Iraq Development Program - IDP - Iraq's Security Sector

Security

Security will be a crucial factor for the prosperity of Iraq. The country is currently in the midst of a security vacuum, with post-regime change environment providing an unusual setting for the conducting of business in the country Those companies operating or planning to operate within Iraq have a number of security issues to consider, ranging from crisis management, product tampering and loss, terrorism and the risk of having to evacuate.

There is insufficient law enforcement within Iraq, despite the efforts of coalition forces. Up-to-date travel warnings for foreign nationals wishing to visit Iraq are issued regularly by the US Department of State, while US and other coalition country companies have been advised to assess the situation with care before entering the country.

Coalition forces do not have sufficient time or resources to protect all of the organisations and individuals involved in the development of Iraq. The security industry has a crucial role to play, in providing services to visitors working on a both a short term and long term basis in Iraq.

Opportunities are available for suppliers of security and emergency service infrastructure, including ambulances and emergency equipment, fire trucks and fire fighting equipment, and police motorcycles.

There is also a need for closed circuit television, control systems and burglar alarms, perimeter protection, surveillance and telecommunications equipment, IT security, identification processing, and uniforms and protective clothing. Companies dealing in crowd and access control management will also have an important role to play.