Low Voter Turnout and Boycotts Mark Iraq's 2025 Parliamentary Elections

On November 11, 2025, Iraq conducted its sixth parliamentary elections since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion, aiming to fill all 329 seats in the Council of Representatives. The elections were notably marked by low voter turnout and the absence of the influential Sadrist Movement, led by Muqtada al-Sadr.

By midday, the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) reported a turnout of 23.9%, with 4,795,685 ballots cast out of over 20 million registered voters. This figure suggests a potential decline from the 41% turnout recorded in 2021, reflecting widespread public disillusionment with entrenched political elites and systemic corruption.

The Sadrist Movement's boycott significantly impacted voter participation, especially in strongholds like Sadr City. Polling stations there were nearly empty, with some reporting fewer than 60 voters by midday. Ahmed al-Mousawi, a polling station director in Sadr City, noted, "The Sadrist boycott has had a major impact. In previous elections, there used to be long lines from the early morning hours."

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani sought a second term, leading the Coalition for Reconstruction and Development. His tenure has been characterized by efforts to balance relations between the U.S. and Iran while addressing domestic challenges, including integrating pro-Iranian Shiite militias into state institutions. Al-Sudani emphasized the importance of the elections, stating they assert "the people's commitment to this democratic practice."

The elections were conducted under the scrutiny of over 1,200 international observers, including representatives from the European Union and the United Nations, aiming to ensure transparency amid concerns over electoral integrity. Despite these measures, the low turnout and the Sadrist boycott have raised questions about the legitimacy of the election results and the formation of the next government.

Security challenges also marred the election period. In Kirkuk, violent clashes between political party supporters led to the deaths of two police officers, highlighting the fraught atmosphere. Additionally, authorities arrested dozens for trafficking voter cards, raising concerns about electoral fraud.

The outcome of these elections is poised to influence Iraq's internal power dynamics and its geopolitical positioning. Both Washington and Tehran closely monitored the results to gauge their respective influences in the region. The U.S. has been pressuring Iraq to curb the influence of Iran-aligned armed factions, some of which fielded candidates in the elections. Meanwhile, Iran remains engaged, dispatching Quds Force leadership to maintain unity among Shiite factions.

Iraq's 2025 parliamentary elections underscore the nation's ongoing struggles with political engagement, governance, and external influences. The low voter turnout and significant boycotts reflect deep-seated public disillusionment, posing challenges for the country's path toward stability and democratic consolidation.