In response to the growing threat of sectarianism, MP Thaer al-Jubouri has proposed new legislation to criminalize sectarian incitement and disqualify candidates who engage in such divisive rhetoric.

Prominent religious leaders in Iraq have united in condemning sectarianism, urging for greater solidarity among Muslims and calling for state intervention against divisive rhetoric.

As Iraq approaches its legislative elections on November 11, 2025, the resurgence of sectarian rhetoric has raised alarms among officials and religious leaders about the potential impact on social cohesion.

The painful legacy of sectarian violence, particularly from the civil war years of 2006 to 2007, continues to cast a shadow over Iraqi society, making the current rise in sectarian discourse especially dangerous.

Iraq's political framework, established after the 2003 invasion, is marked by an ethno-sectarian power-sharing arrangement that divides key positions among Shia, Sunni, and Kurdish factions.

Despite the existence of laws aimed at curbing sectarian incitement, legal experts have pointed out the inconsistent enforcement of these regulations, which hampers efforts to effectively combat sectarianism.

The Iraqi government has begun taking action against sectarian incitement, including recent prosecutions for promoting hateful content online and advocating for new legislative reforms.

Analysts warn that the increase in sectarian discourse is being strategically utilized by certain political factions to rally support from divided constituencies, reviving old wounds from Iraq's civil conflict.

With a population exceeding 46 million, Iraq is ethnically and religiously diverse, where Shia Muslims constitute a majority, while significant Sunni and minority communities continue to grapple with historical grievances and power disparities.