The College of Law at the University of Baghdad held a doctoral dissertation defense in the Private Law Department for researcher Bushra Ridha Mohammed, titled “The Legal Framework of Production-Sharing Oil Contracts.”
The dissertation aimed to analyze the regulation of production-sharing contracts (PSCs) by examining the complex nature of this contractual framework. It sought to rationalize the principles and practices adopted in comparative legal systems that implement this type of contract while adapting relevant aspects to the economic realities, development plans, and legal framework governing Iraq’s oil industry.
The study explored the characteristics of these contracts, the challenges hindering their conclusion, and the legal measures necessary to ensure their validity—preventing nullification or disputes over contract terms. Additionally, it outlined the key contractual provisions that should be incorporated to safeguard the state’s interests.
The study recommended that Iraqi legislators impose an environmental tax on foreign oil companies as a deterrent measure against violations of environmental regulations. It also urged the expedited enactment of the Oil and Gas Law and called for an objective resolution of disputed provisions using feasible legal solutions, given the law’s crucial role in regulating oil sector operations.