Artificial Intelligence law at Iraq
As of May 2025, Iraq does not have a comprehensive national artificial intelligence (AI) law. However, the country is actively exploring AI integration across various sectors, including security, education, and digital transformation. While specific AI legislation is lacking, Iraq is taking steps toward establishing frameworks and policies to govern AI technologies.
🇮🇶 Iraq’s AI Landscape: Current Developments
1. Government Initiatives and AI Strategy
Iraq has established the Supreme Committee for Artificial Intelligence, tasked with integrating AI into national development plans. The committee's vision includes:(The New Region)
Educational Integration: Incorporating AI concepts into school curricula and establishing AI-focused colleges, such as the proposed College of Artificial Intelligence at the University of Baghdad.(The New Region)
Economic Diversification: Utilizing AI to reduce reliance on oil by enhancing sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and tourism.
Youth Empowerment: Protecting youth from exploitation by criminal and extremist groups through AI-driven initiatives. (Iraq Business News)
2. Data Protection and Privacy
Iraq currently lacks comprehensive data protection legislation. Privacy protection remains underdeveloped, with references to a "right to personal privacy" in the Iraqi Constitution of 2005, but no detailed legal framework. The absence of specific data protection laws poses challenges for AI deployment, particularly concerning data governance and user privacy. (Al Tamimi & Company)
3. Cybersecurity and Legal Frameworks
While Iraq does not have specific cybercrime legislation, existing laws such as the Iraqi Civil Code and Penal Code are applied to cyber-related offenses. These laws address issues like internet fraud, identity theft, and cyberstalking, but they are not tailored to the complexities introduced by AI technologies. (Al Tamimi & Company)
4. International Collaboration and Ethical Considerations
Iraq is engaging in international dialogues to establish ethical standards for AI. For instance, the Minister of Communications has proposed that the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) set binding standards for social media and AI to ensure respect for diverse cultures and religions. Additionally, UNESCO is training Iraqi trainers on AI ethics to promote responsible AI development. (The New Region, UNESCO)
🔍 Challenges and Outlook
Despite these initiatives, Iraq faces several challenges in AI adoption:
Infrastructure Limitations: Many ministries and institutions lack the necessary digital infrastructure and expertise to implement AI solutions effectively. (The New Region)
Regulatory Gaps: The absence of comprehensive AI legislation and data protection laws hinders the development of a robust AI ecosystem.
Workforce Development: There is a need for significant investment in education and training to develop a skilled workforce capable of supporting AI initiatives. (arXiv)
Looking ahead, Iraq aims to position itself as a hub for AI innovation in the region. The government's focus on education, infrastructure development, and international collaboration indicates a commitment to fostering a responsible and inclusive AI ecosystem.
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