Activities
Workshops, field programmes, legal-literacy campaigns, and advocacy initiatives across the Kurdistan Region.
Specialized Seminar Held at the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs on the National Rule of Law Strategy and the Ministry’s Subsidiary Implementation Plan
Within the framework of the “Strengthening the Rule of Law” project, the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL) held a specialized seminar on 2 September 2026 at the Reform Directorate of the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs, under the title “The National Strategy for Strengthening the Rule of Law and the Ministries’ Subsidiary Implementation Plans.” The seminar was attended by senior officers of the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs, including directors general and directors of various directorates.At the opening of the seminar, the Director of the Reform Directorate delivered welcoming remarks and emphasized the importance of such seminars and legal awareness activities as a strategic and long-term step toward consolidating the rule of law and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.During the main part of the seminar, an overview was provided of the project, the level of cooperation and coordination between the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Federal Government of Iraq, and the stages of the project’s implementation by the Organization. The seminar also highlighted the importance of ministries’ subsidiary implementation plans and their role in implementing the National Strategy.The Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs reaffirmed its active and continued participation in this national project. In this regard, the Ministry designated a special representative to participate in the project and represent it on the National Rule of Law Team in the Kurdistan Region. It also established a dedicated committee to follow up on and coordinate the various stages of implementing the strategy.The project aims to strengthen coordination and cooperation among relevant institutions and stakeholders and support the practical implementation of the National Rule of Law Strategy.
Follow-up Session on the Outcomes of the Workshop for Preparing the Sub-Plan to Implement the National Rule of Law Strategy
As part of the follow-up to the outcomes of the workshop held on 1–2 August 2026 on preparing the “Sub-Plan for Implementing the National Rule of Law Strategy” for ministries in the Kurdistan Region, the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL) held a special session on 18 August 2026 at the Diwan of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in Erbil. The session featured an intensive and constructive discussion on the Ministry’s initiatives and steps for implementing the sub-plan. Emphasis was also placed on the important and influential role of universities, colleges, and research centers in developing, strengthening, and consolidating the principles of the rule of law in the Kurdistan Region. The meeting was attended by directors of various departments within the Ministry’s Diwan, legal department officials, and Ministry advisers. The session aimed to continue coordination and joint efforts to implement the strategy and achieve effective and productive results.
Workshop on Preparing Sub-Plans for Implementing the National Strategy to Strengthen the Rule of Law in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region
On 1–2 August 2026, the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL), in coordination with the Ministry of Justice of the Kurdistan Regional Government and in cooperation with Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), conducted a two-day workshop in Erbil to prepare sub-plans for the relevant ministries and institutions as part of the National Strategy to Strengthen the Rule of Law in Iraq (2025–2029). The workshop was attended by representatives and teams from the Ministry of Justice, Judicial Council, Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs, Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Ministry of Planning, Integrity Commission, Department of Foreign Relations, NGO Department, and Independent Human Rights Commission. At the beginning of the workshop, Ms. Shilan Arif، Deputy Minister of Justice and Deputy Chair of the National Rule of Law Team, emphasized the importance of national partnership in developing the strategy and the need to strengthen justice and the rule of law. The important role of Mr. Firsat Ahmed, Minister of Justice of the Kurdistan Regional Government, in developing and strengthening the content of the strategy and preparing a dedicated implementation plan for the Region was also highlighted. Dr. Mohammed Al-Tamimi, an international expert, provided a detailed explanation of the strategy’s content, objectives, and implementation mechanisms. On the second day, the teams of the participating institutions discussed and presented their sub-plans and addressed their respective duties and responsibilities. The workshop concluded by emphasizing the importance of coordination and cooperation among all ministries and institutions as key foundations for the success of the project.
Investigator Organization Presents Its Honorary Shield to the President of the Kurdistan Region Judicial Council
On 29 July 2026, a delegation from the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL), headed by Judge Badraddin Karim Barzanji, Chairperson of the Organization's Board of Directors, visited Judge Abdul Jabbar Aziz Hassan, President of the Kurdistan Region Judicial Council. The visit was made to express the Organization's appreciation for the Judicial Council's continuous support and cooperation with its activities, projects, and initiatives aimed at strengthening the rule of law and promoting legal awareness. During the meeting, Judge Abdul Jabbar Aziz Hassan emphasized the important role played by civil society organizations, particularly those working in the legal and judicial fields. He commended the efforts and initiatives of the Investigator Organization in promoting the rule of law and strengthening legal awareness throughout the Kurdistan Region. At the conclusion of the visit, the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL) presented its honorary shield to the President of the Kurdistan Region Judicial Council in recognition of his continued support and cooperation in advancing the Organization's projects and activities.
