Mustafa Al Kadhimi | Former Prime Minister of Iraq
A veteran advocate for justice and human rights, Mustafa Al Kadhimi is a former Prime Minister of Iraq. Sworn into office in 2020, Mr Al Kadhimi was appointed Prime Minister of Iraq at a moment of significant economic uncertainty and national unrest in the country. Early in his tenure, he implemented far-reaching legislative reforms, restructuring security leadership. He also ensured the release of peaceful protestors from prison, as well as publishing a ‘White Paper’ providing tangible solutions to Iraq’s economic crisis. This roadmap to fiscal health set out more than 200 measures designed to spur economic stability and growth in the country, confronting the influence of armed factions and militias.
Having dedicated his life to public service and human rights, Moustafa Al Kazemi proved a principled and resilient leader. During the reign of Saddam Hussein, he lived in exile due to his early opposition to the regime, residing between the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden and Iran. This experience instilled in Mr Al Kadhimi an unwavering commitment to human rights, democracy and justice.
Education
Mustafa Al Kadhimi graduated from the University of Technology’s National Heritage College in Baghdad, studying electronic engineering before shifting focus and majoring in law. He forged a successful career as a writer, documentary producer and human rights advocate in the years he spent living in exile. Mustafa Al Kadhimi produced documentaries for major TV networks, as well as contributing to multinational media outlets. He also co-founded the Iraq Media Network and led Radio Free Europe in Iraq.
National Intelligence Service
Mustafa Al Kadhimi is widely credited with improving the security landscape in Iraq, having been appointed Director of the country’s National Intelligence Service in 2016. In this role, he implemented ambitious plans, modernising and depoliticising the government agency, placing an increased emphasis on intelligence-driven counter-terrorism strategies.
Diplomacy
Leveraging an extensive network of deep-rooted diplomatic relationships with policymakers across the Arab world, Mustafa Al Kadhimi has spearheaded various partnerships between neighbouring nations, particularly the Jeddah Summit and the Conference for Cooperation and Partnership. Mr Al Kadhimi played an integral role in talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia in June 2022, helping to reestablish dialogue and reduce tensions between the two countries. Mustafa Al Kadhimi is credited with increasing stability and security across the region, with many experts pointing out that discourse between Iran and Saudi Arabia simply would not have been possible without his input. In recognition of this, the French Government awarded Mr Al Kadhimi the Légion d’Honneur, bestowing on this lifelong advocate for peace, justice and human rights France’s highest national order of merit.
