graduates are deprived of job opportunities.”

According to informal estimates, more than 70,000 state employees in the Kurdistan Region work simultaneously in the public and private sectors, a practice that contravenes Iraq’s State Employees Law.

Petition and Complaint

During the meeting with the General Attorney, Aran Organization:

• Submitted a petition requesting the enforcement of laws prohibiting dual employment.
• Highlighted the adverse effects of political interference and dual employment on job availability for unemployed graduates.
• Called for immediate action to end this practice and ensure fair distribution of job opportunities.

Mr. Sami Sati emphasized:

“This judicial complaint is the first step. Next, we will visit the Kurdistan Parliament and Home State to push for concrete action. We remain committed to achieving our goal.”

The Path Forward

Aran Organization outlined a three-step plan to address this issue:

1. Registering the judicial complaint with the General Attorney’s Office.
2. Advocating for legal reforms and enforcement by engaging the Kurdistan Parliament.
3. Following up on the case and maintaining pressure until substantial action is taken.

Broader Implications

This initiative underscores Aran Organization’s dedication to promoting good governance and addressing structural issues that exacerbate unemployment. By tackling dual employment, the organization aims to create a fairer job market and advocate for the rights of thousands of unemployed graduates across the Kurdistan Region.