BAGHDAD, IRAQ — It has been nearly two decades since the fall of Saddam Hussein, and Iraq’s progress since then remains a topic of debate among international experts and think tanks. While some argue that the country has made significant strides in various sectors, others believe that it has regressed in many ways.
According to a report released by the World Bank in 2021, Iraq’s economy has experienced significant growth since the fall of Saddam Hussein. The report shows that the country’s GDP has increased by 5.5 percent annually since 2003, with a projected growth rate of 4.1 percent in 2023. The report also highlights the country’s diversification efforts, with non-oil sectors such as agriculture, industry, and services contributing to the economy’s growth.
However, despite these positive developments, Iraq continues to face significant challenges. The country remains heavily reliant on its oil sector, which accounts for more than 90 percent of its exports. This dependence on oil has made Iraq vulnerable to global oil price fluctuations, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic when oil prices plummeted, leading to a sharp decline in the country’s revenues.
In addition, Iraq’s security situation remains fragile, with ongoing violence and instability in certain parts of the country. The Global Terrorism Index 2021 ranks Iraq as the fourth most affected country by terrorism, with the Islamic State group still posing a significant threat.
In addition, Iraq’s security situation remains fragile, with ongoing violence and instability in certain parts of the country. The Global Terrorism Index 2021 ranks Iraq as the fourth most affected country by terrorism, with the Islamic State group still posing a significant threat.
According to Nussaibah Younis, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, “Iraq has made progress in many areas, but the progress has been uneven and incomplete. The country still faces significant challenges in terms of security, governance, and corruption.”
Iraq’s political situation is also a cause for concern, with a lack of political stability and frequent government changes. The country has held several parliamentary elections since 2003, but these have been marred by allegations of fraud and low voter turnout. In 2021, Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi formed a new government after months of political deadlock, but the country’s political situation remains fragile.
In a recent report by the International Crisis Group, the think tank highlights the need for political reforms in Iraq, stating that “without fundamental changes to the country’s political system, it is unlikely that Iraq will achieve long-term stability and prosperity.”
The report also points out that corruption remains a significant challenge in Iraq, with the country ranking 160 out of 180 countries on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index 2021. Corruption has led to a lack of basic services, including healthcare and education, and has hindered foreign investment in the country.
According to Dr. Renad Mansour, a senior research fellow at Chatham House, “Iraq’s biggest challenge is corruption. It is an endemic problem that has prevented the country from realizing its potential. Without tackling corruption, Iraq will continue to struggle to attract foreign investment and provide basic services to its citizens.”
In conclusion, while Iraq has made progress in various sectors since the fall of Saddam Hussein, it continues to face significant challenges in terms of security, political stability, and corruption. Addressing these challenges will require significant political will and international support.
