Marking a pivotal milestone in its international outreach, al-Rafidain Center for Dialogue (RCD) presents its inaugural English-language publication.
By bridging the divide between Iraqi scholarship and the international community, RCD advances its mission to elevate regional discourse and foster a more inclusive understanding of Iraq’s long-term developmental prospects.
(al-Najaf al-Ashraf 2050: A Future Vision) is a multidisciplinary work authored by a team of specialized researchers and edited by Prof. Dr. Hasan al-Zubaidi and Prof. Dr. Miqdam Al-Fayyad. The publication's significance stems from its rigorous research methodology and the distinctive historical, civilizational, and political depth of al-Najaf al-Ashraf, as well as its prominent religious status. Employing precise data and empirical evidence, the authors offer a comprehensive analysis of the city's strategic strengths and weaknesses. Moreover, the volume proposes actionable policy frameworks and identifies emerging opportunities, thereby providing a roadmap for effective implementation by both federal and local government authorities.
The book is organized into twelve sections, delivering a comprehensive assessment across various sectors and governance levels, including:
• Economic Outlook: An analysis of Najaf’s local economy.
• Human Capital: The education and higher education sectors.
• Urban & Rural Development: Prospective trajectories of urban planning and rural sustainability.
• Sociocultural Dynamics: Cultural life and the institutional influence of the Supreme Religious Authority and its Seminar.
• Governance: The current state of local administration and the Provincial Council.
• Infrastructure & Resources: Management of natural resources, energy/electricity, and the transportation sector.