Even though the constitution is patently contradictory in some areas, the outcome of the ballot is a positive step towards normalisation. The fear of abduction has driven away journalists so there is less Iraq coverage and the situation seems improved. But it is not the case.

Amman (AsiaNews) – Amongst the thousand and more problems that Iraq is facing, the outcome of the ballot "is a positive step towards normalisation in the country," Mgr Fernando Filoni, Apostolic Nuncio in Baghdad, told AsiaNews. But the most important thing was people's participation to the referendum, "a sign that they want to rebuild and start anew".

"It would seem there was no significant electoral fraud," he said. But "what matters is that Iraq find its way towards the future. And this positive fact must be underlined first of all. Only later can we discuss if the constitution has positive or negative aspects."

The Nuncio, who is in Amman today, said that the "the constitution is patently contradictory in some areas. On the one hand, it is supposed to be a beckon for the Mideast; on the other, it contains some traditional elements. It is necessary to keep in mind that Iraqi society is in turmoil and undergoing transformation, and we must take into consideration that this process must go on."

The constitution that was approved on October 15 "leaves the door open to amendments since the next government has at least four months to improve it. This is a way out to solve some contentious issues that might otherwise degenerate into violence".

The Sunni community as a whole had initially opposed the constitution. Some segments of that community ended up accepting it after some changes were made.

"Everyone hopes Iraq takes a positive step towards normalisation," the Nuncio said.

However, the situation in the country is still difficult. "It is not only about security. That is only the tip of the iceberg of problems: jobs, energy, reconstruction, crime. Broken down roads . . . it is impossible to live when you have power for only ten minutes a day."

Mgr Filoni lamented the fact the interest of the international community in what is happening in Iraq is waning.

"All this is due to a lack of information. When the media is present, it is easier to get the international community interested and passionate about an issue. The kidnapping of journalists has led to the current black-out. Once the lamp oil—i.e. information—is dry, the light is snuffed out and so the world's interest has dropped. There are even some who believe that since Iraq is no longer in the headlines, things must be better. In fact, it is no longer a major news story only because there are no more media in Baghdad".

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