Activities
Workshops, field programmes, legal-literacy campaigns, and advocacy initiatives across the Kurdistan Region.
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Dialogue and Review of the Law on the Protection of the Rights of Components in the Kurdistan Region
As part of the project “Review of the Law on the Protection of the Rights of Components No. (5) of 2015,” enacted by the Kurdistan Parliament, the Investigator Organization for Supporting Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL), in partnership with the Christian Aid Program (CAP), organized a dialogue session on Wednesday, 22 October 2025, to review the aforementioned law. The session was held at the Hyksos Hotel in Ainkawa District, Erbil.The session aimed to discuss and review the Law on the Protection of the Rights of Components, identify areas requiring amendment, and develop legal and institutional frameworks to safeguard the rights of components. It brought together a wide range of relevant stakeholders from governmental and judicial institutions, Parliament, and civil society.Participants included Dr. Muna Yaqo, President of the Independent Human Rights Commission, and Floren Gorgis, Head of the Department of Ethnic and Religious Components at the Presidency of the Kurdistan Region, as well as members and advisers of the Kurdistan Parliament representing different components. The session also brought together representatives of the Judicial Council and the Ainkawa Preliminary Court, a representative of the Public Prosecution, lawyers and representatives of the Kurdistan Bar Association, the Director General of Yazidi Affairs, the Director General of Christian Affairs, and the Director General of Coexistence at the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs, a representative of the Ainkawa District Administration, and representatives of non-governmental organizations. Mr. Emmanuel, Director of CAP, also participated in the session.The discussions were chaired by Judge Badradin Barzanji and concluded with a set of recommendations and proposals for amending the law. These recommendations and proposed amendments will be submitted to the Kurdistan Parliament once the parliamentary committees are formed and parliamentary sessions resume, with the aim of strengthening the legal framework for protecting and safeguarding the rights of components.
Advancing the Institutional Development of the Maff Network through a Six-Year Strategy
As part of the “Strengthening the Rule of Law in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region” project, the Investigator Organization for Supporting Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL), in partnership with Norwegian People's Aid (NPA), organized a two-day open dialogue workshop for the heads of member organizations of the Maff Network in Sulaymaniyah on 2–3 October 2025. The workshop aimed to review and further develop the Network’s strategy, organizational structure, internal regulations, and work plan.On the first day of the workshop, discussions focused on key issues related to the internal functioning of the Maff Network, including developing the strategic plan, strengthening planning capacities, establishing coordination and networking mechanisms, enhancing communication skills, and managing campaigns, with the aim of increasing impact and promoting more effective participation in decision-making processes.On the second day, following a review of the discussions and outcomes of the first day, the draft Maff Network Management Strategy for 2025–2030 was presented, followed by discussions on the Network’s future directions and plans. At the conclusion of the workshop, the strategy underwent further review and revision and was subsequently approved by the member organizations of the Maff Network.This step forms part of the ongoing efforts of the Organization and its partners to strengthen the institutional capacities of civil society organizations and enhance their ability to play more effective roles in advancing justice and the rule of law in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
The Role of Judicial Authority Components in Strengthening the Rule of Law and Consolidating Justice
On 28 September 2025, a judicial forum was held in Baghdad under the title “The Role of Judicial Authority Components in Strengthening the Rule of Law and Consolidating Justice.”The forum was held under the supervision of the Supreme Judicial Council of Iraq, in partnership with the Investigator Organization for supporting role of law and Democracy (IOL) and the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Within the framework of the project «Building Peace and Stability in Iraq» (BPSI) with financial support from UKAID. The forum aimed to promote dialogue and exchange experiences on the role of the judiciary in strengthening the rule of law and consolidating justice. It brought together a wide range of judges and representatives of the Supreme Judicial Council of Iraq and the Judicial Council of the Kurdistan Region.The first day of the forum featured a number of opening remarks, including remarks by the President of the Supreme Judicial Council of Iraq, as well as statements and messages from IRC and the Investigator Organization for supporting role of law and Democracy (IOL). The remarks highlighted the importance of strengthening judicial institutions and advancing the rule of law.As part of the forum’s discussions, two panel sessions were held. The first panel focused on judicial authority initiatives within the framework of the National Strategy for Strengthening the Rule of Law (2025–2029) and provided an opportunity for dialogue and an exchange of views among participants.The second panel focused on constitutional authority in Iraq and the role of relevant institutions in strengthening the rule of law. In this context, representatives of the Federal Supreme Court of Iraq and the State Council presented their respective perspectives on the topics under discussion and participated in the ensuing dialogue.On the second day of the forum, the third thematic session was presented, focusing on the role of military justice in consolidating justice. The session featured an extensive discussion on the challenges and procedures related to the functioning of military courts.The fourth thematic session focused on the role of the legal profession and the press in supporting the rule of law. The discussions emphasized the important role of lawyers and media professionals in consolidating justice and strengthening public confidence in judicial institutions.The forum represents an important step towards developing a dedicated sub-implementation plan for the judicial authority, which will constitute a key component of the National Implementation Plan for the Rule of Law Strategy in Iraq (2025–2029).On 2 July 2025, the National Strategy for Strengthening the Rule of Law and Consolidating Justice in the Republic of Iraq was officially launched. In this context, the forum represents an important milestone in advancing the role of the judicial authority within broader national efforts to strengthen justice.
