Analysis Analysis and measurement of the role of public debt in financing Iraq's sustainable development for the period 1990-2022

الملخص

Given the growing public debt burden and the volatility of global oil prices — the primary source of budget revenues — this study examines the economic impact of public debt on sustainable development in Iraq from 1990 to 2022. Using modern econometric models and quarterly time series data, the research analyzes the relationship between domestic and external public debt, economic growth, and sustainable development.

The study aims to identify the short- and long-term effects of public debt on growth and sustainability and clarify how oil price volatility affects this relationship. The results indicate that domestic debt has a less negative impact than external debt. While external debt supports expenditures in the short term, it increases long-term risks due to repayment obligations. The results also indicate weak links between high debt and sustainable development outcomes, reflecting the inefficient use of borrowed resources. Heavy reliance on oil revenues exacerbates the economy's vulnerability to external shocks. The study concluded with a set of recommendations: adopt wise debt management strategies; direct borrowing toward productive and developmental sectors; enhance transparency and institutional efficiency; diversify the economy to reduce dependence on oil; and cooperate with international financial institutions to design debt sustainability policies consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals.