Iraq

ETC Activities

The Emergency Telecommunications Cluster (ETC) was formally activated in Iraq in August 2014 in response to the deteriorating security situation in the country. The ETC, led by the World Food Programme (WFP), delivered lifesaving technology services and support to UN agencies and international NGOs until the cluster was demobilized on 31 March 2019. 

The ETC is also worked closely with UNAMI to share their radio network in Baghdad, Basra and Kirkuk and together provided radio programming services across Iraq.

The ETC worked in Iraq with its partners, including Ericsson Response as well as the governments of US, Kuwait, UK, Canada, Sweden and Japan.

ICT Profile

Country background
Country name
Iraq
Capital city
Baghdad
Name of national disaster management agency

N/A

Name of telecommunications ministry

Ministry of Communications (MoC)

Name of telecommunications regulator

Communications and Media Commission (CMC)

Population

45 million

Country narrative

Iraq is a country in the Middle East with a complex history and diverse cultural heritage. It has faced significant challenges in recent years, including conflict, economic instability, and rebuilding efforts. Despite these challenges, Iraq remains rich in natural resources, particularly oil, and has a youthful population with potential for growth and development. The government is focusing on rebuilding infrastructure, improving governance, and fostering economic development.

Currency

Iraqi Dinar (IQD)

Key ICT statistics
Fixed-telephone subscriptions per 100 inhabitants

5 (2022)

Mobile-cellular subscriptions per 100 inhabitants

98 (2022)

Fixed (wired)-broadband subscriptions per 100 inhabitants

14.35 (2022)

Mobile-broadband subscriptions per 100 inhabitants

98.2 (2022)

GSMA mobile connectivity index score

54 (2023)

3G coverage % of population

99.54% (2024)

Regulations and rules
Regolations/Rules
Type of regulation
Disaster management
Policy name

Emergency Use Law 1961

Description

The Emergency Use Law of 1961 in Iraq grants the government the authority to take decisive action during disasters, including the ability to mobilize resources, impose movement restrictions, and deploy emergency services to manage and mitigate the impact of natural or man-made disasters. This law ensures that the government can swiftly implement measures necessary for public safety and disaster response.

Type of regulation
Telecommunications
Policy name

Communications and Media Commission (CMC) Law

Description

The CMC regulates the telecommunications and media sectors, issuing licenses, promoting competition, and protecting consumer rights. It also oversees content to ensure alignment with national security and cultural values. Violations can lead to fines or revocation of licenses.

Type of regulation
UAV
Policy name

Civil Aviation Authority Regulations on UAVs

Description

These regulations require UAV registration, restrict operational areas, and mandate safety protocols to prevent accidents and security breaches. The Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority enforces these rules, with penalties for non-compliance including fines and confiscation of UAVs.

Communications service providers
Mobile network operator (MNO)
Company name
Zain Iraq
GSMA HCC signatory
Yes
Parent company name (majority holding)
Zain Group (Kuwait)
Service description
Leading mobile operator with extensive network coverage.
Coverage map (provide URL)
https://www.gsma.com/coverage/#30
Mobile money service available
Yes
Mobile money service info
Zain Cash
Fibre optic network
No
Voice and SMS services
Yes
3G/4G data services
Yes
Mobile network operator (MNO)
Company name
Asiacell
GSMA HCC signatory
Yes
Parent company name (majority holding)
Ooredoo (Qatar)
Service description
Second-largest operator, offering a range of mobile services.
Coverage map (provide URL)
https://www.gsma.com/coverage/#27
Mobile money service available
Yes
Mobile money service info
Asia Hawala
Fibre optic network
No
Voice and SMS services
Yes
3G/4G data services
Yes
Mobile network operator (MNO)
Company name
Korek Telecom
GSMA HCC signatory
Yes
Parent company name (majority holding)
Korek Group (Iraq)
Service description
Regional provider with strong presence in Northern Iraq.
Coverage map (provide URL)
https://www.gsma.com/coverage/#251
Mobile money service available
No
Fibre optic network
No
Voice and SMS services
Yes
3G/4G data services
Yes