Clear Quote by Bob Kerrey
“If you look beyond the short term violence and instability, you do see significant activities on the part of the Iraqi people that indicate they understand the commitment necessary to govern themselves. It's not clear how they will do it, but it never is.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Remarks on Iraq Governance, Bob Kerrey, 2005
Short‑term chaos masks Iraqi citizens’ growing capacity for self‑governance, though future structures remain uncertain.
In simple terms: Iraqis show signs of self‑governance despite current chaos.
Key Takeaway
Recognize emerging local leadership.
Themes
governance
stability
citizen agency
Mood
cautious
optimistic
Type
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- post‑conflict reconstruction
- community organizing
- policy planning
Key Concepts
political development
capacity building
Questions to Reflect On
- How can international actors support emerging Iraqi governance?
- What local initiatives show promise?
A Different Perspective
Unclear how institutions will form; external support may be needed.
![“We have no clear ideas of the agency of [demonic] spirits, nor is it necessary. The Scripture says little to satisfy our curiosity; but tells us plainly that he is always watching us, and desiring to sift us as wheat. I believe we give him no more than his due, when we charge him with having a…” quote by John Newton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c75/john-newton-6629_abundance_we-have-no-clear-ideas-of-the-agency-of_2907.jpg)
