Iraq After Saddam Hussein: Facing Challenges, Securing Gains

Iraq has completed a political transition from the dictatorship of Saddam Hussein to a plural polity that encompasses varying sects and ideological and political factions. That transition has been accomplished through a series of elections that began in 2005, after a one-year occupation period and a subsequent seven-month interim period of Iraqi self-governance. However, disputes over the relative claim of each community on power and economic resources permeate almost every issue in Iraq, including security, elections, economic decision making, and foreign policy. The constant infighting over these issues has contributed to popular frustration over the lack of focus on improving governance and delivery of services. This book examines the politics, governance, and human rights issues facing Iraq today.