Baghdad remains one of the clearest examples of why specialist insurance matters. It is a city where professional travel still happens, but where standard policies may not be built for the reality of the operating environment.
This is specialist cover designed for journalists, NGOs, contractors, researchers, corporate teams and other professionals whose work still requires them to be there.
What's included
Designed for non-combatants working in environments where standard insurance often fails.
Baghdad is not a routine destination from an insurance point of view.
Having a policy is not enough on its own. What matters is whether the cover is built for the truth of the location — and whether there is a clear route to support if something goes wrong.
Yes — Conflict Cover provides specialist insurance for Baghdad, Iraq.
Subject to full disclosure of your assignment, operating area and security arrangements. This cover is designed for journalists, NGO workers, contractors and other non-combatants who have a legitimate professional reason to be there.
City context
The situation
Baghdad has undergone significant security improvements since the height of the IS conflict but remains a complex operating environment. The Green Zone — which houses international embassies, government institutions and major international organisations — is the primary operating base for most international staff and has its own security perimeter.
Outside the Green Zone, conditions vary significantly by district. Iran-backed militia groups maintain a presence and influence across parts of the city. Targeted attacks on international interests — including rocket attacks on the Green Zone and drone attacks on diplomatic facilities — continue, though at a lower intensity than during the 2019-2020 peak.
Baghdad also functions as the staging point for operations elsewhere in Iraq. For journalists, NGO workers and contractors, Baghdad's international airport is the primary entry and exit point. Movement to and from the airport requires careful planning and often an armed escort component.
What to watch
Why it can be challenging
Rocket and drone attacks on the Green Zone
Iran-backed militia groups periodically attack the Green Zone with rockets and drones targeting US and international interests. These attacks are unpredictable and can affect any facility within or near the zone.
Kidnapping risk for international staff
Baghdad carries genuine kidnapping risk for international staff, particularly those moving outside the Green Zone without appropriate security. Kidnapping for ransom and politically motivated abductions have both occurred.
Militia-controlled checkpoints and movement restriction
Iran-backed militias operate checkpoints in parts of Baghdad and control access to certain areas. International staff can be stopped, questioned or detained at these checkpoints.
IED and complex attacks in commercial areas
Although greatly reduced from the IS peak, IED attacks have continued in Baghdad. Commercial areas, markets and public gatherings remain targets. Movement planning should account for attack risk in crowded areas.
Can you get insurance for Baghdad?
We provide specialist insurance for non-combatants travelling to Baghdad for professional and operational reasons.
This cover is designed for real working conditions in a city where movement, security, infrastructure and access can all affect risk.
Why this matters in Baghdad
Baghdad is not a routine destination from an insurance point of view. Serious work travel does happen here, but it takes place in a context where the operating environment can become more difficult quickly.
That means having a policy is not enough on its own. What matters is whether the cover is built for the truth of the location and whether there is a clear route to support if something goes wrong.
That is where specialist cover matters.
Practical relevance
Cover for work travel in a city where security, infrastructure and movement can all affect operational planning and risk.
Medical treatment following an incident during deployment or assignment where local facilities may be limited.
Need for evacuation where security or access conditions deteriorate at short notice.
Support for NGOs, journalists, contractors and operational teams working under pressure in a demanding environment.
Emergency support
NGS provides 24/7 support. They can assess the situation, help coordinate treatment, support evacuation where required, and manage the case through to a safer outcome.
You are not relying on a standard policy alone. You have access to practical support if the situation becomes more difficult.
Continuity
Yes. Eligible personal accident benefits can continue after you return to your country of domicile, subject to the policy terms.
That helps provide continuity if the impact of an incident continues after you leave the country.
Exclusions
Being clear about exclusions helps buyers know exactly what this policy is for and where separate cover may be needed.
This policy is designed to protect people, not possessions.
Cover not included
Activity exclusions
Property exclusions
These covers can be arranged separately if required.
Threat intelligence
For a deeper understanding of the current situation, including operational risks and regional dynamics, see our threat intelligence hub.
Common questions
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