This paper analyzes the economic reconstruction of Iraq following the 2003, U.S-led invasion. Tracing the foundations and trajectory of the reconstruction, I explain how efforts have fallen prey to the four reconstruction traps identified by Coyne and Pellillo (2010). These traps have hampered...

A successful post-conflict reconstruction is characterized by a self-sustaining liberal political, economic and social order that does not rely on external support. It is argued that the extent of reconstructed orders is constrained by their institutional prerequisites. These prerequisites - a...

Economic reconstruction typically takes place after the end of war. Yet recently, economic reconstruction has been viewed as a means to ‘win hearts and minds’ during ongoing conflict. Drawing on a variety of reconstruction experiences from Afghanistan and Iraq, we identify four...