Iraq's international obligations in addressing climate change

Abstract

This study analyses the global legal framework regulating the Republic of Iraq's obligations to combat climate change. It examines the treaty underpinnings that support these pledges, specifically the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement. The study investigates the characteristics of these commitments, analysing their behavioural and outcome-oriented dimensions, as well as their influence on Iraqi national legislation and policies. This document evaluates international legal frameworks for executing climate obligations, encompassing transparency protocols, regular reporting, and Conferences of the Parties (COPs), while also examining the present status of national adherence amid the economic and institutional obstacles confronting Iraq.
The research suggests that Iraq, as a developing nation, exhibits legal flexibility in fulfilling its obligations. This flexibility is, however, mitigated by structural difficulties that impede effective application. This requires fortifying the national legislative and administrative framework and augmenting international collaboration to attain equilibrium between developmental needs and global climate commitments. The research structure is defined and divided into three sections. The first section examines the international legal basis for Iraq's obligations in addressing climate change. The second section explores the international legal mechanisms for implementing Iraq's climate commitments and their implications. The third section addresses national challenges and mechanisms for enhancing implementation and compliance in Iraq.

The research employs a legal analysis approach, focusing on relevant international treaties and climate agreements, interpreting their content, and clarifying the resulting legal obligations.

A variety of methodological tools are used. The descriptive approach is employed to clarify the Iraqi national institutional framework and the implementation of climate commitments. The comparative approach is used to a limited extent to examine the differences between developed and developing countries within the international legal framework for climate, as well as to assess Iraq's position within this classification.