Preserving heritage for Iraqi cities: Urban modernization approaches according to expert opinions

Abstract

Iraqi historic cities possess a wealth of architectural and cultural heritage, yet this legacy is increasingly threatened by rapid urbanization, weak institutional coordination, and outdated preservation approaches. This study examines expert perspectives on the effectiveness of existing conservation frameworks for safeguarding urban heritage amid modernization in Iraq. Employing a mixed-method design, the research included a survey of 90 professionals in architecture, urban planning, and cultural preservation, complemented by a review of policy documents and scholarly literature. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses were thematically coded to identify key challenges and solutions. Results reveal that most experts view current heritage policies as ineffective, citing unclear legal regulations, inadequate funding, and limited inter-agency collaboration. Recommended reforms include updating heritage laws, promoting digital preservation, providing economic incentives for adaptive reuse, and fostering community participation. Experts also emphasized the importance of international collaboration to strengthen technical expertise and institutional capacity. The study proposes a comprehensive reform strategy integrating legal, economic, technological, and participatory measures to enhance governance and sustainability in heritage conservation. Its findings aim to guide policymakers, planners, and conservation agencies in Iraq and comparable contexts toward preserving cultural assets in rapidly modernizing urban environments.