The role of administration in organizing electoral propaganda : A comparative study of Iraq as an example

• Published in: الرافدین للحقوق
• Main Author: Shaymaa Aziz
• Format: Article
• Language: Arabic
• Published: University of Mosul-College of Law 2025-09-01
• Subjects: electoral propaganda; electoral administration; visual media; electoral spending
• Online Access: https://alaw.uomosul.edu.iq/article_189381_243b676be421f7457f40d043ce832c1f.pdf

The specialization of administrative bodies in organizing electoral propaganda is a fundamental and necessary aspect of ensuring the integrity of the electoral process within democratic systems. Recognizing the importance of this role, the Iraqi legislator established a constitutional body the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) to oversee and regulate electoral activities. As an independent institution under parliamentary oversight, the IHEC is legally empowered to issue regulations and instructions governing electoral propaganda, in accordance with the Iraqi Constitution, electoral laws, and democratic principles such as transparency, equality, justice, freedom of expression, and the right to political participation.This study examines the legal and institutional framework governing electoral propaganda in Iraq, focusing on how it upholds the principles of fair elections and the peaceful transfer of power. It also explores the mechanisms in place to combat violations, including the introduction of electoral propaganda crimes by the Iraqi legislator, aimed at deterring practices such as violence, fraud, and corruption that threaten the legitimacy of the democratic process. The research situates Iraq’s legal approach within a broader comparative context, analyzing how electoral regulations align with those in other democratic systems where the people are recognized as the ultimate source of authority.