The Criminal Framework for the Protection of Labor Relations under Iraqi Law No. 37 of 2015 (An Analytical Study)

Labor relations are a key economic and social foundation requiring legal protection. The Iraqi Labor Law No. (37) of 2015 set criminal provisions to safeguard workers’ rights and balance them with employers’ interests. This study examines these provisions, their effectiveness in deterrence and protecting vulnerable groups, while practical application reveals legislative gaps, vague texts, and weak enforcement. The research covers the law since 2015 in Iraq, with international comparisons, and ends with recommendations to strengthen criminal protection of labor relations. Labor relations are an economic and social foundation that requires strong legal protection. Iraqi Labor Law No. (37) of 2015 established a legislative framework that includes penal provisions aimed at preserving workers' rights and ensuring a balance with employers. The importance of the study lies in analyzing these provisions and evaluating their effectiveness in achieving deterrence, protecting vulnerable groups, and promoting social justice. However, practical application revealed legislative shortcomings and ambiguity in some articles, as well as weaknesses in inspection, oversight, and legal awareness mechanisms, which weakened the effectiveness of protection. The study is limited to analyzing penal provisions from the law's entry into force in 2015 to the present day, within the scope of Iraq, with the use of international comparisons when necessary. The plan is based on an introductory section on the basis of protection, followed by a study of crimes that violate freedom, dignity, and the protection of special groups, followed by a study of crimes related to working conditions and occupational safety.