The Impact Of Corporate Governance Mechanisms On Tax Avoidance Practices

Abstract

Ali A. Ali Bash* and Faten Zoghlami

This research came with the aim of showing the impact of governance mechanisms on tax avoidance practices, and in light of this, the financial data of the joint stock companies (industrial, service, agricultural, and hotels) listed in the Iraq Stock Exchange amounting to (35) companies were collected during the period (2009-2020). Through the financial reports published on the market website, multiple linear regression analysis was used as a tool to study the relationship between variables, and (Eviews 12) program was used for analysis and hypothesis testing. To achieve the objectives of the research, (administrative ownership, board size, board independence, women's membership) was adopted as an indicator of the dimensions of governance, and tax avoidance was measured through the effective tax rate. The research concluded that there is a positive impact of administrative ownership and women's membership on tax avoidance practices, as confirmed there is no effect of board size and independence on tax avoidance. The research has reached a set of conclusions, the most important of which are: The method of applying governance mechanisms is one of the main pillars in enhancing competitive capabilities and reorganizing companies' businesses to help them achieve their goals and those of their clients. The research presented a number of recommendations, the most prominent of which were: the necessity of developing a legal and regulatory framework in Iraq that governs the work of joint-stock companies listed within the Iraq Stock Exchange in light of the preparation of principles and mechanisms for governance in a clear and explicit way, to reduce the negative effects and opportunistic practices associated with tax avoidance, and in a manner that is compatible with developments in the financial and legal environment.