A year-long series of healthcare, education and inclusion initiatives have reinforced the bank’s evolving role in Iraq’s recovery landscape
In post-conflict economies, corporate social responsibility (CSR) has matured beyond ad hoc philanthropy into a fundamental pillar of institutional credibility. For Iraq’s banking sector, this transition has been gradual but increasingly vital. In 2024, state-owned Trade Bank of Iraq (TBI) significantly expanded its CSR portfolio with a structured, year-round programme targeting workforce inclusion, public health and educational infrastructure. As the bank strengthens its presence in Iraq’s economic rebuilding efforts, these initiatives are being systematically integrated into its broader institutional and community engagement strategy.
Community engagement
Rather than focusing its efforts on a single campaign, TBI delivered more than a dozen targeted interventions throughout 2024. These included the rehabilitation of vocational training halls in Baghdad, support for women entrepreneurs through digital commerce workshops, and breast cancer awareness seminars in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. The bank also backed cultural and environmental initiatives, such as a 9.5km urban greening project on Baghdad’s northern entry road and the continued sponsorship of the historic Akitu festival.
Several other initiatives underscored the bank’s deepening commitment to institutional collaboration. In March, TBI partnered with the Ministry of Interior to host a public seminar on family wellbeing, while its national drug awareness campaign was organised in coordination with the General Directorate of Narcotics. Internally, the bank continued to promote inclusive growth through digital skills training for female staff, alongside public-sector training courses for students and early-career women.
Inclusive development
Although TBI has yet to publish a formal ESG report, its 2024 initiatives reflect a clear movement toward structured social investment. The bank’s efforts have consistently addressed national priorities in education, women’s empowerment, and climate resilience – areas that align with Iraq’s 2030 development strategy and lay a strong foundation for deeper ESG integration in the coming years.
As the country’s financial institutions move toward greater transparency and governance, TBI’s model of sustained, partnership-driven CSR offers a compelling template.
Its initiatives in 2024 demonstrate how long-term socially grounded engagement can enhance institutional credibility in fragile but recovering markets. By embedding year-round CSR efforts across education, healthcare and public awareness, TBI has shown social value and operational relevance can coexist.
In recognition of its contributions to inclusive development, the bank was named winner of the Best CSR Initiative at the Mena Banking Excellence Awards 2025 – Corporate and Investment.