EU-UNDP Project Aims to Strengthen Anti-Corruption Laws and Promote Commercial Dispute Resolution in Iraq

Background

The European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have launched a new project aimed at strengthening anti-corruption laws and institutions in Iraq. The “Anti-Corruption and Arbitration in Iraq” project will run from May 2021 to April 2025 with a budget of US$16 million (EUR15 million).

Objectives

The project’s objectives are:

Improve the capacity and integrity of public institutions investigating and adjudicating corruption offenses
Enhance the legal framework for commercial litigation
Engage civil society, media, and citizens in a constructive dialogue on anti-corruption reform
Create a conducive environment for attracting foreign investments and private sector development

Impact

The project aims to achieve its objectives by:

Providing demand-driven training and tailored technical advice to improve legislative and strategic frameworks for anti-corruption reforms
Improving the capacity of the justice sector and Commission of Integrity to process corruption offenses through improved technical skills and integrity rules
Strengthening the legal framework for commercial litigation
Creating a climate of support in Parliament for anti-corruption reforms
Increasing transparency and public accountability

Partnerships

The project is being implemented in partnership with:

Higher Judicial Council of Iraq
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
Iraqi civil society organizations

Quotes

“Corruption affects not only individuals but also families and communities. We need to work together to combat corruption and ensure that our country’s natural resources benefit all Iraqis.” - Senior government official