Iraq Makes Strides in Fraud Detection with UNDP Support

Enhancing Forensic Auditing Capabilities in Iraq

Basra, Iraq - The Iraqi government, with the backing of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has concluded a series of forensic auditing workshops aimed at bolstering the capabilities of its Federal Boards of Supreme Audit and Commissions of Integrity to detect fraud and corruption.

Strengthening Forensic Auditing Capabilities

The training sessions, which commenced in March 2023, brought together over 200 professionals from various institutions to share best practices in recognizing fraud, preparing comprehensive reports, and implementing preventive measures. The eight workshops, held in Baghdad, Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Basra, equipped participants with specialized skills in forensic auditing, data analytics, digital forensics, and cybersecurity.

Collaborative Environment

The training fostered a collaborative environment, encouraging peer–peer learning and the sharing of experiences among professionals from various government agencies. Participants praised the workshops for providing practical ideas that can be deployed in their work environment to combat fraud and corruption.

“This workshop helped us to share practical ideas that we can deploy in our work environment to combat fraud and corruption in Iraq,” said Dalal Abdul Rahman Yassin, Financial Controller at the Federal Board of Supreme Audit.

“Exchanging professional experiences with colleagues from other government agencies was eye-opening.”

Forensic Auditing: A Crucial Tool in Combating Financial Crimes

Forensic auditing is a crucial tool in combating financial crimes, and the workshops helped participating organizations deepen their understanding of global standards in forensic accounting and auditing.

“Through these workshops, we have become more knowledgeable about scientific methods of detection and discovery of fraud,” said Mr. Haitham Sabah Hussein, Director of Digital Auditing at the Federal Board of Supreme Audit.

“We would like to learn such special techniques considering the rapid developments in digitalization and the e-government rollout in Iraq.”

UNDP Project: Strengthening the Rule of Law and Human Rights

The UNDP project, titled ‘Strengthening the Rule of Law and Human Rights to Sustain Peace and Foster Development in Iraq,’ aims to fortify the capabilities of investigative bodies in tackling complex financial crimes. The initiative is funded by the US Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) and has supported over 700 investigators, prosecutors, and auditors since its inception in 2021.

“This project is building a diverse skillset of practitioners, and the forensic auditing workshops stand out for their deep focus on financial analyses and how auditing can be used as a tool in fighting crimes,” said Romana Schweiger, Programme Manager of the UNDP Rule of Law/Security Sector Reform Programme.

“We are proud to support the Iraqi government’s efforts to build trust and confidence between legal entities, public finance institutions, security sector institutions, and communities.”

A Safer and More Prosperous Future

The success of these workshops marks an important step forward in Iraq’s journey towards a more transparent and accountable financial ecosystem, paving the way for a safer and more prosperous future.