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Iraqi Judiciary Tackles Financial Crimes with UNDP Training
A Partnership for Justice Reform
BAGHDAD, IRAQ - Since 2021, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been at the forefront of training thousands of Iraqi officials on investigating and prosecuting complex financial crimes. This initiative has seen over 2,000 officials, including more than 700 judges, benefit from interactive workshops led by UNDP experts.
A Valuable Resource for Judges and Prosecutors
The workshops, which began as a pilot program for financial investigations, have evolved into a valuable networking hub for judges and prosecutors across Iraq. According to officials, the popularity of the workshops has been increasing steadily, with many participants praising their effectiveness in promoting collaborative approaches to solving complex cases.
Collaborative Approach to Financial Crime Investigations
One such workshop was attended by Judge Kawa Fathi Masoum, the Public Prosecutor General of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, who praised the efforts of UNDP’s trainers and recognized them with an award at a ceremony. The workshops have become a driving force for change and improvement in financial crime investigations, creating a community of practice that supports and strengthens the judiciary’s role in combating corruption and anti-money laundering.
Key Benefits of the Workshops
The impact of these workshops has been far-reaching, providing judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement officers with the necessary tools and knowledge to conduct thorough financial investigations. This includes:
- Tracing the origins of assets
- Identifying beneficiaries
- Documenting the movement of assets associated with criminal activities
- Ultimately forfeiting those assets for the benefit of citizens
A Handbook for Enhancing Financial Investigations
One notable achievement of the project has been the development of a Handbook for Enhancing Financial Investigations and Upholding the Rule of Law, launched in November 2023. The handbook was co-created by 11 institutions collaborating on financial crimes cases and serves as a valuable resource for professionals working in this field.
A Strong Partnership for Success
The success of the UNDP’s training program is also a testament to its strong partnership with Iraqi agencies, including the Supreme Judicial Council, the Federal Ministry of Interior, and the Commission of Integrity. The project has received invaluable support from the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement, further underscoring the importance of international cooperation in addressing financial crime.
A Commitment to Building a Robust Justice System
As UNDP continues its work on building a robust justice system in Iraq, officials remain committed to enhancing integrity and combating financial crimes. With ongoing training and capacity-building initiatives, the Iraqi judiciary is poised to become a leader in tackling complex financial crimes and promoting transparency and accountability throughout the country.