Iraq at a crossroads
What is preventing the country and its people from moving forward?
For seven long years experts have repeatedly told us that Iraq stands at a crossroads.
Today, optimists point out the achievements that have been made: A new constitution, free elections, a vibrant media and the end of Saddam Hussein’s regime.
But, pessimists point a finger at Iraq’s killing fields, sectarian politics, endemic corruption and the rising influence of dishonest clerics.
But one thing is certain – the country is in a gridlock and no one knows how to move forward.
The recent elections were supposed to give the country a fresh start, but the political wrangling has continued.
So what prevents Iraq from moving forward?
Joining the programme are Robert Fisk, the Independent newspaper’s Middle East correspondent, Anas Altikriti, an Iraqi political analyst, and Jack Burkman, a Republican strategist.
This episode of Inside Iraq can be seen from Friday, May 28, at the following times GMT: Friday: 1730, 2230; Saturday: 0300, 0830; Sunday: 0600, 1230; Monday: 0130.