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As a result of the sustained efforts and valiant performance of Iraq’s security forces, leadership and allies, the defeat of the Islamic State has returned Iraq to more peaceful waters. Daily levels of violence have gone down and its people face a brighter future. Yet, an array of old and new challenges already looms on the horizon, including the upcoming elections, the unresolved Kurdish issue and a profound degree of state capture. Moreover, the problems that created the Islamic State - Sunni marginalization, corruption and self-serving elites - persist. All of this will complicate the reconstruction and reconciliation efforts necessary to forestall more violence in Iraq’s near future.

Iraqi deputy-minister of foreign affairs, His Excellency Mr. Nizar Al-Khairalla, shared his views on these issues. In his wake, Clingendael Research Associate Samar Batrawi and Visiting Fellow Bertus Hendriks offered further observations on the current political situation in Iraq.

The debate was moderated by Clingendael Training and Research Fellow Hans Wurzer.

Programme

• 9.15: Registration with coffee, tea
• 9.30: Keynote by HE Mr. Nizar Al-Khairalla, Iraqi deputy-minister of foreign affairs
• 10.00: Debate on the current political situation in Iraq with Samar Batrawi and Bertus Hendriks
• 11.00: Q&A
• 11.30: Closing