A new round of focus groups reveals deep frustration with Iraq’s sectarian divisions, which hin-ders economic development, obstructs an effective response to ISIS and the security situation, delays budget and salary payments, weakens government accountability, and weighs down opinion toward the government and democracy in general. Focus group participants from all backgrounds are frustrated with Iraq’s internal divisions and see more inclusive policies as the top priority of the new government. Some express encouraging signs of cross-sect optimism for new leaders, including Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi who is seen as more diplomatic and less divisive compared to former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. Al-Abadi’s ability to reduce tensions
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Participants predominantly blame foreign interference for the rise of ISIS. The United States is seen as both one of the primary causes of ISIS’s rise as well as the solution to the problem, as their support (not in for the form of ground troops) is necessary to help a weak Iraqi army. Even with the ISIS threat, these Iraqis remain acutely frustrated with the economy and the level of corruption in their country. They view Iraq as a wealthy country, but feel that the oil rev-enue is diverted to the political elite as opposed to average Iraqis, as evidenced by poor living …show more content…
Like Iraq’s majority ethno-religious groups, minorities are primarily concerned with their economic situation and view ISIS as an existential threat that is perpetrating terrible crimes against their communities and families. This security threat, coupled with discrimination in daily living, leads to demands from minorities for new protections, for equal treatment, and a desire for assimilation. Like the majority groups, they see further divisions—such as more autonomous regions and quotas—as counterproductive moves that might perpetuate sectarian divisions.
Participants also view the role of women in political, professional, and family life being hindered by cultural and religious barriers that impact gender equality. Openness to women in leadership positions is limited, and many feel that there are positions that women cannot hold, such as prime minister or minister of defense. Despite both men and women believing women should receive more rights, women participants do not feel that their voices are being heard, even with the government quotas. Mirroring some minorities’ opinion, many participants want to see hiring decisions based on merit, not on
Participants predominantly blame foreign interference for the rise of ISIS. The United States is seen as both one of the primary causes of ISIS’s rise as well as the solution to the problem, as their support (not in for the form of ground troops) is necessary to help a weak Iraqi army. Even with the ISIS threat, these Iraqis remain acutely frustrated with the economy and the level of corruption in their country. They view Iraq as a wealthy country, but feel that the oil rev-enue is diverted to the political elite as opposed to average Iraqis, as evidenced by poor living …show more content…
Like Iraq’s majority ethno-religious groups, minorities are primarily concerned with their economic situation and view ISIS as an existential threat that is perpetrating terrible crimes against their communities and families. This security threat, coupled with discrimination in daily living, leads to demands from minorities for new protections, for equal treatment, and a desire for assimilation. Like the majority groups, they see further divisions—such as more autonomous regions and quotas—as counterproductive moves that might perpetuate sectarian divisions.
Participants also view the role of women in political, professional, and family life being hindered by cultural and religious barriers that impact gender equality. Openness to women in leadership positions is limited, and many feel that there are positions that women cannot hold, such as prime minister or minister of defense. Despite both men and women believing women should receive more rights, women participants do not feel that their voices are being heard, even with the government quotas. Mirroring some minorities’ opinion, many participants want to see hiring decisions based on merit, not on