This year was relatively kind to Iraq. The country remained safe and stable, and this has allowed important infrastructure projects in the centre of Baghdad to reach fruition. Meanwhile, many other projects are in the pipeline. Many Iraqis still find it difficult to be satisfied after around half a century of underinvestment, but some progress is being made. Much of Baghdad had previously fallen into a state of disrepair so desperate that many older Iraqis considered it irredeemable. But now many places have been renovated and a vibrant social scene is emerging.
Iraq is also the only country connected to Iran’s “axis of resistance” that was not attacked by Israel this year. And yet another parliamentary election has come and gone relatively normally, too. The incumbent Prime Minister, Mohamed Shia Al Sudani, made a strong showing, but nowhere near enough to guarantee a second term. However, it is widely expected that whatever new government will be formed will include a broad tent of political groups and will generally continue many of the same investment policies.
Of course, while the political system is stable, it remains corrupt and entirely reliant on hydrocarbons.
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