To mark our 50th episode, we revisit three themes that have defined Iraqi Voices: the fight against corruption and the importance of integrity in leadership, Iraq’s search for a coherent foreign policy, and the country’s democratic development.

Three months into Prime Minister Zaidi’s term, we discuss whether the anti-corruption drive reflects genuine institutional reform or simply a change in political will. We also examine the costs of a passive policy of “neutrality” in an increasingly volatile region, and revisit criticism of choosing a prime minister who has never run for office.