Author(s)

Reem Zeyad Arif

College of International Studies, The American University of Iraq-Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq.

As of today, democracy in Iraq is still in its early stages of development, with the progress of the regime being judged through a static and idealistic view of what democracy should be, neglecting the minor details that are bending the progress of the democratic system in Iraq to fit the community in which it is developing. Tribes have indeed been pushing and challenging the ideal democratic principles imposed on them; often, they do not realize how much they have changed during this process. This research explores the impacts of the negative choices of tribes in the political realm, decoding the complex interplay between tribes and current democratic regime. The study employed a qualitative method of research, interviewing a total of 30 tribal heads, associates, and extended members. The study reveals that tribes in Iraq play a complex role in the nation’s politics, influenced by their historical sacrifices, deep-rooted loyalty, and significant control over certain political regimes. This has led to a strained relationship between tribes and the government. Finally concluding that while tribal actions often deviate from democratic ideals, their active participation in the democratic process ultimately promotes democracy’s appeal among their extensive followers.

Democracy, Middle East, Iraq, Tribes

Arif, R. (2025) Tribes and Democracy in Iraq
—Are Iraqi Tribes a Steppingstone on the Path to Democracy?. Open Journal of Political Science, 15, 242-264. doi: 10.4236/ojps.2025.151015.