Factors hindering the implementation of PPP in Iraq

Purpose It is a worldwide phenomenon that infrastructure development is considered a catalyst for a country’s economic growth, enhanced service delivery and improved quality of life. Iraq has a considerable lack of necessary infrastructure. Many developing and developed nations utilise public-private partnerships (PPPs) as a means to address their infrastructure investment requirements. This study, however, uniquely investigates the specific factors hindering the implementation of PPP in Iraq, focusing on Iraq’s distinct political, economic and legislative challenges. Design/methodology/approach A thorough literature review, guided by systematic principles similar to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), has been conducted to understand PPP and highlight the factors that can facilitate the effective implementation of PPP around the globe. Afterwards, a questionnaire survey was deployed to relevant stakeholders in Iraq to examine these factors in the specific context of Iraq. Subsequently, in-depth interviews with key Iraqi decision-makers were carried out to discuss the questionnaire results in more detail and pinpoint particular barriers impeding successful PPP implementation in Iraq. These data were then rigorously analysed to highlight Iraq’s unique challenges, and the results were discussed to provide a contextual understanding. Based on these insights, conclusions and recommendations are drawn accordingly. Findings The results revealed that one of the main factors hindering the implementation of PPP in Iraq is the absence of a legal and regulatory framework that can give PPP implementation its legitimacy in Iraq. Other factors include the overall reluctance of several Iraqi legislators towards the PPP system and the unavailability of an environment attractive to investors. Originality/value The findings and recommendations set forth in this research can aid champions of the PPP system within the government of Iraq in devising an effective plan. Unlike similar studies, this paper addresses barriers specific to Iraq, such as political reluctance and regulatory gaps, providing new insights to guide policy. This plan is intended to foster a PPP mindset among relevant lawmakers, ensuring the successful approval of PPP laws and regulatory frameworks.