HOW THE IDEOLOGICAL FRAMEWORKS OF THE IRAQI COMMUNIST PARTY (ICP) AND THE BAATH PARTY DROVE THEIR CONFLICT BETWEEN 1958 AND 1965

Abstract

This dissertation explores the ideological conflict between the Iraqi Communist Party (ICP) and the Baath Party from 1958 to 1965 via a rigorous literature analysis. The paper analyses the conflicts between the Marxist-Leninist ideology promoted by the ICP and the Arab Nationalist stances promoted by the Baath Party. This paper is a theoretical analysis meaning it uses scholarly and historical sources to highlight how these ideologies were the key determinants of the actions, strategies, and broader political positioning and confrontation of the two parties. The analysis reveals that ideological differences played a crucial role in configuring the nature and intensity of conflict. The ICP had elements of Marxism-Leninism principles at its core political message, which included emphasising class struggle, economic equality, and international solidarity; on the other hand, The Baath Party of Iraq called for nationalism, especially among the Arab states. The dissertation also draws a correlation between ideology and pragmatic political considerations. While ideology served as the basis for ideological purity and political legitimacy, pragmatic concerns such as power struggles, resource allocation, and external alliances also determined the parties’ actions. This understanding opposes rather mechanical views of the conflict as an ideological one only acknowledging the complicated nature of the political motivations and actions in the Middle Eastern context. Furthermore, the study highlights the implication of the findings in comprehending the contemporary political movements in Iraq as well as the rest of the Middle Eastern countries. The dissertation also suggests some practical recommendations for fostering a more resilient and democratic political system including promoting inclusive dialogue, supporting ideological pluralism, and enhancing political education rooted in historical ideologies.