Crime and Pollution in Baghdad

The following data and statistics on crime, pollution, and overall safety in Baghdad are derived from a combination of trusted public sources and insights gathered from over 102 user contributions.This comprehensive approach helps provide a balanced view of the city's crime rates, environmental concerns, air quality, and public safety. By aggregating information from government reports, environmental studies, and direct feedback from residents, we aim offer an up-to-date and thorough analysis of key factors impacting quality of life in Baghdad.

Crime Data in Baghdad

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Baghdad faces significant crime challenges, with a moderate crime index that reflects persistent concerns around safety and security. The city experiences notable issues with violent crimes and incidents of public misconduct.

The perception of public safety varies, with residents expressing a higher level of unease about being alone at night compared to daylight hours.

Some notable concerns include:
  • Property CrimesThe incidence of property crimes, including theft and residential burglary, remains a prevalent concern among Baghdad's residents. The threat of property crime contributes to a sense of insecurity in the city.
  • Drug-Related IssuesInterestingly, drug-related problems appear to be less of a perceived issue among Baghdad's citizens. This may be due to effective policing or underreporting in certain areas.
  • Violent CrimesViolent crimes, such as assaults and robberies, are particularly concerning for the public. They play a significant role in shaping the perception of safety and contribute to the overall crime index level.
  • Public SafetyDaylight hours see a somewhat increased sense of security among residents. However, there remains a strong fear of violent interactions or insults during daily activities.
Crime Trends and Safety
  • Rising Crime ConcernsAlthough there is a slight perception that crime is increasing, this concern does not overwhelm public sentiment as profoundly as in some other regions. Yet, efforts to curb corruption and bribery are paramount.
  • Specific FearsResidents express concern about potential harm or theft, especially in the context of being outside alone at night. Additionally, worries about being victimized due to one's skin color, ethnicity, or religion are notable but not predominant.

Crime Rankings

Baghdad ranks 1st on the Crime rankings in Iraq.
The crime ranking by city for Iraq is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.
Highest to LowestUpdated: Oct, 2025

Pollution Data in Baghdad

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Air quality in Baghdad is a pressing concern, with pollution levels frequently exceeding safe thresholds due to factors such as industrial emissions and traffic-related pollutants.

Particulate matter, including PM2.5 and PM10, is particularly problematic, posing significant health risks to the city’s population.

  • PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter)The concentration of PM2.5 in Baghdad is notably high, reflecting severe pollution levels that can have detrimental health impacts, especially in relation to respiratory and cardiovascular ailments.
  • PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter)PM10 levels also remain alarmingly high, overshadowing other environmental concerns and highlighting the urgent need for pollution control measures.
Waste and Noise Pollution

Baghdad faces significant challenges with waste management, as evidenced by widespread dissatisfaction with garbage disposal services and the city's cleanliness.

Noise and light pollution levels are less significant but still present concerns, primarily in densely populated urban sectors.

  • Garbage Disposal SatisfactionThe satisfaction with garbage disposal services is notably low, exacerbating issues of cleanliness and hygiene in the city.
  • Noise and Light PollutionNoise pollution is a concern in specific areas, though the overall impact on daily life is less severe compared to other urban issues.
Green Spaces and Water Quality

Green spaces in Baghdad are insufficient, which affects residents' quality of life and urban ecological balance.

Furthermore, the quality and accessibility of drinking water are major concerns, deeply affecting daily life and public health.

  • Green and Parks QualityThe lack of adequate green and recreational areas significantly detracts from the urban environment, impacting residents' well-being and recreation opportunities.
  • Drinking Water QualityIssues around drinking water quality and access highlight a critical area in need of improvement to support the health and well-being of Baghdad’s residents.