No two thoughtful men would disagree that the implementation of democracy in Iraq in 2003 was a critical turning point, ushering in a new era of progress. Iraq, once the cradle of civilisation, was finally set on the right path after centuries of miasma. For a long time, the country had suffered under darkness, whether during the Ottoman Empire or under the barbaric despotism of the Ba’ath regime.Democracy, which literally means “rule of the people”, originated in Athens in the 5th century BCE. To me, it represents the highest achievement of humanity, shaping politics, philosophy, literature, and other fields of human endeavour. However, democracy in Iraq has not yet been fully realised for several reasons. First, the Iraqi people were not fully prepared to embrace concepts that lay beyond their lived experience and political knowledge. The decades of political indoctrination and intellectual suppression Iraqis suffered halted their catching up with the civilised world.Equally significant, the neighbouring countries reacted to this new project with dismay. The implementation of democracy in Iraq struck fear into their rulers, who dreaded the success of such a globally supported experiment. Consequently, they sought to dismantle the fragile democratic project through terrorism, interference, and economic devastation.Despite these obstacles, the establishment of democracy in Iraq remains a step in the right direction. With time, this immature form of governance will mature and bear fruit. Democracy itself faced criticism even in its birthplace. Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle each expressed doubts about entrusting the masses with decisive power. Plato, for example, feared that mob rule would undermine wise governance, while Aristotle proposed a more balanced system: citizens should have the right to participate, but within a framework of moderation and strict laws.Iraq should take the same proposed measures if its democracy is to be fruitful. Guidance and education of the masses are required; otherwise, the dangers and flaws of the system may overwhelm its advantages.