Article

2007-11-28 Iraq

Security in Baghdad: what the cabble saw

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Posted by Mike 2007-11-28 08:22|| || Front Page|| [7 views ] Top
File under: Iraqi Insurgency

#1 Every day they assess the constantly shifting boundaries between danger and security, hoping that life will return to normal, but mindful that this is still a city where anyone could be killed at any moment for no particular reason

The Washington Post writer couldn't take two minutes to google 'cab driver shot' and click on news to see a long list of victims, none of which are in Baghdad to understand that his/her standards could apply anywhere. It's a quagmire out here. /sarcasm off

Posted by Procopius2k 2007-11-28 08:46|| 2007-11-28 08:46|| Front Page Top

#2 There are a few things to look forward to in the evolution of Baghdad to a "typical" city. That is, from an unusual place to a normal place.

One such thing is that larger cities *always* have a "bad part of town". Now granted, "bad" is very relative. But it generally means that it is where the poorer people live, with somewhat more crime than elsewhere in the city. And, importantly, that is where people go to have naughty fun.

It is where you will find what passes for the red light district, where it is easier to buy alcohol and drugs, where young people seeking illicit pleasures tend to congregate and party, etc.

All very normal in a city, because such things are pushed out of the "better" neighborhoods. It also means that the better neighborhoods are in control enough to push out the mischief makers. This implies effective policing, which in turn implies more effective government.

And, if you ask the taxi drivers where to go to "have a good time", that district is what they will automatically say. Unless you look like "polite people", in which case they will recommend museums and "polite" entertainments.

Posted by Anonymoose 2007-11-28 09:56|| 2007-11-28 09:56|| Front Page Top

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