Baghdad: A United Nations official has commended Iraq for making positive strides in its efforts to combat drugs and organized crime. The United Nations confirmed that Iraq has achieved significant advancements in addressing these issues.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Ali Farouk Al-Barir, the head of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Iraq, highlighted the various forms of organized crime, including terrorism, drugs, money laundering, corruption, and human trafficking. Al-Barir noted that Iraq has made substantial efforts, such as the Ministry of Interior’s restructuring of its directorates for combating drugs and organized crime. These initiatives have positively influenced Iraq’s international standing, earning the country an American award in 2024 for its efforts in combating human trafficking.
The UNODC’s Senior Program Coordinator remarked on the increased interception rates and quantities of confiscated drugs in Iraq. He also acknowledged ongoing efforts in tackling money laundering and terrorist financing. Al-Barir emphasized that continued progress in these areas would yield further positive outcomes, with support from the UNODC.
Al-Barir further commented on Iraq’s current legal framework, noting that it treats drug addicts as patients, a view supported by the new amendment to the law. He emphasized the importance of respecting human rights during anti-drug investigations and the need for legal oversight in monitoring operations.
He also addressed the issue of legally permissible drug use rates, explaining that these rates vary by country. Some psychotropic substances and painkillers are prescribed as drugs, with a maximum limit of 50 grams allowed for certain medications. Quantities exceeding this limit must be legally accounted for. Al-Barir stated that the schedules of permitted substances are internationally studied and approved by the National Committee or the Supreme Authority for Combating Drugs, along with relevant ministries, which determine the permitted percentage for each substance.