Ninety-six (96) local, regional, and international organizations and entities (prime actors) were identified by their peers as influential in the life of Syria. In the chart below, the left column ranks the prime actors from most influential in shaping the life in Syria (Russia) to the least influential (Relief International).

The chart also shows the classification of prime actors into five stances indicating the actor's support and contribution to inclusive nationalism for Syria, starting from the most committed (Core) to the least committed (Saboteur).

Amount of influence of Iraq in the life of Syria, and the commitment of Iraq to inclusive nationalism for Syria.

25 prime actors participated in the following:

  • Determining the rank of Iraq according to the amount of its influence on life in Syria. As shown in the chart below, Iraq ranked 25th most influential prime actor.
  • Assessing and classifying Iraq according to its commitment to inclusive nationalism for Syria (also indicated in the same row by the colored rectangle). Of the 25 prime actors who participated in the assessments, more agreed that Iraq falls under the category of 'Follower'. A prime actor assessed as Follower is seen as willing to build a sovereign, stable, inclusive, and developing Syria, but only when it serves its own interests.
Syria R3 PA Iraq x.jpg

In response to the question, “How is Iraq important in the life of Syria?” 

Round 3 participants stated (Nov. 2016 - Jul. 2017):

"Iraq is important because of its inability to control its own borders.” (239312)

"Iraq is only important for its fighting forces.” (230713)

"Iraq is an instrument in the hands of Iran. They are fighting IS, but they will be affected by the international sanctions on Iran.” (233881)


Round 2 participants stated (Aug. 2016 - Oct. 2017):

“They are part of the Shia Crescent, therefore always interested in Syria. Iran uses Iraq to keep balance.” (221641)

“Deeply involved in ethnic and sectarian policy. They are a highway for Iranians coming to Syria.” (220291)

“They send terrorists to Syria.” (221211)

“They will always have influence in Syria. They will have good relations, not opposing, not tight.” (221641)

“Iraq is closest to the Syrian regime of the Arab countries, so they can carry messages. Also, they are important because of their role in the fight against ISIL.” (223911)