Debate “Iraq after Elections: Between Resilient Status Quo and Drivers of Change”

Date of publication: November 23, 2021

Prague Centre for Middle East Relations (PCMR) of CEVRO Institute organized a debate “Iraq after Elections: Between Resilient Status Quo and Drivers of Change.” The event took place on Thursday, November 18, 2021, 17:00-18:30 at the atrium of the CEVRO Institute (Jungmannova 17, Prague 1). Our distinguished guest was:

• Hiwa Osman, an award winning Iraqi Kurdish journalist, analyst and commentator.

Iraqi held closely observed early parliamentary elections on October 10. While experiencing a record low turnout of 43% under new electoral law, it brought a shakedown in power distribution within Shia, Sunni and Kurdish political landscape alike. Notably, firebrand cleric Muqtada al-Sadr scored an electoral victory, while Iran-leaning Shia actors lost seats. Should we expect significant changes in Iraqi politics or will the resilient status quo of the consensus government prevail? What will be the role of US and Iran the new-post election setting? What implications will it have on Iraqi stability, reform agenda and a prospect for another wave of popular protests?

The event was moderated by Tomáš Kaválek, Director of PCMR of CEVRO Institute.

Hiwa Osman is an award winning Iraqi Kurdish journalist, analyst and commentator. He served as media advisor to President Jalal Talabani between 2005 & 2008. He is a leading commentator and analyst on the politics and media of Kurdistan and Iraq. He is often quoted by the media about Iraq and larger Kurdish affairs in the Middle East.