Title: Iraq’s Battle Against Financial Crimes: Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing
Iraq, a Middle Eastern country, faces two significant financial threats: money laundering and terrorism financing. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of these illicit practices as defined by Iraqi law.
Money Laundering: Hiding Unlawful Gains
The Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Law No. (39) of 2015 lays down the rules against money laundering in Iraq. According to this legislation, a person is guilty of money laundering if they:
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Transfer funds: With the intent to conceal or disguise their unlawful origin.
- Through transactions or exchanges
- From an individual who is aware or should have been aware that the funds originated from an illegal source
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Conceal or disguise: The truth about funds or assets from individuals who are aware or should have been aware of their illegal origin.
- Relating to the source, location, condition, method of disposal, ownership, or any related rights
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Acquire, possess, or use: Funds from individuals who were cognizant of their illegal origin at the point of acquisition.
Terrorism Financing: Fuelling the Fire of Violence
Article (1/tenth) of the Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Law No. (39) of 2015 addresses terrorism financing. The law states that a person is guilty of terrorism financing if they:
- Provide or attempt to provide: Funds, from a legal or illegal source, with the intention of using them or allowing others to use them in the execution of a terrorist act.
It is crucial to note that:
- Individuals and organizations: Responsible for the commission or attempted commission of the predicate crime also fall under the scope of this legislation.
- Location and perpetrator: Neither the location of the crime nor the presence of the perpetrator in the country is a prerequisite for guilt.