Launch of the Executive Plan for the National Rule of Law Strategy (2025–2029)
As part of the concluding stage of the second phase of the “Strengthening the Rule of Law in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region” project, the IOL, Investigator Organization for supporting role of law and Democracy, in partnership with NPA, Norwegian People's Aid, held a consultative meeting of the National Rule of Law Team in Baghdad.The meeting was chaired by Dr. Khalid Shwani, Head of the National Team and Minister of Justice of Iraq, with the participation of the Team’s two deputies, Dr. Burhan Mzher Al-Qaisi and Ms. Shilan Arif, together with members of the National Team.The meeting focused on reviewing the Executive Plan for the National Strategy for Strengthening the Rule of Law and Consolidating Justice (2025–2029), which is expected to enter into implementation in the coming period through dedicated subsidiary implementation plans for Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.The discussion highlighted key components of the implementation plan, including clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of relevant stakeholders, establishing clear timelines for completing each initiative, and adopting monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure the effective and successful implementation of the strategy.The meeting represents an important step toward strengthening the rule of law, consolidating justice and transparency, and ensuring coordination and cooperation among relevant institutions and stakeholders in implementing the National Strategy across Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
A New Step Towards Strengthening the Rule of Law, towards a Stronger Report on Monitoring the State of the Rule of Law in Iraq
From 8–10 September 2025, within the framework of the “Strengthening the Rule of Law in Iraq” project, IOL, Investigator Organization for supporting role of law and Democracy, in partnership with NPA Norwegian People's Aid, organized a three-day Training of Trainers (TOT) for representatives of member organizations of the MAFF Network for Justice and Democratic Development in Erbil.The primary objective of the training was to strengthen participants’ knowledge and capacities in rule of law monitoring and the preparation of the Annual Rule of Law Monitoring Report in Iraq, through a structured, research-based, and evidence-informed approach.Over the three-day training, participants received guidance on a range of key topics, including writing techniques, research methodologies, approaches to data collection and analysis, and principles for drafting and preparing monitoring reports. The training aimed to enhance participants’ institutional and technical capacities, enabling them to contribute more effectively to the process of monitoring and documenting the state of the rule of law in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.This initiative forms part of the ongoing efforts of Investigator Organization and its partners to strengthen the capacities of civil society organizations, enhance rule of law monitoring, and support processes of justice, transparency, and the consolidation of the rule of law in Iraq.
Third and Final Workshop within the Framework of the “Internal and Interfaith Dialogue” Project
On September 6, 2025, within the framework of the “Internal and Interfaith Dialogue” project in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, IOL, Investigator Organization for supporting role of law and Democracy, in cooperation with MEMECS and with the support of KAICIID, King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue, organized its third and final workshop entitled “Empowering Youth to Enhance Community Resilience: Building a Cohesive Society in the Kurdistan Region through Interfaith Dialogue and Crisis Response” in Duhok.The workshop brought together a group of young people from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds, with a primary focus on strengthening their roles and capacities in promoting dialogue, mutual understanding, and social cohesion.The workshop explored the importance of interfaith dialogue and intercultural understanding as key tools for strengthening social cohesion and peaceful coexistence, as well as for addressing crises in a thoughtful and informed manner.The workshop also provided a platform for critical thinking, dialogue, and group work, with the aim of strengthening young people’s capacities and empowering them to become effective and genuine agents of social change within multi-religious and multicultural communities.
Specialized Training for Civil Society Activists in Anbar Governorate
To enhance legal awareness and knowledge and strengthen the capacities of civil society activists, IOL, Investigator Organization for supporting role of law and Democracy, in cooperation with NPA, Norwegian People's Aid, conducted a specialized training on September 3, 2025, as part of the organization’s ongoing series of activities.The training focused on legal and constitutional rights during the investigation and trial stages, aiming to enhance participants’ knowledge and awareness of legal and constitutional rights within the judicial process.This activity forms part of the ongoing efforts of IOL to strengthen legal awareness and build the capacities of civil society activists in protecting and advocating for legal and constitutional rights.
