Iraq's nascent democracy is growing strong roots. In three nationwide
elections and one constitutional referendum since 2005, Iraqis have
repeatedly embraced the ballot box with enormous conviction,
consistently rejecting disorder and despotism and choosing the forces of
secularism and national unity. Violence in Iraq may continue for some
time but Iraqis, from the political leadership to ordinary citizens,
have proven that the important political questions in their country are
decided in parliament and in the voting booth.
Of course, Iraq's ultimate success faces many serious economic and
political risks. The extraordinary security gains achieved to date are
likely to be challenged at times in parts of the country. Iraq's
political landscape can be fractious and hard to predict. Many legal and
regulatory frameworks are untested. The long-term relationship of the
Kurdistan Region to the rest of Iraq remains uncertain. Iraq continues
to face moments of violence, ongoing sectarian tensions, and outside
interference. NGP's strategy is not predicated on a best-case scenario
for Iraq; rather, it is designed to be successful in conditions similar
to or worse than those the country faces today. Any improvement on
today's conditions represents an additional benefit.