Iraq to recycle election campaign posters

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Thousands of campaign posters adorning Iraqi streets will be recycled after the election into materials raising awareness about the environment, the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) announced on Friday.

“A number of election campaign posters across Baghdad and other provinces will be recycled into new environmental awareness materials that comply with environmental and municipal standards and do not distort the appearance of the city, in accordance with applicable laws,” IHEC said in a statement on its website.

The purpose of the initiative, being done in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, is to clean up the streets after the election is over.

It reflects “the Commission’s commitment to strengthening joint work with relevant institutions, helping reduce waste and convert it into materials of national value while enhancing environmental awareness across society,” IHEC said.

Several political entities have expressed willingness to donate their posters to the Ministry of Environment to support government efforts in promoting a culture of protecting the environment.

More than 7,700 candidates are registered as part of 31 alliances, 38 parties, 23 independents, and 56 quota candidates. They are competing for 329 parliamentary seats, including nine reserved for minorities.

The vote takes place on November 11.