Introduction

Abstract

The political, social, economic, and physical recovery following armed conflict is an enormous challenge for any state, but particularly for Iraq, given its extensive history of authoritarianism, failed state-building, and conflict. While the territorial defeat of ISIS presents an opportunity to alter this violent course and address the root causes of violence, it will be a difficult process. This introductory chapter presents the main themes of the book, such as governance, inter- and intra-communal conflict, security, transitional justice, and elaborates on the contributions within it.