Bangkok: The Asian Association of Constitutional Courts and Equivalent Institutions (AACC) has officially accepted the Central Supreme Court of the Republic of Iraq as its 22nd member. This decision marks a significant development in enhancing the status of the international constitutional court and strengthening bilateral relations between Thailand and Iraq.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nakarin Mektrairat, the President of the Constitutional Court and Chairman of the AACC, announced that the Association’s Member Committee resolved to accept the Federal Supreme Court of Iraq as a member. The court has been invited to participate in the 7th AACC Congress, which will be hosted by Uzbekistan during 2025-2027.

Mr. Nakarin disclosed that the Supreme Court of the Republic of Iraq applied for membership following the established procedure. During the meeting, 18 out of 21 countries supported Iraq’s membership, which exceeded the required two-thirds majority. With this addition, the AACC will expand to 22 member countries by 2025, a significant increase from its original 7 members in 2011.

The Thai Constitutional Court highlighted that Iraq’s membership in the AACC will enhance the Association’s operations in the global constitutional court forum and improve bilateral relations with Iraq. Information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs suggests that Iraq is considering reopening its embassy in Thailand, a move that could impact petroleum energy options.

Despite not having a formal Constitutional Court, Iraq’s Supreme Court has a Constitutional Division. As a member, Iraq will engage in exchanges and receive academic assistance, reflecting the universal occurrence of constitutional conflicts. Membership conditions require a court to adhere to international principles and meet accepted standards.

Additionally, Timor-Leste has expressed interest in joining the association, indicating a growing recognition of the importance of constitutional law across nations.