By Ali Marzook
BAGHDAD: Five years after the US invaded Iraq and overthrew Saddam Hussain, it’s hard to see any progress in areas critical to the development of the country.
There is no sign of economic development. The country’s infrastructure is shattered, as is the spirit of its people. There is little optimism for the future. Instead, we are surrounded by fear, depression and violence.
I returned to Baghdad late last year and initially felt hopeful. My neighbours and friends were gone from my old neighbourhood, but the violence was decreasing and security appeared to be improving.
But my optimism vanished the more I explored the capital. Unlike when I left several years ago, the city centre is now surrounded by cement walls resembling a jail. Intended to protect its residents, the barriers succeed only in diminishing Baghdad’s former beauty and greatness.
And the change I witnessed isn’t just physical. Fear has taken over the people, destroying the city’s social fabric.
No one dares to utter a controversial word in front of his friend or neighbours, for fear that the individual may report him to a political party or militia.
When I tried to talk with one man about the current situation in the country, the man’s 19-year-old son interrupted, saying, “Please, we aren’t involved in politics. We don’t know you or your party.”
When I assured him that speaking about issues was not political, he replied, “Everything now is political.”
Most Iraqis look exhausted, the years of tension and nervousness apparent on their faces. You can see it in their eyes: they anticipate death at any moment and around any corner.
People thank God when they arrive home safely to enjoy time with their families. But as night falls, the atmosphere grows dark. Those without private generators sit in darkness, with electricity still in short supply. They worry that some militia or criminal gang will come under the cover of darkness to kill or kidnap them.
The random shooting one can hear every night in the capital only serves to deepen their fears.
The absence of law and order has forced Baghdad residents to adopt a survivalist mindset. Without jobs or the prospect of employment, many turn to crime just to survive.
For amusement, people watch the broadcast sessions of parliament. No one really believes that the lawmakers are there to defend their interests or protect their rights. After years of squabbling and inertia, many view the promised democratic process as a bad joke.
Most people’s bitterness is clear. Officials make promises and speeches, but, having been lied to so often, Iraqis dismiss them. The politicians are considered liars, and the parliament powerless.
Five years after the fall of Saddam, what’s amazing is that there is so little to show for the suffering that the Iraqi people have endured.- The Institute for War & Peace Reporting/MCT
lAli Marzook is a reporter who writes for The Institute for War & Peace Reporting, a nonprofit organisation that trains journalists in areas of conflict. Readers may write to the author at the Institute for War & Peace Reporting, 48 Grays Inn Road, London WC1X 8LT, UK.