Iraq Takes Significant Step Against Corruption with Launch of Financial Investigations Handbook
A New Tool in the Fight Against Corruption
BAGHDAD, IRAQ - November 27, 2023 - In a major move against corruption, Iraq has launched a Financial Investigations Handbook aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of financial investigations throughout the country.
The Handbook: A Critical Asset for Fighting Corruption
Developed in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the handbook provides clear instructions and practical insights for law enforcement agencies, auditors, and legal professionals to uncover hidden financial trails, expose corrupt practices, and ensure justice is served. The guide was designed to equip Iraqi authorities with the necessary knowledge and techniques to effectively investigate financial irregularities and illicit activities.
Launch Ceremony Attended by High-Ranking Officials
The launch ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials from various government institutions, including the Presidents of the Federal and KRI Commissions of Integrity, and representatives from the UNDP. His Excellency Dr. Faeq Zaidan, Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Council, praised the efforts of those involved in developing the handbook.
Empowering Investigative Judges
“The Financial Investigations Handbook is a critical asset for our country’s pursuit of accountability and a robust financial system,” Dr. Zaidan said. “It will empower our investigative judges and judicial investigators with the necessary knowledge and techniques to uncover hidden financial trails and expose corrupt practices.”
Key Highlights of the Handbook
- Provides clear instructions and practical insights for law enforcement agencies, auditors, and legal professionals
- Equips Iraqi authorities with the necessary knowledge and techniques to effectively investigate financial irregularities and illicit activities
- Enhances the effectiveness of financial investigations throughout the country
Development Made Possible through UNDP Funding
The development of the Financial Investigations Handbook was made possible with funding from the United States Government through the UNDP. Auke Lootsma, UNDP Iraq Resident Representative, commended the efforts of Iraqi institutions in engaging with the collaborative process of devising the handbook.
“We commend the courage and persistence of those working in our 11 partner institutions on countering corruption, financial crimes, and money laundering,” Lootsma said. “We also thank them for their trust in engaging with UNDP throughout this collaborative process.”
Launch Marks a Significant Step Forward
The launch of the Financial Investigations Handbook marks a significant step forward in Iraq’s fight against corruption, reinforcing its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
Contact Information
For media inquiries, please contact:
Doreen Kansiime, Communications Specialist doreen.kansiime@undp.org | +9647866996115
Mohammed Al-Bahbahanee, Communications Specialist mohammed.al-bahbahanee@undp.org | +9647704399222