Wassit has potential for growth and diversity in its agricultural and industrial output. Agriculture has suffered from increased water salinity, low utilisation of modern farming techniques, urban-rural migration and the usage of farmland for military purposes. 38% of all jobs in the governorate are in the agricultural sector, which may be a factor behind the low unemployment rate in rural areas (10%, compared to a 15% national average). However, many of these jobs are unpaid and 17% of rural children aged 5-14 are in employment.

Wassit lags behind in many key aspects of development. 35% of the population lives below the national poverty line. All districts apart from Badra and Al Swaira suffer from high poverty levels. Male and female illiteracy is above the respective national averages of 11% and 24% in all districts. The primary school enrolment rate in urban areas (88%) is in line with the national urban average (89%). However, rural enrolment rates (66%) are well below the national rural average of 77%, and primary school enrolment among rural girls is just 58%. Badra and Al Swaira suffer from lack of water network access, poor sanitation and chronic malnutrition. Wassit’s electricity supplies are reliable compared to the rest of Iraq.

Wassit hosts a large number of post-2006 IDPs, most of which were displaced from neighbouring Baghdad and Diyala. Access to employment opportunities is a priority for 81% of these IDP families, while 71% require food. 89% of IDP families have no income source through employment, while access to the Public Distribution System varies widely according to location. 52% of Wassit’s IDP families intend to integrate into their current location.