A day in the life of an Iraqi family

Watch Video

Play Video

Six years of violence and instability have left their mark on the lives of nearly all Iraqis. And while the war has abated considerably of late,life remains difficult for the many millions caught up in the strife that followed the American invasion in 2003.

In Iraq,there is an easy way to how well a family is doing -- check to see if they have an air-conditioner. Or else, check the brand.

Saad has an air-conditioner,though not the most expensive model, and he owns this loft. That makes him part of Iraq's middle-class.

Saad used to be a soldier. He participated in the Iraq-Iran War,and left the army after being wounded.

Then he bought a lorry, earning money by transporting freight.

But his business deteriorated after US troops seized Baghdad.

Now,he has no business at all.

Saad has a son and a daughter. His daughter is married,but often comes to visit with her child. His son has been looking without success for work.

Saad's wife does not work either,and Saad and his son have been unable to find jobs for a long time. Family expenses run to 200 US dollar a month,a huge sum for them.