Geographical Analysis of Fragile Groups in Anbar Governorate

Aims: The current study aims to investigate the fragile population groups in Anbar Governorate. The study also aimed to analyze the factors influencing the spread of this phenomenon and determining the geographical distribution of fragility. It also seeks to provide development strategies to reduce this group and achieve economic and social stability. Methodology: the study adopted the analytical approach to study population data and an inductive approach to extract future trends. It also used a statistical approach to analyze the relationship between the level of fragility and demographic and economic factors, adopting Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to determine the spatial distribution of fragile groups. Results: After analyzing the data, the study showed that Anbar Governorate comprises 4.5% of Iraq's total population and fragile groups constitute 3.2% of the total fragile population. The highest rates of fragile were recorded in Fallujah and Ramadi districts, at 29% and 23%, respectively. This high ratio could be to high population density and economic and security challenges. In contrast, the lowest rates were recorded in Rawah and Rutba districts (1.5% and 2.5%). The fragile rate in Anbar reached 60 per 1,000 people, rising to 139 per 1,000 in Rawah district, while the lowest rate was in Haditha (38 per 1,000 people). Conclusion: It can be concluded that population fragile levels in Anbar vary according to economic and social factors and population distribution. The current study recommends that local government should pay more attention to develop economic and politic strategies to improve economic, increase employment opportunities, and enhance social services to achieve sustainable development and economic stability.