Rebuilding Iraq: Reconstruction Progress Hindered by Contracting, Security, and Capacity Challenges.

摘要

The Department of Defense (DoD) has relied extensively on contractors to undertake major reconstruction projects and provide support to its deployed forces, but these efforts have not always achieved desired outcomes. Further, the Iraqi government must be able to reduce violence, sustain reconstruction progress, improve basic services, and make a positive difference in the daily lives of the Iraqi people. This statement discusses the following: (1) factors affecting DoD's ability to promote successful acquisition outcomes on its contracts for reconstruction and for support to deployed forces in Iraq, (2) the deteriorating security situation and the capabilities of the Iraqi security forces, and (3) issues affecting the Iraqi government's ability to support and sustain future reconstruction progress. The testimony is based upon GAO's work on Iraq reconstruction and stabilization efforts, DoD contracting activities, and DoD's use of support contractors spanning several years. This work was conducted in accordance with generally accepted government auditing standards. GAO is making no new recommendations in this testimony. GAO has previously made numerous recommendations to improve DoD's management and use of contracts. DOD has generally agreed with these recommendations and has taken some actions to implement them.