An overview of the political, social, economic, and international crises facing Iraq since the US-led invasion in 2003, with a particular focus on events since October 2019, when mass demonstrations resulted in the resignation of the government. Before the COVID-19 pandemic reached the Middle East in early 2020, Iraq was still recovering from its war with ISIL, which displaced more than five million people and caused $88 billion in damage. The presentation will break down the complexities of Iraq’s internal tensions between ethnic groups and religious sects, demographic pressures and oil dependency, and international relations with its neighbors and the USA. This program will be offered through Zoom. Meeting information will be provided by email to registered participants.

Please join the Fort Collins International Center (FCIC), a 501c3 nonprofit, and the Poudre River Public Library District for International Night at the Library program. The program presents a different country or region from around the world each month. All the speakers are volunteers who wish to share their experiences/ cultures with the Fort Collins community. If you are interested in presenting at this program, please contact Mark Oberschmidt at  www.fortcollinsinternationalcenter.org