Integrating Non-State Actors : the case of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces / Maryam AlDhuhoori.

Includes author biography (page 87)

Includes bibliographical references (pages 77 - 85).

Introduction p.9.

Non-State Actors: Dynamics, Influence, and Security Implications p.17.

From Insurgency to Influence: The PMF Post-2003 p.23.

The PMF’s Pervasive Influence: Security, Governance and the Threat to State Authority p.43.

Developing a Comprehensive Framework: Deterrence, Dismantling, Integration p.61.

Conclusion p.75.

Bibliography p.77.

About the Author p.87.

The book “Integrating Non-State Actors: The Case of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces” by Maryam AlDhuhoori examines the challenge of integrating armed non-state actors into Iraq’s post-2003 state structures through the case of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). It begins with a conceptual discussion of non-state actors, their roles, and their security and political implications, then traces the PMF’s evolution from insurgency and post-invasion dynamics to a powerful military and political actor with formal and informal influence. It goes on to analyze how the PMF has penetrated Iraq’s security apparatus, governance institutions, economy, and decisionmaking processes, and how this penetration undermines state authority, sovereignty, and institutional coherence. Finally, it develops a practical analytical framework built around three main policy options—deterrence, dismantling, and integration—exploring the conditions, constraints, and potential consequences of each path for Iraq’s stability and for building a state capable of managing or neutralizing armed non-state actors.