The Impact of Formal Military Militias on the Democratic Transition Process (Iraq in Post-2014)

Abstract

DOI:10.5281/zenodo.7419350 In this research, we identify and deepen the impact and influence of the non-state armed groups on the democratization process in deep-divided societies such as the Iraqi society. At the beginning of the paper, we look at the Kurdish force (Peshmerga) and Shia armed groups (Popular Mobilization Forces – PMF) and assess their legal basis from the Iraqi Post-2003 constitution. Then the role these groups will play in strengthening and supporting a democratic transition also will be discussed in detail. The main question in our paper is to determine the role these mentioned armed groups will play in Post-2014 Iraq, how they will contribute to preserving political stability, and also which position they will take in the democratic transition process. Shia armed groups limited to different levels of roles have been considered, and their influences on human rights, national goals, and corruption in Iraq have also been discussed.