Iraq: Causes and Consequences of the Present Crisis

Speakers: Toby Dodge, Faleh Jabar Chair: Sami Zubaida, Birkbeck, University of London The seizure of Mosul by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant and their rapid move south towards Baghdad has thrown Iraq into another post-regime change crisis. This panel examines the identity and background of the fighters in northern Iraq, as well as the root causes behind the violence and explains why the Iraqi armed forces, comprising over a million men under arms, collapsed so quickly. It explains how the political and constitutional system, set up in the aftermath of regime change, has contributed to the current situation. The speakers also discuss the consequences of the current crisis and what it means for the future of Iraq. Recorded on 26 June 2014.