Cautious Optimism

The Iraqi elections seem to have been a success. Something like 60-70 per cent turnout, very limited violence, etc. It remains to be seen just what sort of government the Iraqis elected and, as Kieran points out, what's crucial in democratic transformation isn't the first election but the first in which an elected government loses, and peacefully hands over the reins of power.

However, I don't think it's hyperbole to say that yesterday was the greatest day in Iraq's history as a nation. As Matt Welch beautifully put it:

What a wonderful thing, to watch people vote freely for the first time. The act of casting ballots has a way of creating its own reinforcing, unpredictable momentum, which is the best single reason for hope today.

The holding of a free election might not by itself constitute substantive democracy, but it does constitute more than mere symbolism. Or, rather, symbols are not always "mere."