The specialized workshop titled “Aligning Iraqi Legislation to Address Environmental Challenges and Climate Change” concluded in Erbil, organized by the Public Aid Organization (PAO) in cooperation with the Ozone Network and supported by the Norwegian People’s Aid under the program Improving Human Rights Conditions and Enhancing Democratic Participation.
Held on November 21–22, 2025, the workshop brought together experts, legal specialists, and representatives from ministries and governmental institutions to discuss the legislative reforms needed to address Iraq’s growing environmental pressures.
Discussions resulted in a call to launch a national action plan to amend relevant laws, aiming to protect environmental and economic sectors from the impacts of climate change. The recommendations emphasized the need for decisive legal measures, including the repeal of legal immunities such as Article 80 of the Iraqi Penal Code, which currently hinders accountability for entities violating environmental regulations.
Participants also stressed the importance of unifying national efforts on this issue, with the Ministry of Environment taking the leading role, while other ministries act as supporting bodies to ensure effective and sustainable legislative reform.
