Accounting Disclosure Policies and their Role in Supporting Financial Inclusion: An Analytical Study of Banks in Iraq

January 2026 , Pages 140-161

Authors

Hariem Abdullah Abdullah 1 ; Hawkar Anwer hamad hamad 2 ; Rabar Rashid Rashid 3

1 Accounting Department, College of Administration and Economics, University of Sulaimani, Kurdistan Region of Iraq

2 Department of Accounting and Finance, College of Administration and Economics, Lebanese French University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq

3 Accounting Department, Cihan University Sulaimaniya, Sulaimani, Kurdistan Region of Iraq

DOI logo 10.17656/12032

Keywords

Abstract

This study examines the role of accounting disclosure policies in supporting financial inclusion within the Iraqi banking sector. Using a panel dataset of 13 commercial banks listed on the Iraqi Stock Exchange over the period 2018–2023, the study applies panel regression techniques, including OLS, EGLS, and RE models. A disclosure index was developed to measure the level of accounting disclosure based on IFRS and Central Bank of Iraq requirements, while financial inclusion was assessed through indicators such as mobile banking users, new accounts opened, POS terminals, SME loan ratios, and electronic payment volumes. The results show that accounting disclosure policies have a significant positive effect on most dimensions of financial inclusion, particularly digital inclusion indicators such as mobile banking, account openings, and POS terminals. However, the relationship with e-payment volumes is weak, suggesting that other factors may influence transactional inclusion. These findings confirm that stronger disclosure practices enhance transparency and trust, thereby promoting the adoption of digital financial services in Iraqi banks. The study recommends that regulators strengthen mandatory disclosure frameworks to further advance financial inclusion and sustainable banking practices in Iraq.

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  • First online10 January 2026
  • Published at10 January 2026

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