Economist Puts Iraqi Parliament Staff Costs at 551 Billion Dinars Annually

ANBAR, Iraq — An Iraqi economist has estimated that 12,480 personnel work for the Iraqi parliament and affiliated institutions at an annual cost of 551 billion dinars to the state. Nacil El-Marsumi said the figure represents a significant burden on the national budget. Parliament officials disputed the estimate, arguing the actual number of employees falls well below one-quarter of that figure. The disagreement highlights an ongoing debate over staffing levels within Iraq's legislative body. Observers noted that the practice of placing fictitious names on payrolls has grown notably over the past two decades, drawing criticism from unemployed young people. Analysts said a transparent payroll system could eliminate most of these phantom positions. Experts pointed out that parliaments in democratic countries typically employ between 500 and 800 qualified staff members. The contrast with Iraq's thousands of parliament employees suggests the institution has shifted toward serving as an employment mechanism rather than focusing primarily on legislative functions. Analysts added that the current system facilitates party-based appointments, making reform difficult without political will to establish clearer hiring standards.