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The Iraqi Political and Economic Center has issued a monumental call today for the establishment of a dedicated Ministry or independent authority focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Iraq. This proposal, which has sparked widespread discussions among policymakers and tech experts, aims to position Iraq as a forward-thinking nation ready to embrace the future of AI-driven innovation.
The Crucial Need for AI in Iraq’s Governance Structure
Given the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence across the world, Iraq faces an urgent need to incorporate AI into its governmental framework. According to Wissam Hadhmal Al-Hilu, the Director of the Economic Center, the creation of an AI Ministry or Authority is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
“The global landscape is evolving, and AI touches every sector, from education to healthcare, and from commerce to security. Iraq needs a dedicated entity to harness these advancements and ensure that AI contributes positively to the nation’s development,” Al-Hilu stated in a press release received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA).
This proposal is being pushed in light of Iraq’s upcoming census, scheduled for later this month. The data from this census could serve as a critical foundation for AI-driven projects, helping to streamline governmental processes and enhance public services across sectors such as education, industry, communications, and tourism.
A Multisectoral Approach to AI Implementation
The Economic Center’s proposal highlights the potential for AI to revolutionize various sectors in Iraq, including telecommunications, e-commerce, and banking. For instance, AI could improve the efficiency of online transactions, electronic payments, and financial transfers, both domestically and internationally. Additionally, AI could play a pivotal role in automating business registrations, enhancing cybersecurity, and digitizing essential services.
Iraq’s evolving economy, combined with its socio-political complexities, creates a unique environment where AI could serve as both a tool for modernization and a mechanism for addressing long-standing issues. The proposed AI Ministry or Authority would act as a central body, coordinating efforts across both public and private sectors to drive AI adoption while ensuring it is used responsibly.
Harnessing AI for National Security and Cyber Defense
Artificial intelligence has the potential to be a double-edged sword, especially in a country like Iraq, which has faced security challenges for decades. The Economic Center emphasized that AI could be instrumental in protecting national security, combating fraud, preventing cyberattacks, and mitigating content manipulation through deepfakes and other forms of digital deception.
According to Al-Hilu, the establishment of an AI-focused entity would allow Iraq to tap into the positive aspects of AI while minimizing its risks. By fostering collaboration between the Ministry of Defense, Communications, and other relevant bodies, this initiative could elevate Iraq’s cybersecurity posture, making the country more resilient to emerging threats. The proposal also highlights the importance of educating the public and raising awareness about the potential risks and benefits of AI.
AI and Iraq’s Educational System: A Key Focus Area
One of the most promising applications of AI lies in the education sector. By integrating AI tools into Iraq’s educational infrastructure, the country can enhance the learning experience and better prepare its students for a tech-driven future. AI could offer personalized learning, intelligent tutoring systems, and automated grading, helping instructors tailor their teaching approaches to meet the needs of individual students.
Furthermore, AI could modernize Iraq’s vocational training programs, equipping the next generation of workers with the skills necessary to thrive in an AI-infused economy. This would ensure that Iraq’s workforce remains competitive in the global market, positioning the country as a hub for technological innovation in the Middle East.
Economic Growth Through AI: An Investment in the Future
Beyond education and security, AI holds the key to unlocking Iraq’s economic potential. The Economic Center’s proposal underscores the role AI can play in industrial sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and tourism. For example, AI-driven data analytics could optimize supply chains, reduce operational inefficiencies, and improve customer service experiences in the tourism and hospitality industries.
Iraq’s telecommunications sector, in particular, stands to benefit from AI advancements. AI can enhance network security, manage peak traffic, and improve customer service through intelligent chatbots. By investing in AI technologies, Iraq could also attract foreign investments and stimulate job creation in high-tech industries.
In an era dominated by rapid technological advances, the establishment of an AI Ministry or Authority in Iraq could be a game-changer. It would empower the nation to leverage AI for economic growth, improved governance, enhanced security, and a more educated populace. The Economic Center’s proposal presents a clear path for Iraq to not only catch up with global trends but also to become a leader in AI innovations within the region.
As Iraq moves forward, it will be crucial for the government and private sector to collaborate and invest in the infrastructure and talent needed to make AI a cornerstone of the nation’s future. By embracing AI, Iraq has the opportunity to transform its economy, secure its borders, and enhance the quality of life for its citizens.
