Poverty and the Food Ration Card: Analysis of Impact and Future Challenges
Poverty and the Food Ration Card: Analysis of Impact and Future Challenges
Alaa Hilal
The food ration card system is one of the largest public distribution systems in the world. Initially, it covered all Iraqi citizens regardless of their specific circumstances and living conditions. Over the years, since its implementation in 1990 until today, this system has evolved through accumulated experience. It no longer includes all Iraqis but rather most of them, excluding employees in the public sector whose monthly income exceeds (2) million dinars, as well as those working in the private sector who are officially registered. However, it currently faces a significant challenge due to rising demands for reform to make it more targeted towards the poor, transforming it into an important and effective tool in combating poverty in Iraq.