Implementation of the "Building the Capacity of Lawyers" Training Program to Strengthen the Protection of the Rights of Communities and Minorities
On 25–28 July 2026, the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL), in partnership with the Christian Aid Program (CAP) and in coordination with the Kurdistan Bar Association, conducted a specialized training program for lawyers in Erbil entitled "Building the Capacity of Lawyers." The three-day program brought together lawyers to strengthen their knowledge and professional skills in protecting the rights of communities and minorities in accordance with relevant national legislation, legal frameworks, and international standards. The training covered a range of key legal topics, including the legal framework for the protection of the rights of communities and minorities, national and international protection mechanisms, the role of lawyers in safeguarding fundamental rights, and the effective use of legal tools and procedures to defend the rights of minorities and diverse communities. This training forms part of the ongoing efforts of the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL) to strengthen the capacities of legal professionals, reinforce the principles of the rule of law, and promote the protection of the rights of communities and minorities throughout the Kurdistan Region.
Legal Awareness Training Course for Lawyers on Reviewing the Law Supporting the Rights of Components
Within the framework of the “Review of the Law Supporting the Rights of Components” project, the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL), in partnership with the CAP Organization and the Kurdistan Bar Association (KBA), and with the support of SIDA, SCR, and SMC, conducted a legal awareness training course for 28 lawyers from Erbil, held from 25 to 27 July 2026. The three-day course focused on Law No. (5) of 2015 concerning the rights of components, relevant laws related to religious affairs, the role of components in the Kurdistan Region, as well as the right to pursue legal claims and cases. The training also introduced a draft law prepared to review and amend the aforementioned law, with the aim of submitting it to the Kurdistan Parliament in the future. A representative of the Kurdistan Bar Association (KBA) attended the course and highlighted the role of IOL and the importance of continuing this type of training, particularly in light of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the two sides. This course is part of a series of activities aimed at strengthening legal awareness and supporting the rights of components, with similar training activities and courses set to continue in the coming periods.
Visit of the Investigator Organization for the Rule of Law to the Independent Administration of Soran
The Investigator Organization for supporting Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL) continues its ongoing efforts to promote the rule of law and democratic governance, particularly in relation to its advocacy for the new establishment of a Criminal Court in the Kurdistan Region. Within the framework of a project supported by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), the organization conducted an official visit to the Independent Administration of Soran, where a formal meeting was held with Mr. Hagurd Sheikh Najib, Head of the Independent Administration of Soran, and the Deputy Head of the Administration. During the meeting, in-depth discussions were held regarding the necessity and importance of establishing a Criminal Court within the Soran Independent Administration. Both emphasized the critical importance of this step and the need for strong legal and institutional support to ensure its implementation. As part of the visit, the delegation also visited the Soran Primary Court. In this context, the Independent Administration of Soran formally requested relevant data concerning criminal cases that were referred to the Criminal Court of Erbil in 2025. This visit forms part of the organization’s continuous advocacy efforts and builds upon previous engagements conducted in several other regions, including Halabja Governorate and the Zakho Independent Administration, all aimed at strengthening justice and developing judicial institutions.
Third Consultative Session on the Draft Guide to Procedures in Criminal Courts Held in Sulaymaniyah
Within the framework of the project supported by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), the third consultative meeting on the draft “Guide to Procedures in Criminal Courts” was held in Sulaymaniyah on 20 June 2026. The meeting brought together 16 judges and public prosecutors, in addition to advisors of the Judicial Council, representatives and officials from the Office of the President of the Judicial Council, and the project coordinator within the Judicial Council. At the outset of the meeting, Judge Badraddin Karim Barzanji, President of the Investigator Organization for the Rule of Law, delivered opening remarks in which he welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts aimed at strengthening judicial performance and enhancing the efficiency of procedures applied within criminal courts. Subsequently, Judge Kamaran Rasul Saeed, representative of the Sulaymaniyah Court of Appeal, delivered the court’s remarks and expressed appreciation to the Investigator Organization for the Rule of Law for organizing and facilitating the consultative meeting. Public Prosecutor Farooq Qadir Ahmed, representing the Public Prosecution Directorate in Sulaymaniyah, also addressed the participants and highlighted the significance of the initiative in advancing procedural practices and improving the effectiveness of criminal court operations. During the meeting, the draft “Guide to Procedures in Criminal Courts” was presented by retired Judge Rahim Aqeeli. Participants then reviewed the draft and provided observations, comments, and recommendations aimed at enriching its content, ensuring its practical applicability, and enhancing its effectiveness within the criminal justice system.
