From Crisis to Foresight: Dynamics of Political Systems and Legal Governance in Iraq in 2026

Abstract

This research examines the problem of managing political crises in Iraq and the extent to which the legal and administrative framework is capable of regulating the institutional response to such crises, in light of the political, administrative, and economic challenges facing state institutions. The research is based on the hypothesis that the effectiveness of crisis management does not depend solely on political responses, but rather requires integration between political legitimacy and the legal rules governing administrative action, thereby ensuring clarity of competencies, continuity of public services, and the enhancement of institutional oversight and accountability. The research aims to analyze the nature of the challenges facing political crisis management in Iraq, examine the role of administrative law in regulating the institutional response, and explore the future directions of the legal and administrative framework in light of institutional and technological transformations and the requirements of governance. The research adopts an analytical approach through examining the relevant political, legal, and institutional frameworks, while employing a prospective approach to identify future trends and challenges. The research concludes that the effectiveness of crisis response in Iraq is influenced by the clarity of legal frameworks governing institutional competencies, the level of coordination among institutions, the efficiency of oversight and accountability mechanisms, and the capacity of public administration to keep pace with digital transformation and technological developments. The analysis also demonstrates the need to develop the legal and administrative framework in a manner that strengthens institutional capacity to address crises while achieving a balance between the requirements of administrative effectiveness, the guarantees of legality, and the protection of rights. The research recommends developing administrative legislation related to crisis management, strengthening institutional coordination, supporting the independence and effectiveness of oversight bodies, expanding the application of digital transformation and governance, and adopting prospective mechanisms that assist state institutions in moving from crisis response toward early preparedness.