Implementation Plan for the National Strategy to Strengthen the Rule of Law and Promote Justice (2025–2029)
As part of the “Strengthening the Rule of Law” project, the, Investigator Organization for supporting role of law and Democracy (IOL), in partnership with the Norwegian organization NPA, held a consultative session with the Kurdistan Region National Team to review the Implementation Plan for the National Strategy to Strengthen the Rule of Law and Promote Justice (2025–2029). The session focused on reviewing the details of the implementation plan, in preparation for the strategy to enter its implementation phase in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region in the coming period, based on dedicated implementation plans for Iraq and the Region. The discussion particularly focused on defining the roles and responsibilities of the relevant stakeholders, establishing a clear timeline for implementing each initiative, and identifying monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure the effective implementation of the strategy and measure progress in carrying out its provisions.
Specialized Media Training Workshop in Erbil to Strengthen the Rule of Law in Iraq
As part of efforts to strengthen the principles of transparency and accountability, and in partnership with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and with the support of UKaid, IOL, Investigator Organization for supporting role of law and Democracy, organized a specialized media training workshop in Erbil under the “Building Peace and Stability in Iraq” project. The workshop was held under the title: “The Role of Media Institutions in Promoting the Rule of Law in Light of Iraqi Laws and Legislation and the Rule of Law Strategy for 2025–2029.” The workshop brought together a group of journalists, media professionals, and civil society activists from different parts of Iraq. It focused on highlighting the role of the media as the “fourth estate” and as a key partner in advancing the successful implementation of the Rule of Law Strategy for 2025–2029, particularly in promoting transparency, combating corruption, and supporting national reforms. Unlike conventional training approaches, the workshop’s agenda combined theoretical learning with practical application, creating an engaging and participatory learning environment while enabling journalists to apply legal provisions and principles in their journalistic work. This approach aimed to strengthen the impact of media and promote constructive and purposeful journalism. The workshop also featured opening and closing remarks by the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Investigator Organization, as well as remarks by the Regional Representative of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) as the partner organization. Both sides emphasized the central role of the media in advancing justice, strengthening the rule of law, and contributing to peacebuilding in Iraq. At the conclusion of the workshop, participants were tasked with preparing field reports and research papers as a practical application of the knowledge and skills gained during the sessions. The workshop concluded with the distribution of certificates of participation to the attendees.
Capacity-Building Workshop for Members of the MAFF Network
On 28–29 July 2025, IOL, Investigator Organization for supporting role of law and Democracy, in partnership with IRC and with financial support from UKaid, organized a two-day capacity-building workshop for members of the MAFF Network for Justice and Democratic Development in Erbil. The workshop was conducted as part of the “Building Peace and Stability in Iraq (BPSI)” project, with the aim of strengthening the capacities of member organizations and enhancing their effective role in supporting the Rule of Law Strategy in Iraq for 2025–2029. The workshop brought together 15 participants, including heads and members of civil society organizations that are part of the network. It focused on strengthening participants’ capacities and equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to enable them to play a more effective role as partners in advancing legal reforms, safeguarding judicial independence, and engaging in monitoring and advocacy efforts on issues related to the rule of law.
Second Workshop on “Empowering Youth and Building a Cohesive Society in the Kurdistan Region”
On July 26, 2025, as part of the project “Internal and Interfaith Dialogue in the Kurdistan Region/Iraq,” the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL) and MEMECS, in partnership with and with the support of the International Dialogue Centre (KAICIID), organized the second workshop in Sulaymaniyah under the title: “Empowering Youth to Enhance Community Resilience: Building a Cohesive Society in the Kurdistan Region through Interfaith Dialogue and Crisis Response.” The workshop brought together a group of young people from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds within the community. Throughout the workshop, the importance of interfaith dialogue and intercultural understanding was discussed as two key tools for strengthening social cohesion and responding to crises with wisdom and awareness. The workshop also provided an appropriate space for critical thinking and group work, with the aim of strengthening young people’s capacities and enhancing their role as active participants and genuine agents of change within multi-religious and multicultural communities. The workshop also served as an important platform for listening, connecting, and building a sustainable network among young people who believe in peace, inclusive leadership, cooperation, and community resilience.
First Workshop on “Youth Empowerment and Building a Cohesive Society in the Kurdistan Region”
On 25 June 2025, within the framework of the project “Intra- and Interfaith Dialogue in the Kurdistan Region/Iraq,” the Investigator Organization for Supporting the Rule of Law and Democracy (IOL) and MEMECS, in partnership with and with the support of KAICIID, organized the first workshop in Erbil entitled: “Empowering Youth to Advance Community Resilience: Building a Cohesive Society in the Kurdistan Region through Interfaith Dialogue and Crisis Response.” The workshop brought together young people from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds. During the workshop, participants discussed the importance of interfaith dialogue and intercultural understanding as key tools for strengthening social cohesion and responding to crises with awareness and sound judgment. The workshop also provided a space for critical thinking and group work, aimed at strengthening young people's capacities and developing their role as active participants and genuine agents of change in multi-faith and multicultural societies. Furthermore, the workshop served as an important platform for listening, connecting, and building a sustainable network among young people who believe in peace, inclusive leadership, cooperation, and community resilience.