Proof of Ownership in the Iraqi Legal System in Light of Human Rights Standards

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Entezar Jasim Jaffat Hussein 1
Heydar Bagheri Asl 2
Seyed Mohammad Taghavi Alavi 3
1 PhD Student, Department of Law, Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Law, Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
3 Professor, Department of Law, Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
10.22034/jhsrj.2026.2084627.1054
Abstract
Background and Aim: The Iraqi legal system, integrating Islamic jurisprudence, codified laws, and local customs, faces profound structural challenges in proving ownership following the 2003 war. This article aims to examine these challenges and propose corrective measures to achieve justice and legal security.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted using a descriptive-analytical method, reviewing Iraqi civil, registration, and procedural laws, as well as judicial precedents and related documents.
Ethical Considerations: In preparing this article, research ethics principles, including accurate citation of sources and maintaining scientific neutrality, have been observed.
Ethical Considerations: In preparing this article, the principles of research ethics, including accurate citation of sources and maintaining scientific impartiality, have been observed.
Findings: The findings indicate that significant factors such as administrative corruption, destruction of archives, inconsistency of laws, the influence of political-tribal pressures, and the lack of a digital registration system have made proving ownership difficult and unfair, violating the rights of owners, especially in war-torn areas and for low-income groups. This situation contradicts international human rights standards.
Conclusion: The necessity of fundamental reforms in legislation, modernization of the judicial system, combating corruption, development of information technology (such as blockchain), and strengthening independent oversight institutions to guarantee the right to ownership and realize justice in Iraq is inevitable.
Keywords
Proof of Ownership
Iraqi Legal System
Islamic Jurisprudence
Registration Challenges
Human Rights
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