“Alternative Methods for Decreasing Infrastructure Deficiencies in Iraq”

Economic Development is closely linked to efficient social and physical infrastructure systems. This paper investigates the impact of this tandem interrelationship with an emphasis on the case study of Iraq. A review of nature of the Iraqi economy and existing conditions of selected infrastructure sectors indicates clear deficiencies. These deficiencies constitute an obstacle to sustainable economic development needed for a steady population growth. Overcoming deficits to infrastructure service levels require the implementation of a Public-Private partnership to catch up with needs and demand. One form of this partnership is the BOT contracts which can accelerate the delivery of services. Existing economic and business environment are not ideal for the local and foreign investors to engage in such contracts, but impediments are diagnosed by concerned governmental entities which may reverse the infrastructure reality in Iraq.