Strategies for Promoting Democracy in Iraq

Social justice and economic development are essential for democracy in Iraq to succeed.

The idea of a democratic Iraq is not one imposed by foreign powers, but rather one that Iraqis themselves vigorously support.

Iraq has a tradition and history of democracy that can help promote the successful establishment of a democratic form of government in post–Saddam Hussein Iraq.

Many of the foundations of democratic governance began in Iraq's ancient Mesopotamian civilizations.

The nationalist movement in Iraq (1908–1963) had strong democratic impulses and emphasized cultural tolerance.

Sixty percent of the Iraqi population is under the age of twenty-five. They have known nothing but authoritarian rule and need to learn about democracy. The older generation of former democratic activists can pass on to younger Iraqis their memories and experiences of pre-1963 Iraqi society.

The establishment of an institution devoted to democracy could spread the concept of democratic government through workshops, contests, and grants to civil society organizations.

Citizenship and service learning programs in Iraqi universities could promote democratic principles among older students. A national reading project and essay contest could introduce younger students to democracy and strengthen the literary skills that are necessary for an informed citizenry.

The government should use the power of the Internet to involve citizens in the democratic process and improve education. Television and radio programs, coffeehouse events, national "town hall" meetings, summer camps for youth, and emphasis on common folklore could help overcome ethnic differences and promote tolerance and unity among the diverse ethnic cultures of Iraq.

I heard this Rutgers Prof interviewed on radio, specifically shredding the Senate Democrats' resolution to impose a partition on Iraq. He has a book coming out soon, "Taking Democracy in Iraq Seriously." Obviously very sober analysis that does more to trash the leftist "expert" spew that the Democrats cling to than anything else I've seen. This is a very short summary of a long report at the link.

Memories of State, May 7, 2007
By Michael Rubin “Middle East Quarterly” (Washington, DC) - S
In a publishing atmosphere saturated by instant Iraq experts, Rutgers University political scientist Davis presents a rare work of careful scholarship. Memories of State examines the intellectual tyranny of the Baath in Iraq, tracing its efforts to undue the cultural pluralism which once characterized Iraqi society.
Davis begins by describing how Ottoman reform, Iranian constitutionalism, and nascent Arab nationalism combined to shape an Iraqi intelligentsia. With time—and especially after independence—the Arab nationalist trend gained strength. ( Review at Amazon of Davis’ previous book)

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