Is Austerity the Most Effective Policy to Solve the Present Financial Crisis?
July 19th, 2016 by MERI
The current policy of reducing salaries, focusing on a single sector of the economy, and putting extra pressure on low and middle income families is an unsuitable response to the on-going financial crisis and will likely dampen and delay economic recovery.
Averting an Economic Meltdown in the KRI: Aligning Political Objectives with Economic Necessities
July 17th, 2016 by Athanasios Manis
This Report analyses the crucial aspects of the current economic crisis and the KRG’s immediate response. The author argues that it is only when the economic meltdown is averted in the short-term that the KRG will be able to proceed with deep structural reforms.
The Battle for Mosul: Pre and Post ‘Liberation’ Planning
July 11th, 2016 by MERI
The occupation of Mosul by the Islamic State (IS) has become an issue of global importance. The liberation of the city is seen as a symbol for defeating IS in Iraq and there is international pressure to press ahead and begin the process. Herein lies the problem.
Time for a Radical Rethink. Full report on the MERI Economic Forum 2016
July 12th, 2016 by MERI
This first MERI Economic Forum explored the challenges and policy options available to mitigate the current economic crisis in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq. The title, “Time for a Radical Rethink,” was reflected in the debates that resulted in actionable recommendations for the government and private sector.
The Path to Diversification: Gaining from Exchange Rate Flexibility
June 9th, 2016 by MERI
If Iraq is keen to diversify its economy, the Central Bank of Iraq should drop its current pegging (fixed) exchange rate policy and let the market determine the value of the Iraqi Dinar.
Defeating the Islamic State will take more than Gunpowder
June 2nd, 2016 by MERI
Attempting to defeat IS without beginning to address the political and structural failures that have led to these circumstances borders on the ridiculous.
US Policy in Iraq – Four Steps Back, Two Steps Forward
May 22nd, 2016 by MERI
What happens over the next few months will decide Iraq’s future, whether that is federalism, confederalism or its breakup. One thing is clear – the US has a role to play.
Compliance of Armed Forces with International Humanitarian Law
May 2nd, 2016 by MERI
This initiative is aimed at raising awareness of the norms and principles of IHL at all levels of Peshmerga forces; developing comprehensive mechanisms and policy recommendations that support compliance with IHL; and demonstrating the Peshmerga’s commitment to protecting fundamental human rights during times of war.
The Future of Tourism in Iraqi Kurdistan: Opportunities and Challenges
April 25th, 2016 by MERI
An assessment of growth since 2007 highlights a number of shortcomings in KRG strategy that have harmed efforts to promote tourism beyond budgetary and security issues.
Should Kurdistan establish a Basic Health Services Package?
April 14th, 2016 by MERI
Kurdistan region of Iraq is experiencing significant political, economic and social challenges. It became fragile in a short period of time. In these circumstances, a Basic Health Services Package is an appropriate first step to provide essential health services.