Introduction Human trafficking is considered one of the most serious crimes that threaten human dignity and fundamental rights, as it is based on exploiting individuals through unlawful means and turning them into objects of profit, control, or exploitation. This crime has become an issue of wide international concern due to its connection with organized crime, the exploitation of vulnerable groups, and its threat to social and human security. Concept of Human Trafficking Human trafficking refers to the recruitment, transportation, harboring, or receipt of persons through the use of threats, force, coercion, deception, abuse of authority, or exploitation of a position of vulnerability, for the purpose of exploiting them in any form. Such exploitation may include forced labor, organized begging, sexual exploitation, slavery, removal of human organs, or other forms that violate human dignity and freedom. Human Trafficking in Iraqi Legislation The Iraqi legislator recognized the seriousness of this crime and enacted the Anti-Human Trafficking Law No. 28 of 2012 as a special legal framework to combat this crime. This law represents an important step in aligning national legislation with international efforts aimed at combating human trafficking, protecting victims, and prosecuting offenders. Iraqi law defines human trafficking broadly, covering the acts, means, and purposes associated with the crime. This definition is important because it does not focus only on the external act, but also examines the means used, such as deception, coercion, or exploitation of vulnerability, as well as the final purpose, which is exploitation. Elements of the Crime of Human Trafficking The crime of human trafficking is based on several main elements. The first element is the criminal conduct, such as recruitment, transportation, harboring, or receipt. The second element is the unlawful means, such as threats, force, deception, abuse of influence, or exploitation of need. The third element is the intent to exploit, which is the purpose sought by the offender through controlling or exploiting the victim. The danger of this crime lies in the fact that it may occur directly or indirectly. It may begin with a false promise of employment, education, marriage, or travel, and then turn into a situation of exploitation and violation of rights. Penalties and Legal Protection Iraqi law does not merely criminalize acts of human trafficking; it also provides deterrent penalties against the perpetrators of these crimes, with aggravated responsibility in cases where the victim belongs to vulnerable groups or when the crime is committed by an organized group or across borders. The law also includes aspects related to victim protection, such as providing medical, psychological, and social care, assistance with reintegration, and suitable housing when needed. The Role of Institutions in Combating the Crime Combating human trafficking requires cooperation among judicial authorities, the Ministry of Interior, healthcare institutions, social agencies, and civil society organizations. This crime cannot be addressed through punishment alone; it also requires prevention, awareness, information exchange, the development of investigative capabilities, and the provision of humanitarian support to victims in a manner that preserves their dignity. Conclusion The crime of human trafficking in Iraqi legislation represents a serious violation of human freedom and dignity. The Anti-Human Trafficking Law No. 28 of 2012 has formed an important foundation for confronting this crime. However, the effectiveness of the law depends on serious implementation, institutional coordination, raising public awareness, and providing real protection for victims. In this way, combating human trafficking becomes not merely a legal text, but a comprehensive humanitarian and legal policy that protects society and supports the rule of law. Al-Mustaqbal University, the First University in Iraq