Transparency in Iraqi Administrative Procedures: A Critical Study of Anti-Corruption Laws

Abstract

This research analytically and critically examines the role of administrative transparency in combating corruption in Iraq, with a focus on Iraqi anti-corruption laws, particularly the Integrity Commission Law No. (30) of 2011. The study aims to identify the gap between legal texts and actual implementation, and to assess the effectiveness of legal provisions in ensuring transparent administrative procedures, utilizing a descriptive-analytical and critical methodology. It reviews relevant legislation including the Iraqi Constitution, the Penal Code No. (111) of 1969, the State Employees Discipline Law No. (14) of 1991 as amended, and the United Nations Convention against Corruption (2003). The findings reveal significant legal gaps, most notably the absence of a Right to Access to Information Law, the lack of effective protection for whistleblowers, the weak independence of the Integrity Commission, and the obsolescence of penal provisions. The research recommends a set of legislative and institutional reforms, including enacting a Right to Information Law, a Whistleblower Protection Law, amending the Integrity Commission Law to ensure its actual independence, and updating the Penal Code to address contemporary forms of corruption.