Iraqi Voices
Iraqi Voices provides expert analysis and insight into major developments in Iraq. Each week, the show examines one key issue, offering context on the country's political, economic, and social landscape. It aims to cut through conjecture and noise to help listeners understand complex events. The podcast is produced by 1001 Iraqi Thoughts.
حلقات
Is Iraq's Political Order Transitioning Away from Consensus Politics?
We look at the recent parliamentary session that approved 11 new ministers and three deputy prime ministers, including why the Ministry of Migration and Displacement remains vacant due to a dispute between Christian political parties, complicated by KDP interests.We then discuss the broader political trajectory. The inclusion of Laith Al-Khazali and other resistance-aligned figures confirms that t
The Politics of Dinar Devaluation and Iraq’s Debt Burden
This week’s episode examines the Zaidi government’s controversial decision to devalue the Iraqi dinar, exploring the fiscal pressures behind the move, who bears responsibility for the crisis, and why the public was caught off guard. We discuss Iraq’s mounting debt burden, new details emerging from the 2027 federal budget draft, and whether the government could have better prepared the public for t
Breaking Iraq’s Cycle of Budget Delays
In a rare departure from Iraq’s chronic budget delays, the draft 2027 Federal Budget Law has been prepared ahead of the statutory timetable and referred to cabinet for approval.In this episode, we examine how the government managed to prepare the budget ahead of schedule and whether this could mark a break from the recurring cycle of delays that has plagued previous budgets. We also discuss what w
The Political Ramifications of Iraq's Fuel Crisis
In this episode, we discuss how the summer-long fuel shortages could impact Iraq’s political scene following this week’s disastrous performance by the Minister of Oil in parliament where he failed to provide a convincing explanation for why oil-rich Iraq experienced a fuel crisis. We examine how mismanagement and poor strategic planning contributed to the crisis and why MPs may now be emboldened t
Examining the Coordination Framework's Evolving Role
In this episode, we discuss the Coordination Framework’s shifting role from a government formation platform to a more permanent body that aspires to manage the strategic affairs of the state. We look at Sheikh Humam Hamoudi’s proposal to restructure the Framework into specialised committees and consider whether its leaders can move beyond narrow party interests. With nine ministries still vacant n
Jobs, Protests, and Corruption in Iraq’s Media Landscape
This week's episode examines the protests by graduates demanding public sector jobs and the politics behind Iraq's bloated public payroll, including potential alternatives, from universal basic income to overhauling subsidies. The conversation then turns to Iraq's anti-corruption campaign, following the arrest of a prominent media personality for bribery and ties to a well-known politician. We exp
Iraq’s Resistance Factions and the Politics of Integration
With the September 30 deadline approaching, the debate over the future of the resistance factions is entering a critical phase. While some factions have signalled their willingness to place their weapons and forces under state authority, others continue to resist disarmament, arguing that the conditions which gave rise to the resistance have not disappeared.This episode examines the pushback from
Assessing the Zaidi Government's First 100 Days
As Prime Minister Zaidi marks his 100th day in office, we assess the government's performance so far, breaking down five areas of focus: anti-corruption raids, demobilization and integration of armed factions, the electricity grid, budget reform and debt management, and the plan to allocate a million plots of land to Iraqis.The conversation digs into why Iraqi governments favor vague, sprawling li
Reflections on Corruption, Foreign Policy and Democratic Development
To mark our 50th episode, we revisit three themes that have defined Iraqi Voices: the fight against corruption and the importance of integrity in leadership, Iraq’s search for a coherent foreign policy, and the country’s democratic development.Three months into Prime Minister Zaidi’s term, we discuss whether the anti-corruption drive reflects genuine institutional reform or simply a change in poli
Zaidi's Balancing Act: Washington, Tehran, and the Anti-Corruption Push
In this episode of Iraqi Voices, the hosts unpack Prime Minister Zaidi's five-day visit to the United States amid nearly 50 agreements signed with American government institutions and firms and discuss whether they can materialize into projects on the ground. The hosts also examine Zaidi's upcoming first official visit to Tehran, debating whether the back-to-back Washington-Tehran itinerary underm
Can Zaidi's Visit to Washington Reset US-Iraq Relations?
Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi made his first official visit to Washington, DC, meeting President Donald Trump in the Oval Office just two months after taking office. But did the visit come too soon?In this episode, the hosts offer their initial assessment of the White House meeting and examine why Washington continues to view Iraq through the prism of Iran, as well as why an Oval Office photo opport
Implications of Iraq's Corruption Crackdown on the Political Order
The wave of high-profile anti-corruption arrests has sent shockwaves through Iraq. But how far are Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi and the judiciary prepared to take this campaign, and what could it mean for the country's political order?In this episode, we examine the political significance of the crackdown and consider whether the arrests could lead to a broader recalibration of Iraq's political lan
Does Iraq's Anti-Corruption Drive Signal Reform or Politicized Justice?
In this episode, the hosts analyze Iraq's accelerating anti-corruption campaign under Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi. The discussion covers the high-profile arrests of senior officials in the ministries of Oil and Electricity, the wave of senior personnel changes sweeping the heart of government, and what it all means for former Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Sudani. The hosts also examine whether this m
Laying Down Arms: Iraq's Paramilitaries and the Push for State Integration
Since the formation of Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi's government, a series of declarations by the Sadrist Movement, Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, and Kata'ib Imam Ali have signaled a growing willingness to abandon armed wings and integrate more fully into the Iraqi state.But what do these declarations actually mean in practice? The hosts unpack the technical process of Hashd integration, examine Sadr's long h
The Case for Statecraft Over Sloganeering in Iraq
In this episode, we assess PM Zaidi's first two weeks in office and discuss why political slogans and broad promises are no longer enough, and why Zaidi will need to articulate clear policy priorities that demonstrate his vision for Iraq and his approach to governing.The conversation also examines the importance of effective public communication in building credibility, particularly at a time of m
Deconstructing the Power Struggle Over Zaidi’s Cabinet
This episode examines the parliamentary session that reshuffled the country's political landscape on May 14. Ali Al-Zaidi was confirmed as prime minister, but only 14 of his 19 proposed ministers won parliamentary approval, while five nominees linked to Nouri Al-Maliki, Masoud Barzani, and Muthanna Al-Samarrai were blocked in what appears to have been a coordinated political maneuver by their riva
Inside the Bargaining Over Iraq’s Next Government
In this episode, we unpack the behind-the-scenes negotiations shaping Iraq’s next government, including the bargaining over ministerial portfolios, the formulas used to divide government positions, and the competing interests driving talks among the political elite. We also examine how Ali Al-Zaidi and his proposed cabinet may attempt to navigate explicit US objections to the inclusion of politica
Ali Al-Zaidi’s Path to Power and What Comes Next
This episode unpacks how Ali Al-Zaidi emerged as the nominee through behind-the-scenes negotiations that ended the political deadlock. The hosts examine the rapid endorsements from Washington and Tehran, and what his cabinet and inner circle could look like. They also discuss the debate over technocratic versus partisan ministers, and assess Zaidi’s early rhetoric, including his claim that the KRG
Ali Al-Zaidi tapped to lead Iraq’s next government
This episode delves into the nomination of Ali Al-Zaidi as prime minister on April 27th. The hosts break down the months-long negotiations within the Coordination Framework and examine who Zaidi is, a banker and business oligarch with no prior experience with public office. The hosts also discuss what his selection reveals about Iraq's democratic process and what the next 30 days of government for
Deadlock over the Nomination of the Prime Minister
Following the election of President Nizar Amedi, Iraq's political elite are scrambling to determine who will lead the next government and struggling to agree on even the most basic rules for making that decision. This episode unpacks the political deal behind Kirkuk's government reshuffle, the KDP's self-defeating parliamentary boycott, and the Coordination Framework's paralysis over nominating a
Iraq's New President: How Amedi Won and Why the KDP Lost
On April 11th, Iraq's parliament elected Nizar Amedi as president of the republic — ending months of political deadlock. This episode breaks down what finally forced parliament to act, why the KDP's strategy failed for the third consecutive time, and what the election of Amedi reveals about shifting alliances in Iraqi politics. The hosts also discuss the calculus behind deciding the next prime min
Can the fragile US-Iran ceasefire halt the violence in Iraq?
