The American University in Iraq – Baghdad (AUIB) is pleased to announce that it will confer an Honorary Doctorate of Laws (Honoris Causa) upon Dr. Faiq Zaidan during its 2026 Commencement Ceremony on 23 May 2026, which will take place at AUIB Campus in Baghdad.
As AUIB prepares to celebrate its second graduating class, this milestone reflects the University’s continued growth and its expanding role in advancing higher education in Iraq.
The honorary degree recognizes distinguished leadership and lasting contributions to the rule of law, public service, and institutional development.
“Conferring this honorary degree reflects AUIB’s core values-excellence, integrity, and leadership,” said Dr. Bradley Cook, President of AUIB. “Dr. Faiq Zaidan’s career represents a deep and enduring commitment to justice and the strengthening of legal institutions in Iraq. It is a privilege to recognize his contributions as we celebrate another important chapter in our university’s journey.”
The 2026 Commencement Ceremony will bring together graduates, families, faculty, and distinguished guests to celebrate academic achievement and mark the continued success of AUIB’s academic mission. Building on the momentum of its inaugural class, the University remains dedicated to preparing future leaders equipped to contribute meaningfully to society.
About Dr. Faiq Zaidan
Dr. Faiq Zaidan is a prominent Iraqi jurist and legal scholar who currently serves as the President of the Supreme Judicial Council of Iraq and the President of the Federal Court of Cassation. Born in Baghdad in 1967, he began his career as a lawyer before becoming a judge in 1999. Over the years, he has held several senior judicial positions, including leading Iraq’s Central Criminal Court specializing in terrorism and major crimes.
He holds degrees in law from the University of Baghdad, as well as advanced postgraduate qualifications in international and public law from the Islamic University of Lebanon. Since assuming leadership of Iraq’s highest judicial bodies, Dr. Zaidan has played a key role in strengthening judicial institutions and fostering international cooperation with legal systems in countries such as the United Kingdom, France, and the United Arab Emirates.
His career reflects decades of service to the development of Iraq’s legal system and the promotion of judicial dialogue on both national and international levels.
