Iraq launches electronic signature system for state, private sector

BAGHDAD — Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani on Thursday announced the launch of electronic signatures for state institutions, private companies, and citizens, marking the start of Iraq’s Electronic Signature and Electronic Transactions Law No. 78 of 2012 under its 2025 regulations.

Al-Sudani and Communications Minister Hayam al-Yasiri performed the country’s first two official electronic signatures. “This measure represents an important step in implementing one of the government’s main commitments in its program for digital transformation and automation, and simplifying procedures due to its great impact on providing services to citizens, and reducing administrative and financial corruption and the routine that accompanies paper transactions,” al-Sudani said.

He stressed that electronic signatures, “recognized internationally, enhance citizens’ confidence in state procedures and institutions in adopting this type of digital and government transaction that will cover all state and private sector dealings.” He praised the Communications Ministry for preparing data centers and training specialized staff to enable the initiative.

Al-Sudani said the government is pursuing wider reforms in digital transformation, including “establishing administrative structures and specialized centers, attracting expertise, and moving toward adopting electronic means in implementing citizens’ transactions with various ministries, leading to carrying out these transactions in the most modern ways, and achieving the government’s goals in administrative reform.”

The 2012 law provides the legal foundation for electronic signatures, documents, and contracts in Iraq, giving them the same validity as paper-based equivalents when certified and securely identified. Lawmakers designed it to reduce bureaucracy, curb fraud, and build trust in digital systems, enabling government institutions, businesses, and individuals to conduct secure electronic transactions.