Iraq’s political structure is a parliamentary democracy, with a multi-party system and a framework outlined in its constitution. After years of authoritarian rule under Saddam Hussein, Iraq underwent a major political transformation following the 2003 US-led invasion, which led to the overthrow of Hussein’s regime. At the core of Iraq’s political structure is the Council of Representatives, also known as the Parliament. Its members are elected through a proportional representation system, and they are responsible for enacting laws, overseeing the executive branch, and representing the interests of the Iraqi people. The Council of Representatives consists of 329 seats, and its members serve four-year terms.

The executive branch is headed by the Prime Minister, who is nominated by the largest political bloc in the Council of Representatives and then approved by the President. The Prime Minister holds significant power and is responsible for forming the government, appointing ministers, and implementing policies. The President, on the other hand, is elected by the Council of Representatives and serves as the head of state, with a largely ceremonial role. The judiciary in Iraq is an independent branch of government responsible for upholding the rule of law and administering justice. The Higher Judicial Council oversees the judicial system, and the Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in the country. Additionally, Iraq has a federal structure, with power decentralized to regional governments and governorates. The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in the northern part of Iraq has its own autonomous governance, including its own parliament and president, within the broader Iraqi political structure.

It is important to note that Iraq’s political structure faces significant challenges. Ethnic and sectarian divisions, political rivalries, and security issues continue to impact the stability and effectiveness of the government. Additionally, corruption and inadequate service delivery remain significant concerns for the Iraqi population.

Overall, Iraq’s political structure is designed to be a parliamentary democracy, with a balance of power between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. However, the country faces ongoing political and security challenges as it strives to establish stability, inclusivity, and effective governance.