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Iraqi Sectarian Politics Contribute To Mismanaged Economy

Sectarian politics has limited Iraq's ability to benefit from qualified economists and financial specialists in top government positions, writes Omar al-Shaher.
An investor monitors share prices on an electronic board at the Iraq Stock Exchange (ISX) in Baghdad , January 7, 2013. REUTERS/Mohammed Ameen (IRAQ - Tags - Tags: BUSINESS)
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One does not need an economics degree to become the minister of finance or to run the economic and investment portfolio in Iraq. A degree in medicine, electrical engineering or even veterinary science is enough to qualify for these positions.

Observers consider the credentials of government officials to be a major obstacle to building a qualified administration, one that can move beyond the transitional phase in which the country has stagnated for a decade.

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