Continued Efforts Toward the Implementation of the National Rule of Law Strategy
As part of ongoing efforts to advance toward a new and more effective phase in the implementation of the National Rule of Law Strategy, the NORAD Project Team at the Investigator Organization for supporting role of law and Democracy (IOL), accompanied by Ms. Shilan Arif, Deputy Minister of Justice of the Kurdistan Region and Second Deputy Chair of the National Team, held two significant and constructive meetings in Baghdad on 17 June 2026. The meetings were conducted with Dr. Burhan Mazhar Al-Qaisi, Deputy Minister of Federal Justice and First Deputy Chair of the National Team, and Dr. Khalid Shwani, Minister of Justice of Iraq and Head of the National Team. The discussions focused extensively on the latest developments concerning the implementation plan of the National Rule of Law Strategy. Participants reviewed the progress achieved to date and examined key milestones reached in the process of developing and operationalizing the strategy’s implementation framework. The meetings also addressed forthcoming steps and mechanisms for coordination with relevant ministries and governmental institutions, with the objective of advancing the preparation, monitoring, and implementation of sector-specific ministerial action plans and facilitating the transition from planning to effective execution. Participants emphasized the importance of maintaining strong coordination and cooperation among all relevant stakeholders to ensure efficient implementation, translate strategic priorities into practical actions, and achieve the intended objectives of the National Rule of Law Strategy. These meetings form part of broader and ongoing efforts aimed at strengthening the rule of law and reinforcing the institutional foundations necessary for advancing justice and sustainable legal development in Iraq led by NORAD Project Team at the Investigator Organization for supporting role of law and Democracy (IOL).
Preparation of Institutional Implementation Plans for the National Strategy to Strengthen the Rule of Law in Iraq (2025–2029)
Within the framework of the "Strengthening the Rule of Law in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region" project, the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL), in partnership with Norwegian People's Aid (NPA) and in coordination with the Federal Ministry of Justice, organized a two-day workshop in Sulaymaniyah on 20–21 May 2026 to discuss the preparation of institutional implementation plans for the National Strategy to Strengthen the Rule of Law in Iraq (2025–2029). The workshop brought together representatives from a number of federal government institutions, including the Ministry of Interior, Supreme Judicial Council, General Secretariat of the Council of Representatives, Ministry of Youth, Commission of Integrity, Iraqi Media Network, Ministry of Defense, National Security Advisory within the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The workshop focused on the practical mechanisms for developing institutional implementation plans for the National Strategy and on strengthening coordination among government institutions to ensure the effective implementation of its objectives. During the first day, participants reviewed the general framework of the National Strategy and its implementation plan. The implementation plan prepared by the Federal Ministry of Justice was presented by the Ministry's specialized committee, followed by discussions on the distribution of responsibilities among the relevant ministries and institutions to ensure effective implementation throughout the coming years. On the second day, participants presented and discussed the implementation plans prepared by each institution following a series of thematic group discussions. The workshop concluded by emphasizing that sustained coordination and institutional cooperation among all relevant ministries and public institutions are essential for the successful implementation of the National Strategy (2025–2029). These efforts aim to strengthen the rule of law, improve institutional performance, and enhance the quality of public services provided to citizens throughout Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
Second Consultative Meeting Held to Review the Draft Criminal Courts Procedures Guide
Within the framework of the project supported by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), a consultative meeting was held in Duhok on 16 May 2026. The meeting brought together 18 judges and public prosecutors, in addition to advisors from the Judicial Council, the Director of the Office of the President of the Judicial Council, and the Council's Project Coordinator. The meeting was dedicated to reviewing the Draft Criminal Courts Procedures Guide. The meeting commenced with opening remarks by Judge and Public Prosecutor Badraddin Karim Barzanji, President of the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy, who welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of the initiative in strengthening judicial procedures. This was followed by remarks from Judge Hussein Saleh Ibrahim, representative of the Presidency of the Duhok Court of Appeal, who commended the Organization's efforts in preparing and organizing the consultative meeting. Judge and Public Prosecutor Majid Mohammed Ahmed, Deputy Head of the Duhok Public Prosecution Office, also delivered remarks highlighting the significance of the project and its contribution to improving the efficiency of the justice system. During the meeting, Retired Judge Rahim Al-Aqili presented the draft Criminal Courts Procedures Guide, followed by an extensive discussion in which participants shared their comments, observations, and recommendations to further improve and enrich the draft. It is worth noting that the same consultative meeting will also be held in Sulaymaniyah Governorate to continue reviewing the draft and benefit from the observations of legal and judicial experts.
A National Initiative to Secure Iraq's Inclusion in the Global Rule of Law Index
On 21 April 2026, in Baghdad, and within the framework of the "Strengthening the Rule of Law in Iraq" project, the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL), in partnership with Norwegian People's Aid (NPA), organized a specialized workshop with the participation of senior representatives from the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Kurdistan Regional Government Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Federal Supreme Judicial Council, and the Kurdistan Region Judicial Council. Representatives of the World Justice Project (WJP) also participated virtually. The workshop focused on discussing the practical steps required to secure Iraq's inclusion in the World Justice Project (WJP) Rule of Law Index. During the workshop, participants received a comprehensive presentation on the methodology of the Index and the legal, institutional, and administrative requirements that Iraq must fulfill. This created an opportunity for in-depth discussions on the opportunities and challenges associated with Iraq's accession to this internationally recognized index. The workshop concluded with a number of important recommendations emphasizing the need to implement international standards and maintain effective coordination among the relevant institutions. Participants also stressed the importance of developing a national roadmap to strengthen the foundations of the rule of law and fulfill the requirements for Iraq's inclusion in international rule of law indices, thereby enhancing the country's international standing and reputation.