Abbass F. Alkhafaji

Corporate governance: The evolution of the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act and its impact on corporate America

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to evaluate recent corporate failures and their effect on financial statements, as well as the measures being taken to rebuild trust in corporate America. Design/methodology/approach – Looks at how corporate governance in the USA is undergoing comprehensive reforms, particularly the significant Sarbanes‐Oxley Act. Findings – Measures to rebuild trust in corporate America are being implemented. Originality/value – The paper is of value by showing how the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act is by far is the most important legislative act governing business in the beginning of the twenty‐first century.

Privatization: An Overview

Discusses the issue of privatization and its relationship with the government. Answers the question of who should perform certain governmental services and why they should be performed by that particular organization. Compares the privatization process in the United States and European countries. Finally explains why politicians do not resort to more private services.

Iraq and the Limit of Freedom

This presentation highlights the changes that have taken place in Iraq in the past 2 years. Traditionally, Iraqi individuals have not judged people based on sectarian identity—Sunni and Shiite. Iraqis have lived side by side for years; they have respected each other and married each other without any complications in most cases. Indeed, many Iraqis come from mixed families or neighborhoods and enjoy the similarities and the differences such intermarriage brings. Since the global media and satellite news outlets have started to classify the Iraqis as Sunni, Shiite, and Kurd, the Arab media and news outlets, including this article, have adopted the same terminologies with serious reconsideration.