Abstract
This paper examines the challenges that Post-Saddam Iraqi Kurdistan faces in developing a sustainable petroleum sector. The newly established national constitution was a significant step that left as many petroleum questions unanswered, as answered. The constitution, not only separated branches of government, but established Federalism as its lodestar. Still, due to unresolved issues over regional and national control over petroleum resources, oil companies function in a hazy legal environment.
The first part of the paper discusses the past and current state of the Kurdish region's oil development, and notes future prospects for development. The second part draws on constitutional and legal sources to analyze the division of responsibilities among the regions and the national government. This paper shows that firm guidelines are essential to encourage investment and expeditiously rebuild Iraq's shattered Petroleum sector.