Iraq's 2025 Elections: Low Turnout and Significant Boycotts Amid Regional Instability

On November 11, 2025, Iraq conducted its sixth parliamentary elections since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion that ousted Saddam Hussein. The elections were marked by low voter turnout, significant political boycotts, and a backdrop of regional instability.

Approximately 21 million Iraqis were eligible to vote, choosing from 7,744 candidates vying for 329 seats in the Council of Representatives. By midday, the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) reported a voter turnout of 23.9%, with 4,795,685 ballots cast. Salah al-Din province recorded the highest participation at 31.57%, while Maysan had the lowest at 16.63%. These figures suggest a final turnout potentially lower than the 41% recorded in the 2021 elections.

The influential Sadrist Movement, led by cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, boycotted the elections, significantly impacting voter turnout, particularly in strongholds like Sadr City, where polling stations were nearly empty. This boycott reflects widespread public disillusionment with the political system, citing corruption, poor services, and high unemployment.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani sought a second term, leading the Coalition for Reconstruction and Development. His tenure has been marked by infrastructure projects and efforts to maintain stability amid regional tensions. Al-Sudani emphasized a nationalist agenda, advocating for Iraq's sovereignty and balanced foreign relations. His coalition was anticipated to win the most seats but likely fall short of a majority, necessitating extended post-election negotiations among Shiite, Sunni, and Kurdish factions.

The elections were conducted under tight security due to regional instability, including conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and between Israel and Iran. In Kirkuk, violence erupted the night before the vote, resulting in the deaths of two police officers and heightening tensions in the already divided city. Authorities reported 46 arrests for voter card fraud and the seizure of 1,841 illicit cards. Additionally, Iraq's top judicial authority questioned the legality of the election's date, potentially opening the results to legal challenges.

Over 1,200 international observers, including representatives from the European Union and the United Nations, were registered to monitor the elections, underscoring the global community's interest in Iraq's democratic processes.

The low voter turnout and the Sadrist boycott reflect deep-seated public disillusionment with Iraq's political system. The next government will face significant challenges in addressing these issues and navigating the complex influences of both the U.S. and Iran. Analysts warn that the election could reinforce the existing power structure rather than bring about meaningful change.

Initial vote results are expected on November 12, 2025.