The story: Iraq and the United Kingdom have signed a security agreement aimed at combating human trafficking networks primarily based in Iraqi Kurdistan. British officials have touted the deal as a “world-first” step toward curbing irregular migration, and claim its directives will improve regional security. However, the accord’s provisions have come under fire from Iraqis, with critics charging that they fail to address the root causes driving their compatriots to leave their homeland.

The coverage: The memorandum of security cooperation was announced during British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper’s three day...