The Intelligence from The Economist Mission possible: Baghdad is booming
26 snips
Sep 4, 2025 
Gareth Brown, a seasoned Middle East correspondent, shares insights from his recent visit to Baghdad, including a compelling interview with Prime Minister Muhammad al-Sudani. They discuss the construction boom, advancements in digital bureaucracy, and the political hurdles Iraq faces ahead of elections. Meanwhile, Archie Hall, a US economics editor, explores the revitalization of the Noma neighborhood in D.C., contrasting its transformation from an industrial wasteland to a vibrant hub, and addressing the ongoing housing debate of YIMBYs versus NIMBYs.
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Fastest Passport Office In Baghdad
- Gareth Brown describes visiting Baghdad's passport office where digitalisation sped up renewals to about 45 minutes.
- Officials claim it's possibly the fastest passport renewal service in the world.
Baghdad's Rapid Rebuild
- Baghdad is undergoing a visible construction boom with cranes, new bridges and cafes reshaping the city.
- Private investors and foreign firms are shouldering much of the new building alongside public projects.
New Hospitals And Schools Opened
- Gareth Brown recounts four new hospitals in Baghdad, including the country's first cancer centre and a Korean-designed ICU.
- Over 1,700 schools have been rebuilt or constructed under recent efforts.
