Geographical analysis of demographic shifts in Wasit Governorate for the year 2020 (A Study in Population Geography)

Abstract

The change in the population's age structure represents the result of demographic processes over a relatively long period of time. These processes have led to an accumulation of indicators from previous stages and have essentially indicated the demographic changes that will occur in the coming years. This structure reflects long-term demographic processes that may extend over more than one generation in the preceding stage, controlling population development in the next stage and its complementary relationship with development  .       

Specialists and researchers can predict the demographic changes that will occur in the population. Therefore, the current population change in Iraq in general, and in Wasit Governorate in particular, is characterized by an increase in the size of the working-age population and production, compared to a decline in the size of the dependent age groups (children and the elderly). This population dynamic will lead Iraq to enter the threshold of a new demographic change.

The study concluded that this change could open the door to development opportunities if human capacity is built and developed based on the interaction between their competence in terms of education and experience and the requirements of the economic growth process and development in general. In light of these demographic changes and the extent to which they occur, the extent to which the demographic window opens up and provides comprehensive development opportunities must be compared with the constraints and limitations at the local and national levels, such as building human capital capacities, enhancing their skills and experience, and providing appropriate job opportunities. This must also ensure optimal investment of available resources in light of sustainable human development standards.