Challenges of Global Politics and Their Implications for Iraq: A Study of Regional and International Variables (2003–2025)

Abstract

Global politics has undergone significant transformations since the beginning of the twenty-first century, reshaping political, security, economic, and technological dynamics at both regional and international levels. These shifts have had profound implications for states with complex geopolitical positions, particularly Iraq. Since 2003, Iraq has occupied a central position within a highly volatile regional and international environment, driven by its strategic location and the intersection of competing external interests.

This study analyzes the major challenges arising from these transformations and their impact on Iraq during the period (2003–2025). It focuses on key regional and international variables and examines their effects on Iraq’s internal stability and its evolving regional role. Methodologically, the study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach to assess patterns of interaction and response.

The research is structured into two main sections. The first explores regional challenges and Iraq’s strategies in addressing them, while the second examines international challenges and their broader implications, highlighting Iraq’s efforts to manage external pressures and mitigate their consequences.

The study concludes that, despite the complexity of its geopolitical environment, Iraq has pursued relatively balanced policies that have contributed to maintaining a degree of internal stability. However, persistent external pressures and structural constraints continue to limit its capacity to fully assert an effective and independent regional role.