Terrorism, Sectarianism, Corruption and the Transition to Democracy In the Post-Saddam Hussein Era in Iraq

The ongoing political conflicts in Iraq are causing an increase in terrorism, sectarianism, and corruption. Eleven years later, since the U.S. invaded Iraq in 2003, Iraq continues to suffer from instability. It continues to lose its citizens through death and emigration, has no institutionalized systems to support the people, increased poverty, and a poor educational system. The continuing terrorism, sectarianism, and corruption (TSC), are the main ingredients for the destabilization of Iraq and could result in devastating civil war. The disagreement among both the political parties and religious leaders allow these issues to persist. Additionally, the early withdrawal of the US troops from Iraq left the country with an unstable regime and insecure streets. The inexperienced political leaders in Iraq cause problems instead of solutions for Iraqi people.;This dissertation examines the political, economic and social situation in Iraq after 2003 and its transition to a democracy in the wake of 40 years of dictatorships. The study also argues the "triangle of hell" is the intersection between terrorism, sectarianism, and corruption which has made its democratic transition more difficult and could lead to civil war in Iraq. The research utilizes a qualitative and illustrative case study approach using data collected from individuals, interviews (e.g., religious figures, social activists), NGOs, the Integrity Department, all three branches of the Iraqi government, participant observation, and various secondary sources (e.g., books, journalism, articles, government reports, specialized web sites, and public opinion).;This study employs a theoretical framework that integrates democratic peace theory, social movement theory, human rights theory, and the theory of conflict resolution. The study concludes with a series of recommendations that encourages patience for Iraq's fledgling democracy. Iraq represents a test case to see if a democracy can survive in an environment in vi which many factions believe it is incompatible with Islamic traditions. For now, however, it is too early to determine if Iraq democracy will endure although it has demonstrated in three national elections that the majority of the people, in spite of intimidation by terrorists and other disgruntled citizens, have voted for and support democracy.