In this seminar, the UK Ambassador to Iraq H.E. Frank Baker, talked about the importance of transparency for a strong economy for the future of Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. He also highlighted the recent political developments in Baghdad and the fight against ISIL. The seminar came at a time where Iraq and the Kurdistan Region are going through a severe financial and economic crisis, with Transparency International often listing Iraq among the most corrupt countries in the world. As a result, there is a wide appreciation by both governments for moving away from the rentier state model and reshaping the structure of their economies, as well as pursuing measures to combat corruption and improve transparency.
Date: 11 May 2016
Venue: MERI Office