The role of the Integrity Commission in promoting administrative transparency in Iraq

This research conducts a comprehensive academic investigation of the concepts of transparency, integrity, and administrative corruption, using the Iraqi Commission of Integrity as a case study. The research commences by establishing a conceptual framework derived from the provided texts. It characterises integrity as the foundation of effective government and transparency as the public's entitlement to information. The analysis examines the establishment, legal authority, and operational challenges of the Iraqi Commission of Integrity, emphasising its transformation from a transitory authority to an independent legal entity. The primary focus of the study is an empirical analysis of the commission's performance data derived from its annual reports for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024. The findings indicate a significant increase in investigations, sting operations, and convictions of senior officials. This indicates that the company is more proficient in fulfilling its responsibilities and is resolute in combating extensive corruption. The report identifies numerous significant issues, including a substantial discrepancy between the investigated funds and the amount finally recovered, along with delays in the legal proceedings and the execution of arrest warrants. Comparing these results to regional reports and international indices such as the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) and the Open Budget Survey (OBS) reveals that Iraq effectively manages its budget but struggles with transparency and public engagement. These issues are prevalent in the MENA region. In light of these findings, the study concludes with a series of pragmatic recommendations, including amending legislation to expedite asset recovery, digitising judicial procedures, and enhancing collaborations with other nations and communities to bolster the commission's long-term efficacy.