Iraqi Ministry of Planning considers establishing new governorate

BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Ministry of Planning has announced its discussion on the potential establishment of a new governorate — Sumer Governorate — based on a request submitted by an MP from Dhi Qar Governorate to the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers.

The Ministry has expressed its intention to thoroughly review the proposal, taking into account the opinions of the public, as well as the social, cultural, and economic factors. Additionally, detailed discussions on the maps of cities and villages within the proposed governorate will take place to assess the feasibility of the endeavor.

Following the Iraqi Council of Ministers’ approval last March to elevate the Halabja District in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) to the status of the 19th governorate in Iraq, numerous requests have emerged for establishing new governorates in other regions.

In response to the severe hardships endured by the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people, along with the Yezidis, due to the wars that have profoundly impacted these regions, demands have arisen for the creation of an autonomous region in Nineveh Plains and other areas. This move aims to safeguard their rights and promote their well-being.