Cover
Volume 7, Issue Speical 7 (2026)

Published: November 5, 2026

Pages: 391-405

Research Article

Youth economic empowerment and its impact on poverty reduction: The entrepreneurship initiative as a model

Sumaya A. Majeed 1 Ahmed K. K. Al-Waeli 2 Ali S. A. Al-Mousawi 3
1Business Administration, Management and Economics, Al-Mustansiriya University, Baghdad, Iraq
2Najaf Health Department, Ministry of Health, Najaf, Iraq
3Business Administration, Management and Economics, University of Kut, Kut, Iraq
History
  • Received: August 15, 2026
  • Available Online: November 5, 2026
DOI

https://doi.org/10.56967/ejfb20261041

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the impact of youth economic empowerment on poverty reduction through entrepreneurship initiatives, considered a modern development mechanism that contributes to enhancing young people's economic capabilities and improving their living standards. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach, using a questionnaire as the primary data collection tool. The research population consisted of 80 young beneficiaries of entrepreneurship initiatives in Najaf, employing a comprehensive census method. The study examined the variable of youth economic empowerment through five dimensions: employment opportunities, skills and capacity development, access to economic resources, economic participation, and economic independence. The poverty reduction variable was measured across four dimensions: governance and accountability, institutional effectiveness, inclusivity and equity, and policy sustainability. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, employing descriptive statistical methods and regression analysis to test the impact hypothesis. The results showed a significant positive impact of youth economic empowerment on poverty reduction, with a regression coefficient of β = 0.477 and a coefficient of determination (R² = 0.249), indicating that economic empowerment contributes to reducing poverty levels among young people. The study recommended strengthening training and funding programs for entrepreneurial projects and developing policies that support entrepreneurship to contribute to more sustainable economic development.

Keywords

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