The Iraqi state's legitimacy deficit: Input, output and identity‐based legitimacy challenges

This article analyses the nature of legitimacy deficits post-2003 Iraqi state and grounds upon which alternative political orders have been proposed. The theoretical framework groups possible changes into three types: redistribution, regime change secession. Empirically, illustrates these dynamics through two contemporary challenges to state: Islamic State Iraq al-Sham (ISIS), Tishreen protest movement. intention is not compare contrast two, as they are widely divergent types orders, but rather reflect on their grievances against state, role identity in shaping visions. argues that key understanding both perceived failures alternatives proposed, also efforts by elite delegitimise state. Finally, case demonstrates legitimation fluid contingent than static deterministic, with salience different identities shifting over time being affected other forms legitimacy.