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Societies are always changing. They're shaped by world events, struggles, and creative, technological and economic advances. In Iraq, events since 2003 have caused profound change, and waves of ethnosectarian violence have severely damaged the possibility of a common life for the diverse components of Iraqi society. Military gains against ISIS have created a renewed sense of cross-sectarian pride, but this opportunity to unify a divided country must be met with corresponding political reforms and more inclusive governance.
Civil society provides a way to engage productively in the process of social change. It comprises the ecosystem that influences social change outside of the family, market or government, and plays a critical role in creating an inclusive and equitable society by pursuing social accountability and good governance, and amplifying the voices of marginalized groups. IRIS aims to support civil society to influence or jointly develop policy strategies alongside government. Our key areas include:
- Understanding social dynamics at the community level
- Managing a shift from identity-based politics to issue-based platforms and solutions
- Civic education
- Mechanisms for women and minorities to expand their participation in civic life
Recent projects under Social Relations and Civil Society portfolio include the following:
Recent publications include:
- Internal Displacement in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq: Impact, Response and Options: May 2016
- Sinjar after ISIS: Returning to Disputed Territory: May 2016
- Reporting on Minorities Across Iraq in Arabic & Kurdish Press: April 2016
- Needs Assessment of Arab IDPs & Refugees: September 2015
- IDP Crisis in Sulaimani Governorate: Registration, Protection, Access to Services: April 2015
Recent events include: Leadership Academy for Development:
- Leadership Academy for Development:
- IRIS Supports Civic Education with the Independent High Electoral Coalition: April 2018
- IRIS Hosts Professor Aisha Ahmad for a Workshop on Social Science Research Design and Methodology: April 2018
- Training Course on Humanitarian Response to the Displacement Crisis in the KRI: May 2017