Iraq remains absent from the Global Innovation Index for the second year in a row. The index, prepared by the World Intellectual Property Organization, measures global economies using seven key pillars. These pillars include investment, institutions, human capital, infrastructure, market sophistication, business sophistication, and knowledge and technology outputs.
Iraq absent from Global Innovation Index signals challenges for the country’s economic and technological progress. While many nations in the region advanced in rankings, Iraq failed to appear in the report. This continued absence highlights the urgent need for stronger policies that encourage innovation and investment.
Meanwhile, Switzerland secured the top position globally with strong performance across all pillars. It was followed closely by Sweden, the United States, South Korea, and Singapore. These countries achieved high scores because of strong institutions, advanced technology, and effective innovation strategies.
Arab countries, on the other hand, showed varied results. The United Arab Emirates led the region and secured a high global position. Saudi Arabia and Qatar followed with steady improvements in their innovation systems. Other Arab states such as Morocco, Bahrain, Jordan, and Oman maintained places within the global rankings. Tunisia, Kuwait, and Egypt also made the list, but at lower positions.
In contrast, Iraq absent from Global Innovation Index reveals missed opportunities. Neighboring countries continue to push forward with innovation programs while Iraq lags behind. To reverse this trend, Iraq must increase investments in infrastructure, education, and technology. These steps can help the country rejoin the index and compete regionally.
Observers stress that Iraq absent from Global Innovation Index should be a wake-up call. The country must develop a clear strategy for innovation-driven growth. By focusing on entrepreneurship and knowledge-based industries, Iraq can move closer to regional peers and global standards.