Legal Responsibility For Environmental Pollution In Iraq: Between Punishment And Compensation

Abstract:

This article aims to shed light on the Iraqi legal framework for addressing environmental pollution through the criminal penalties stipulated in the Iraqi Environmental Protection and Improvement Law No. 27 of 2009, in addition to monetary and in-kind civil compensation under the Iraqi Civil Code. The article highlights the importance of combining deterrence and remediation to ensure environmental protection and achieve justice for those affected.

Criminal Penalties

Article (32) of the Iraqi Environmental Protection and Improvement Law provides that the penalty may be a fine, imprisonment, or both. These penalties aim to deter individuals and entities that commit acts harmful to the environment and are subject to the general principles governing criminal sanctions, as is the case in most international legislations.