Locations
GOVERNANCE
Anti-Corruption and Arbitration In Iraq
UNDP's Anti-Corruption and Arbitration initiatives (ACAI) aim to build on Iraqi efforts to address corruption in a sustainable manner and create a conducive environment for attracting foreign investments and private sector development. Funded by the European Union, the Initiative has been supporting Iraq`s efforts to improve transparency and accountability across state institutions while working with institutions to revise and reform anti-corruption laws by providing specialized technical support.
Directly aligning with the H.E. Prime Minister's and his government's agenda to combat corruption, diversify the economy, advance e-governance, and attract foreign investment; ACAI has been acting as a catalyst for improved capacity, legislation, and a strategic framework for anti-corruption and commercial dispute resolution. Click here to learn more about the achievements of ACAI.
Started in May 2021 with a budget of US $16 Million, the project continues to its second phase with additional US $5 million starting in September 2025. Its main partners are the Higher Judicial Council of Iraq, the Judicial Council of Kurdistan Region, Federal and Regional Commissions of Integrity, Council of Representatives in Iraq, House of Representatives of Kurdistan Region, Federal and Regional Prime Minister Offices and Iraqi civil society organizations.
Iraq is supported by the drafting of the laws on Access to Information and Arbitration, along with the review of other draft laws.
Through Trial Monitoring Programme, hearings on the grand corruption cases were monitored, progress and challenges have been reported.
Journalists and civil society have been supported with corruption reporting. A network on investigative reporting is to be established.
Strengthening Anti-Corruption Laws and Strategies:
UNDP reviewed and supported new laws and policies to improve anti-corruption measures in Iraq, including the draft Access to Information law. It also increased the capacity of over 1,000 public officials on the subject matter and coordinated efforts among national and international partners, paving the way for policies and laws that
Watch how Access to Information Law will support enhancing transparency and accountability in Iraq.
Iraq hosted the Second Arab Forum for Enhancing Transparency and Good Governance, with participation of 300 experts from over 29 countries, a milestone for Iraq`s positioning in the fight against corruption.
Enhancing Commercial Dispute Resolution:
UNDP supported Iraq in improving its commercial dispute resolution laws, including the draft Law on Arbitration, in line with international standards. It also provided training to judges on arbitration practices to support foreign investment.
Click here to read the story in the words of Iraqi law students who came back to Iraq with special recognitions and awards.
Read the journey of Zahraa and Mandana, two Iraqi law students who aim to help the Iraqi legal system become more business-friendly.
Building Capacity to Address Corruption Offenses:
UNDP launched a Trial Monitoring Programme to observe corruption cases and identify gaps in the judicial system. Over 700 judges, prosecutors, and investigators received training to strengthen their skills in handling corruption offenses.
UNDP has published Trial Monitoring Reports which provide concrete recommendations that address the unique needs and challenges of each stakeholder. These include legal reform, training and capacity building, as well as collaboration with civil society and the international community. Access to reports: Federal first report, Federal second report, Kurdistan region first report.
Engaging Parliamentarians in Anti-Corruption Efforts:
UNDP increased parliamentarians' understanding of Iraq's anti-corruption commitments through high-level advocacy sessions. It also supported the development of codes of conduct for both the federal and Kurdistan parliaments.
Empowering Civil Society and the Public for Greater Transparency:
UNDP trained investigative journalists and civil society members to boost transparency and public accountability. It also led the #PasstheBaton Campaign that reached over 65 million social views, encouraging people to take action against corruption.
Watch and read the story of Kawthar and Amira, two young Iraqi women who aim for an Iraq free from corruption. Through UNDP’s Investigative Reporting Workshops, they are taking bold steps to promote transparency and integrity within their communities.
#PasstheBaton: Uniting Iraq’s youth against Corruption. Read how together with youth UNDP galvanized action against corruption. #PasstheBaton reached over 60 million views in 10 days and won the Best Non-Profit Campaign Award in the MENA Region.
Relevant Articles:
-
The Law Speaks Loudest When It Includes Us All – An Interview with Judge Taghreed Abdulmajeed Nasir
-
Five ways UNDP has been supporting the Government of Iraq in ending corruption and boosting foreign investment
-
UNDP continues to support the Government of Iraq in ending corruption and boosting foreign investment
-
UNDP Launches Trial Monitoring Report Spotlighting Progress in Iraq’s Anti-Corruption Efforts
-
UNDP Unveils Comprehensive Report on Grand Corruption Cases in Kurdistan Region
-
In the words of Kawthar and Amira: 'A corruption free Iraq is the hope of all Iraqis'
-
Marking a milestone in boosting foreign investments: Iraq signs the Singapore Convention
-
UNDP Hosts Discussion on New York Arbitration Convention to Boost Foreign Investment in Iraq
-
A more investment-friendly economy in Iraq through UNDP's arbitration initiative
Relevant Publications:
