Columbia International Affairs Online: Working Papers

CIAO DATE: 09/2010

Iraq After the Election: Meeting the Challenges of 2010

Anthony H. Cordesman

August 2010

Center for Strategic and International Studies

Abstract

Key Challenges in 2010

•Paralysis by democracy : lack of national unity government
•Lack of government effectiveness and capacity at every level
•Remnants of insurgency and possible revival
•Sectarian and ethnic challenges
•Budget crisis, crippled economy, loss of foreign aid
•Halt in progress in developing Iraqi security forces
•Coming US withdrawal
•Uncertain neighbors