The case for stronger EU engagement with post-election Iraq

In a show of defiance amid insurgent attacks on polling stations, Iraqis affirmed their commitment to democratic values by voting in large numbers in the general elections on 7 March. The EU played a significant role in the elections, with financial, political and technical assistance before and during the electoral process demonstrating its effectiveness as a political actor.

However, financial assistance and out-of-country training is inadequate to assist the newly-elected government in dealing with the democratisation process and institutional reform. The challenges of the post-election period can only be met with stronger EU engagement through enhanced, coordinated support in the ground, writes Wanda Troszczynska-van Genderen.