Iraq: Introductory country profile

Following the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003 and the removal of Saddam Hussein from power, Iraq has experienced substantial political instability and extensive periods of armed conflict. In recent years these have included the rise of Islamic State/Daesh, Turkish military action against the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), and attacks by Iran-backed armed and terrorist groups, some of whom hold significant political influence.

This briefing introduces post-2003 Iraqi politics and the state of human rights, trade, and relations with the UK, Iran and the US. It also signposts further reading. Please visit the Library’s Middle East pages for further analysis on the region’s politics.

What does this paper cover?

This 21-page briefing provides an introduction to Iraq’s: 

• Leadership, politics, and political rights, including recent parliamentary elections, major political groupings, and political participation 
• Human rights, such as the rights of women and freedom of religion or belief 
• Trade with the UK and related investment plans 
• Economy, including key statistics on population, economic growth and leading industries 
• Foreign relations, including with the United States, United Kingdom, and Iran. 

The paper signposts further reading on each of these topics on pages 18 to 21. This includes links to recent UK Parliament proceedings on Iraq and relevant Library briefing papers. 

Please visit the Library’s Middle East pages for further analysis on the region.