Program: Iraq Initiative

The Iraq Initiative provides transatlantic and regional policy makers with unique perspectives and analysis on the ongoing challenges and opportunities facing Iraq as the country tries to build an inclusive political system, attract economic investment, and encourage a vibrant civil society.

Content

In the News

Oct 28, 2025

Taylor joins Rudaw to discuss delays in KRG formation

By Atlantic Council

Democratic Transitions Elections

In the News

Oct 28, 2025

Taylor joins Kurdistan24 to discuss the U.S. partnership with Kurdish leaders

By Atlantic Council

Iraq Politics & Diplomacy

In the News

Oct 28, 2025

Taylor quoted in The Washington Post on the release of a Wells Fargo banker in China

By Atlantic Council

China Politics & Diplomacy

In the News

Oct 28, 2025

Taylor quoted in American University article on the geopolitics of Kurdistan’s gas

By Atlantic Council

Energy & Environment Geopolitics & Energy Security

In the News

Oct 28, 2025

Taylor quoted in the Kurdistan Chronicle on Kurdistan’s natural gas reserves

By Atlantic Council

Energy & Environment Geopolitics & Energy Security

In the News

Oct 28, 2025

American University energy event mentioned in Shams TV on the Iraq electricity crisis

By Atlantic Council

Arabic Economy & Business

In the News

Oct 28, 2025

LaHood quoted from Iraq Initiative event in Rudaw on the U.S.-Iraq security relationship

By Atlantic Council

Iraq Politics & Diplomacy

Issue Brief

Aug 7, 2025

Regenerative farming in Iraq: Challenges, opportunities, and policy recommendations

By Sarkawt Shamsulddin

Despite the challenges and limitations in the current agricultural policies in Iraq, there are significant opportunities for policy intervention to promote regenerative agriculture.

Climate Change & Climate Action Economy & Business
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and his Kurdish counterpart Masrour Barzani sign deal to restart northern oil exports in Baghdad, April 4, 2023.

Report

Jan 6, 2025

Kurdistan’s share of the 2024 Iraqi budget: More than meets the eye

By Ahmed Tabaqchali

How to account for the autonomous Iraqi region of Kurdistan has complicated budgeting in Baghdad in the past. The latest budget cycle may have addressed some of these problems—and may help reset Baghdad-Erbil relations.

Economy & Business Iraq

Report

Nov 6, 2024

Iraq’s 2024 budget: Not what it appears when it first meets the eye

By Ahmed Tabaqchali

Iraq’s budget update seems straightforward but holds hidden complexities. A closer look uncovers discrepancies between appearances and realities, offering insights into Iraq’s fiscal strategy and the structural challenges shaping its economic future.

Economy & Business Iraq
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Experts

Fellow

Akeel Abbas

Nonresident Senior Fellow

Iraq Initiative Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Arabic Human Rights

Fellow

Safwan Al-Amin

Nonresident Senior Fellow

Iraq Initiative Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Arabic English

Fellow

Omar Al-Nidawi

Nonresident Senior Fellow

Iraq Initiative Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Arabic Energy & Environment

Fellow

Rend Al-Rahim

Nonresident Senior Fellow

Iraq Initiative Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Arabic Democratic Transitions

Staff

Nibras Basitkey

Associate Director, Iraq Initiative

Iraq Initiative Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Arabic Economy & Business

Fellow

Jennifer Gavito

Nonresident Senior Fellow

Iraq Initiative Rafik Hariri Center & Middle East programs

Arabic French
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Events

Public Event Mon, April 20, 2026 • 2:30 pm ET

The future of Iraq-Syria relations
Iraq Middle East Politics & Diplomacy Syria
Public Event Wed, May 13, 2026 • 9:00 am ET

The 2026 Iraq Dialogue
Geopolitics & Energy Security Iraq Middle East Politics & Diplomacy