Iraq in Search of Political Stability: The Attempt to Establish Consensus Democracy

The purpose of the present study is to recognize methods of reaching political stability in Iraq since the fall of Saddām Hussein, especially after the defeat of ISIS. The method of study is descriptive-analytic and it is based on the theory of "consensus democracy". The results indicate that the weakness of national and civil identity, domination of tribal culture on political and social life, dependence of some movements on foreign powers, and the tendency of powers to impose their political influence are among challenges in the way of consensus democracy and political stability in the country which can lead to ethnic and tribal violence in political competitions. However, with the defeat of ISIS, the management foundations of ethnic and religious society in Iraq are being strengthened through the balance of multilateral forces between Kurds, Shi'ites, and Sunnis. Continuation of parliamentary election, freedom and peaceful coexistence of Shi'ite, Sunni, and Kurd parties, the non-partisan and tolerant role of Āyatollāh Sistāni, Parliament as the most important institution to build up consensus, the balanced constitution relying on democratic tendencies, relative division of power between Kurds, Shi'ites, and Sunnis are all signs of gradual formation of consensus democracy that little by little can overcome violence and disorder and approach political stability.