Iraq's parliament approves full-pay rule for civil servants on extended leave

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's parliament approved legislation guaranteeing civil servants on extended leave their full salaries, in a consensus vote covering absences tied to long-term medical reports, overseas assignments and training. The law prevents deductions from nominal pay during such leave periods and protects financial rights. Under the measure, employees returning from extended leave are guaranteed reinstatement to their previous positions, and their social security and service-combining rights are preserved. Seniority and promotion calculations will not be affected by time spent on qualifying leave. The relevant parliamentary committee said the regulation can be implemented without imposing an additional burden on the national budget, with costs to be covered by the budgets of the respective institutions. Officials said the new rules are intended to make it easier for civil servants to use extended leave and reduce uncertainty in administrative procedures.