This episode discusses the fragile US-Iran ceasefire and what it means for Iraq. The hosts examine Iraq's limited diplomatic leverage, the government's inability to rein in armed factions, the latest moves in parliament toward government formation, and Iraqi Kurdistan’s precarious neutrality, all while Iraqis continue to bear a devastating human cost from the conflict.
Iraq Navigating a Region at War
This episode examines how the regional conflict is shaping Iraq across multiple fronts. It explores the messaging emerging from the religious establishment in Najaf, including its emphasis on international law and restraint. It then assesses the economic fallout, with a focus on resilience and infrastructure pressures. Finally, it looks at the political implications, including the ongoing impasse
Generational Change and Elite Recalibration in Iraq
This episode explores the recent election of Salahuddin’s governor and what it signals about cross-sectarian coalition-building in Iraq’s evolving political landscape. The hosts analyze the growing generational divide between Iraq's old guard politicians and emerging younger leaders, examining how transactional relationships are recalibrating power structures. They also discuss Tom Barrack's recen
Austerity in a Time of Government Formation
The outgoing government recently claimed it had met 88% of the targets set out in its three-year Government Program, even as it announced emergency austerity measures. In this episode, we scrutinize the credibility of that performance rating and examine the deeper fiscal reality behind delayed public sector salaries and pensions. We also ask why transparent and coherent communication about the tru
Iraq's Government Formation Impasse as Ramadan Approaches
This episode examines the ongoing political deadlock in Iraq's government formation process following President Trump's controversial social media post opposing Nouri Al-Maliki's nomination for prime minister. The hosts analyze the impasse within the Coordination Framework, Sudani's prospects for a second term, U.S. and regional interference, Kurdish negotiations over the presidency, and the econo
Trump's Intervention in Iraq's Government Formation
This episode examines the dramatic developments in Iraq's government formation process following President Trump's Truth Social post threatening to withdraw U.S. support if Nouri al-Maliki is chosen to be prime minister. We analyze the Coordination Framework's internal divisions, explore alternatives to Maliki, and discuss the ongoing delays in electing Iraq's president. The conversation also addr
Iraq’s Elite Pact Through the Lens of Government Formation
We explore how the ongoing government formation process sheds light on the underlying elite bargains that shape Iraq’s political system. We examine how power-sharing arrangements are negotiated and contested, what these dynamics reveal about the informal rules governing politics in Iraq, where elite consensus holds, where it begins to fracture, and what this suggests about the trajectory of govern
The End of UNAMI: What Its Departure Means for Iraq
After more than two decades in Iraq, the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq is coming to an end. In this episode, we look back at UNAMI’s mandate since 2003, how its role evolved over time, and the moments that defined its presence in the country. We assess what UNAMI achieved, where it fell short, and what the end of its mandate means for Iraq’s political process, sovereignty, and relatio
Identifying the Next Iraqi Government’s Priorities
This episode examines the core priorities that will confront Iraq’s next government, regardless of who forms it. We discuss the need to consolidate Iraq’s relationship with the United States, strengthen fiscal buffers and curb corruption, and improve the delivery of reliable public services.
Deep Dive into the Election Data
What the election data reveals about the poor performance of Tishreen-aligned parties, and how the Coordination Framework’s method for selecting the nominee for the premiership will shape the final choice.
