IWPR
Institute for War & Peace Reporting
The Shia-led alliance that won the election insists that it has no plans to impose a theocratic constitution.
The seat of ancient civilisation has hit the headlines as a target of insurgents.
Petrol earmarked for domestic consumption diverted for sale abroad in well-organised smuggling operation.
Foreign workers are suspected of insurgent attacks but fear persecution if they return to their own country.
Porous frontier with Iran has proved a boon for Iraqi smugglers.