Utilizing Artificial Intelligence in Geographic Research Between the Efficiency of Spatial Analysis and the Constraints of Research Ethics: Iraq as a Model

Abstract

Geographical studies have witnessed significant development due to the adoption of modern digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), which has enhanced spatial analysis efficiency and the processing of data and satellite imagery. The research findings indicate that the global use of these technologies increased from approximately (12%) in (2015) to (64%) in (2024), while in Iraq, the use of Geographic Information Systems reached about (48%), remote sensing (32%), and AI applications only (20%). Environmental challenges in Iraq, such as desertification affecting around (39%) of agricultural lands and a (30%) decline in water resources, can be addressed through intelligent spatial analysis. The accuracy of spatial analysis was found to depend heavily on data quality, reaching (92%) with high-quality data and dropping to (63%) with low-quality data. Transparency in studies varies across regions, with (82%) in the United States, (78%) in Europe, and only (42%) in some Arab studies. The results also emphasize the importance of adhering to ethical guidelines, including scientific transparency, data accuracy, and result verification, to ensure the responsible use of modern technologies and improve research outputs for developmental decision-making.