Initial Reactions to Iraq’s Election Results
In this episode, the Iraqi Voices team offers immediate thoughts on the preliminary election results and analyzes the performance of various coalitions. We also lay out the next steps in the government formation process and discuss the impact of high voter turnout on Iraq’s political dynamics.
Exploring the Regional Implications of Iraq’s Election
International actors, including Iraq’s neighbors, are watching closely as the country heads toward elections. But what should guide their approach once the votes are in and government formation begins? This episode explores regional interests, the dangers of interference, and how external actors can help foster stability instead of undermining the democratic process.
Politics of Fear in Iraq’s Election Campaigns
With Iraq’s election approaching, campaign rhetoric is sliding back into old patterns of fear and division. This episode unpacks how some parties are appealing to identity and insecurity to win votes, and what this reveals about the country’s unresolved questions of governance and power-sharing.
Why Iraq’s 2025 Elections Matter
As Iraq heads toward pivotal parliamentary elections this November, the outcome could reshape power dynamics in Baghdad. The Iraqi Voices team unpack why these elections are so consequential and what’s at stake for Iraq’s stability and democratic consolidation.
Understanding Iraq's Stability Dividend
Iraqi Voices returns after a three-year hiatus. Hassan Hadad, Muhammad Al-Waeli, Ali Al-Mawlawi and Hamzeh Hadad discuss how sustained political calm has translated into a stability dividend and examine what steps are needed to secure long-term prosperity.
Iraq's Trajectory a Year After Elections
Iraqi Voices hosts political analysts Lahib Hagel and Omar Al-Nidawi once again, a year after they joined the podcast to analyse the 2021 early elections, to deconstruct the political developments of the last 12 months and discuss the direction Iraq is headed in
Iraq's Political Violence Deconstructed
Analysts Muhammad Al-Waeli, Ali Al-Mawlawi and Hamzeh Hadad discuss the latest political developments in Iraq including this week's violence between rival parties that led to tens of deaths in the heart of Baghdad.
Iraq’s Political Paralysis Deconstructed
Analysts Muhammad Al-Waeli, Ali Al-Mawlawi and Hamzeh Hadad discuss the latest political developments in Iraq including the Sadrist withdrawal from parliament and the struggle over political and religious leadership.
Iraq Government Formation Special Episode
The makers of Iraqi Voices mark six months since the 2021 Iraqi election with a discussion about the key developments and milestones including the political impasse, Supreme Court rulings and more.
Exploring the Women, Peace & Security Agenda in Iraq
On International Women's Day, we discuss developments regarding Iraqi women's rights and Iraq's place in the global Women, Peace & Security agenda with Dr. Yasmin Chilmeran, a postdoctoral fellow at the Swedish Institute of International Affairs and an expert on gender and civil society in post-conflict settings.
Perspectives on Statebuilding in Post-2003 Iraq
Dr. Shamiran Mako, assistant professor at the Pardee School of Global Affairs at Boston University, discusses statebuilding in post-2003 Iraq and how legacies of exclusion continue to shape politics today.
An Insider's Account of Politics in Iraq's Parliament
Former Member of Parliament Sarkawt Shamsulddin provides unique insights into how Iraq's Parliament really functions, offering anecdotes from his personal interactions with leading powerbrokers, and explains why he thinks young Iraqis need to engage in politics.
Making Sense of Government Formation in Iraq
Iraqi Voices hosts political and economic analyst Hamzeh Hadad, author of the recently published report, “Path to Government Formation in Iraq”. We discuss the first parliamentary session, majority versus consensus government, and the re-sectarianization of electoral politics.
Protests in Iraqi Kurdistan and the Exodus to Europe
Non-resident fellow at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation Mera Jasm Bakr explains the dynamics behind the ongoing protests in Iraqi Kurdistan and the recent wave of Kurdish migration to Europe.
