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Iraq's Legislative Crisis

As political and social divisions deepen throughout Iraqi society, Mustafa al-Kadhimi calls attention to the legislative negligence that has allowed this worrying crisis to grow.
Members from peace groups gather around a peace sign formed by lighted candles, remembering the tenth anniversary of the Iraq War at Plaza de Catalunya, central Barcelona March 20, 2013.         REUTERS/Gustau Nacarino  (SPAIN - Tags: CIVIL UNREST) - RTR3F8PV
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Everybody in Iraq agrees that the slogans, statements and stands that were declared at the same time as the advertising campaigns of the local elections of the Iraqi provinces carried an escalating sectarian, regional and exclusionary tone. Moreover, no political party in Iraq has steered clear of this excessive use of incitement, intimidation and threatening strategy in the elections.

This reality might reveal the political parties’ tenuous belief in coexistence, yet it also indicates the absence of laws that govern the rhythm of political escalation and prevent it from turning into social division or threats of violence.

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