Cutting the Gordian Knot: Formation of a Consociational Government for Post-Saddam Iraq
Abstract
This project explores the prospects and modalities for achieving a best model form of government for post-Saddam Iraq. This "best model" government must reflect the multi-faceted religiopolitical and cultural fabric of Iraqi society. The author envisions an adaptive confederal form of government much like that of Canada or Switzerland consociational in construct. A consociational form of government developed for Iraq must combine elements of federal and communitarian structure that ensure majority voice in government while addressing the minority ethnic and religious diversity of the population. This research will define the applicability of this premise which allows for majority rule and protection of minority rights. Religiopolitical situational awareness is imperative if societal consensus is to be achieved during formation of a new government. The advent of post-Saddam era Shia sectarianism is alarming considering the possible consequences and necessitates immediate measures that can appropriately neutralize or counter a potential extremist religlo-centric government. Simultaneously accommodating Muslim diversity as well as minority and ethnically diverse religious groups is a significant but corollary hurdle that must be overcome. To derive and explain this best model government the research will incorporate various techniques and methodologies. Primary resources will include my personal dialogue experiences and interaction with significant players on the ground in Iraq during the spring of 2003. Secondary resourcing will incorporate an array of professional data from both academic and journalistic sources. A consociational form of government federated and communitarian in construct decisively applied may well cut the Gordian knot' and lead to a representative and stable form of government constructed by Iraqis, for Iraqis, and led by Iraq is.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 19, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA424109
Entities
People
- Kenneth N. Brown
Organizations
- United States Army War College