Policing Iraq: Legitimacy, Democracy, and Empire in a Developing State

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 254 pages
Publication date: 09 March 2021
Publisher: University of California Press

Policing Iraq: Rebuilding the Police Force and Criminal Justice System in the Wake of the US Invasion

The book Policing Iraq delves into the compelling story of the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq's unwavering efforts to rebuild their police force and criminal justice system in the aftermath of the US invasion. Conducted by Jesse S. G. Wozniak through extensive ethnographic research during multiple stays in Iraqi Kurdistan, the book offers a firsthand account of significant events that shaped the country's trajectory, including the Arab Spring, the official withdrawal of coalition forces, the rise of the Islamic State, and the subsequent return of US forces.

Wozniak's research takes readers on a deep dive into the day-to-day realities of reconstructing a police force amidst active hostilities. Through his meticulous observations, he vividly portrays how police play a crucial role in the modern state's ability to effectively govern and how the failure to recognize this fundamental aspect contributed to the destabilization of Iraq and the rise of the Islamic State.

What sets Policing Iraq apart is its critical analysis of the reconstruction process. The book challenges the prevailing narrative that the US invasion aimed solely at promoting democracy and stability. Instead, Wozniak argues that the United States had ulterior motives, seeking to develop a dependent client state that would serve its neoimperial interests.

The reconstruction process, as depicted in the book, ignored established practices and scientific knowledge. Instead, it prioritized creating a façade of legitimacy, masking a police force characterized by low pay, poor recruits, and a training regimen wholly unsuited to a constitutional democracy. This misguided approach not only undermined the effectiveness of the police force but also contributed to the erosion of trust between the government and the public.

Wozniak's book sheds light on the complex web of political, economic, and cultural factors that influenced the reconstruction efforts. He highlights the influence of external actors, such as the United States and regional powers, on the decision-making processes and the allocation of resources. He also exposes the internal dynamics within the Kurdish Regional Government, including power struggles, political rivalries, and the challenges faced in building a cohesive and independent police force.

Through his comprehensive analysis, Wozniak offers valuable insights into the complexities of rebuilding a nation's police force and criminal justice system. He emphasizes the importance of transparency, accountability, and the respect for human rights in the process. He also calls for a more holistic approach that considers the social, economic, and political context of the country.

In conclusion, Policing Iraq is a thought-provoking and indispensable book that sheds light on the critical role of police in shaping a nation's future. It challenges the prevailing narratives and provides a nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics that contributed to Iraq's descent into chaos and the rise of the Islamic State. By examining the reconstruction process through the lens of ethnographic research, Wozniak offers a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about the future of Iraq and the role of external actors in shaping its destiny.

Weight: 358g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520355712