Iraq, COP26, and the Climate Change Challenge
We host Harry Istepanian, an Iraqi energy and water expert to discuss the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference, also known as COP26. Harry talks to us about Iraq's potential to create green economy, water resource challenges, and more.
Elections in the time of Tishreen
Iraqi Voices hosts political analysts Lahib Hagel and Omar Al-Nidawi to discuss the Iraqi parliamentary elections, their significance, and how Iraqis view them in light of the 2019 protest movement and more.
Reclaiming the Historical Narrative: A Conversation with Iraqi Author Ruqaya Izzidien
Iraqi Voices hosts Ruqaya Izzidien, an Iraqi-Welsh author who wrote 'The Watermelon Boys', a novel that chronicles the deceptive history of the British occupation of Iraq following World War I. We discuss her motivation for writing, her Iraqi identity, and upcoming work.
Assessing Iraq-U.S. Relations in Light of Afghanistan
In the wake of the American withdrawal from Afghanistan, Iraqi Voices takes a deep dive into the Iraq-U.S. relationship and asks what healthy bilateral relations could look like.
Iraq's Electricity Sector: Feeling the Heat
Iraqi Voices hosts Ali Al-Saffar, the MENA Programme Manager at the International Energy Agency, to discuss the recent electricity shutdown, the obstacles to reforming the sector, and the energy dependency handcuffing Iraq to unreliable energy supplies.
Where Is Iraqi Kurdistan Heading Under Masrour Barzani?
Since taking office two years ago, KRG prime minister Masrour Barzani has taken an increasingly authoritarian stance on political dissent in Iraqi Kurdistan. Public freedoms have been curtailed, including the unlawful detention of activists and journalists. Kamal Chomani describes this worrying trend and also speaks about the plight of Yazidis and the ongoing Turkish military incursions.
Analysing the Protest Movement's Current Trajectory
Iraqi youth took to the streets this week and demanded answers from the government on numerous assassinations and disappearances of activists. Despite the formation of multiple investigative committees, no one has been held accountable for these crimes. We speak with Sajad Jiyad from The Century Foundation on the protest movement's current trajectory and its potential impact on the upcoming electi
Media Portrayals and Iraqi Solidarity for the Palestinian Cause
The new round of violence in Palestine has captured the world's attention. Iraqis have demonstrated in support of the Palestinian people and against Israeli aggression. We hear from LA Times correspondent Nabih Bulos on how media portrayals have shifted and what Iraqis can do to support the Palestinian cause.
A Primer on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence and the Yazidi Survivors Law
What are best practices for dealing with conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV)? Why is Iraq's Yazidi Survivors Law a landmark legislation and what does it offer to the victims of Daesh? Hajar Baker, a human rights legal researcher, offers some important insights.
How Can Iraq Upgrade Its Banking Sector?
Iraqi Voices hosts Akel Al-Ansari, a commercial banking specialist, to discuss the current state of the banking sector in Iraq and what is needed to fulfill its true potential.
Unpacking Iraq's 2021 Federal Budget
Iraq's parliament approved the contentious 2021 federal budget on March 31. Hassan Hadad and Ali Al-Mawlawi discuss whether the budget reflects aspirations for reform, and unpack issues around the dinar devaluation, the KRG's share, and why it took so long to pass the budget. To read more on dinar devaluation, click here.
Examining Sistani and Najaf Through an Institutional Lens
What does Pope Francis’ meeting with Grand Ayatollah Sistani say about Najaf’s role in Iraq's political and social milieu? Iraqi Voices hosts Dr. Marsin Alshamary to shed light on the intricacies of this role. For background reading on this episode, click here.
The Debacle Over Securing COVID-19 Vaccines for Iraq
A year into the global pandemic, several countries in the Middle East are on track to scale up vaccine rollout, but not Iraq. We examine why this is the case, with policy analyst Ali Al-Mawlawi.For background reading on today’s episode, click here.
