Iraq is a country located in Western Asia, situated between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. Its administrative structure is characterized by a division into several governorates, also known as provinces. As of the latest administrative division, Iraq is composed of 19 governorates. These governorates serve as the primary administrative divisions and are integral to the country’s political and administrative framework. Each governorate is governed by a provincial council and a governor, who oversee local administration and development projects.
1. Baghdad: The capital and the largest city of Iraq, Baghdad, serves as both a governorate and a significant administrative and economic hub. It is located in the central part of the country along the Tigris River. Baghdad has been a center of political and cultural life in Iraq for centuries and continues to be a focal point for national affairs.
2. Basra: Situated in the southern part of Iraq, Basra is the countryโs main port and an important center for the oil industry. It has a strategic position along the Shatt al-Arab waterway, which is crucial for maritime trade and oil export.
3. Erbil: As the capital of the Kurdistan Region, Erbil is a key governorate in the northern part of Iraq. The city of Erbil is known for its historical significance and its role as an economic and administrative center within the semi-autonomous Kurdish region.
4. Sulaymaniyah: Also part of the Kurdistan Region, Sulaymaniyah is another important governorate in northern Iraq. It is known for its cultural heritage, including numerous museums and historical sites, and plays a significant role in the region’s politics and economy.
5. Duhok: Located in the northernmost part of the Kurdistan Region, Duhok is another governorate within the Kurdish autonomous area. The governorate is known for its diverse population and its role in regional trade and agriculture.
6. Nineveh: This governorate is located in the northwestern part of Iraq, with its capital in Mosul. Nineveh is historically significant due to its ancient Assyrian heritage and has faced significant challenges due to recent conflicts and reconstruction efforts.
7. Kirkuk: Kirkuk, situated in northern Iraq, is a governorate known for its ethnic diversity and significant oil resources. The city of Kirkuk has been a focal point of ethnic and political tensions but remains crucial to Iraq’s oil production and economy.
8. Anbar: Positioned in western Iraq, Anbar is the largest governorate by area. Its capital is Ramadi. The region has been a focal point in various conflicts, and its vast desert landscapes are interspersed with key urban centers and military bases.
9. Babil: Located in central Iraq, Babil is a governorate with its capital in Hillah. It is notable for its historical and archaeological sites, including the ruins of ancient Babylon, which are of significant cultural and historical importance.
10. Najaf: Known for its religious significance, Najaf is located in southern Iraq and serves as an important center for Shia Islam. The governorate’s capital, Najaf, is a prominent religious and pilgrimage site.
11. Karbala: Situated south of Baghdad, Karbala is another governorate with major religious significance, particularly in Shia Islam. The city of Karbala is renowned for its holy shrines and annual pilgrimage events.
12. Qadisiyyah: Located in central Iraq, Qadisiyyah has its capital in Diwaniya. It is known for its agricultural production and its historical sites, contributing to both the regional economy and cultural heritage.
13. Wasit: Wasit is situated in southeastern Iraq, with its capital in Kut. The governorate plays a significant role in agriculture and trade due to its strategic location along the Tigris River.
14. Diyala: Positioned in eastern Iraq, Diyala’s capital is Baqubah. The governorate is known for its diverse population and has faced challenges related to security and reconstruction in recent years.
15. Muthanna: Located in southern Iraq, Muthanna has its capital in Samawah. The governorate is notable for its agricultural activities and its strategic importance in southern Iraq.
16. Salah al-Din: This governorate is situated in northern central Iraq, with its capital in Tikrit. It is known for its historical sites and has been a significant location in recent conflicts.
17. Dhi Qar: Dhi Qar is located in the southern part of Iraq, with its capital in Nasiriyah. It is recognized for its archaeological sites, including the ancient city of Ur, which holds significant historical value.
18. Missan: Positioned in southeastern Iraq, Missan’s capital is Amarah. The governorate is known for its oil resources and agricultural production.
19. Al-Qadisiyyah: Located in central Iraq, Al-Qadisiyyah has its capital in Diwaniyah. It plays a vital role in the regional economy, particularly in agriculture and local trade.
The administrative divisions of Iraq are essential for managing the country’s diverse geographical and cultural landscape. Each governorate plays a critical role in local governance, development, and administration. The delineation of these governorates reflects Iraq’s complex socio-political fabric and its regional diversity, which includes a range of ethnic, cultural, and historical backgrounds. The division into governorates helps facilitate localized governance, economic development, and the implementation of national policies at the regional level.