Iraq's Culture And History Of Corruption Continues As The U.S. Withdraws

Red Tape, Corruption Stifle Iraq's Economy -- New York Times/AP

FALLUJAH, Iraq (AP) — Imad Talib al-Obeidi ticks off 18 places he had to visit to start his bottled water plant: the police, the environment directorate, the health directorate, the city council and the district council, for starters.

He's one of the relatively few Iraqi businessmen stubborn enough to play by the rules.

"Iraq is the country of bribes," al-Obeidi said. "Our main problem is the hostile attitude by government employees in the offices because they show no cooperation, and if you do not pay bribes they will put obstacles in your way."

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My Comment: Iraq's culture of corruption became a permanent fixture in their society when Saddam Hussein expanded his government powers to enforce his rule over the country. But even though Hussein is gone .... the institutions remain. As a result things are not going to change now .... ten years from now .... or a century. But who are we to point fingers when we are not even angels in our own house.