Ali Abu Iraq

Many struggle to find decent work, despite upsurge in investment and development.
Basrans not sure what to make of return of detested former leader’s plaything.
Ma’dan tribal leaders say they will resist impact of oil boom and urbanisation on their traditional culture.
They lament demise of their once-thriving livelihood, hit hard by combination of ecological and industrial problems.
State of Law and Iraqiya blocs appear neck-and-neck as initial elections results released. By Ali Kareem and Ali Abu Iraq in Baghdad and Basra
Iraqi candidates and coalitions are prohibited from using religious references in their campaigns.
Upriver dams cause influx of salt water that’s destroying crops and killing livestock in once verdant Basra region.
UN critical of pace of landmine clearance, warning it’ll be decades before targets met.
Reporter finds local people struggling to revive their ancient lifestyle.