Journal of Historical Research, Law and Policy 3115-7505 3 Serial Number 10 2025 11 19 The Governance System in Contemporary Iraq: From Institutional Fragility to the Prospect of Smart Governance The Governance System in Contemporary Iraq: From Institutional Fragility to the Prospect of Smart Governance 1 13 10.61838/jhrlp.80 EN Journal Article 2025 03 21 <p>Political and institutional developments in Iraq after 2003 have demonstrated that weak governance structures, systemic corruption, the inefficiency of supervisory institutions, and ethno-sectarian divisions have been among the main challenges to the continuity of the state in this country. This study examines the pathology of Iraq’s governance system, focusing on the incomplete democratic transition, elite empowerment processes, and the destructive effects of foreign actors’ interventions. The governmental structure based on ethnic and sectarian quota allocation (muhasasa), although initially designed as a mechanism for inclusion and participation, has in practice led to the strengthening of sectarian identities over national interests, the weakening of the rule of law, and the emergence of a rent-seeking and corruption-based political economy. The analysis of the current situation reveals that Iraq faces a profound paradox: the coexistence of formal democratic structures alongside informal and quasi-state governance. Ultimately, this article outlines a vision for transitioning toward smart governance as a means to enhance transparency, accountability, and institutional efficiency in Iraq, and proposes strategies to reduce dependency on quota-based governance models.</p> https://www.jhrlp.com/index.php/jhrlp/article/download/80/72