Conference on Enhancing Transitional Justice in Iraq: Towards Comprehensive Institutional Evaluation Indicators

Baghdad – The Ufuq Organization for Development, in collaboration with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation and the Iraqi High Commission for Human Rights, organized a national conference titled: “Enhancing Transitional Justice Profile in Iraq”.

The conference aimed to establish institutional evaluation indicators to support the transitional justice process in Iraq, following a series of dialogue sessions with social figures and representatives from governmental and non-governmental institutions.

The event was attended by Iraq’s Minister of Justice, Dr. Khalid Shwani, alongside members of the Iraqi Parliament, heads of independent bodies, advisers to the three presidencies (the Republic, the Council of Ministers, and the Parliament), as well as representatives from the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI). Media organizations, civil society organizations, and a distinguished group of academics and social leaders were also present.

Transitional justice in Iraq is a fundamental pillar of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16), which focuses on promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions. This conference is part of Ufuq’s broader efforts to enhance democratic transformation, achieve social justice, and establish a foundation for a state governed by institutions and the rule of law.

Discussions during the conference emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration and networking among relevant entities and leveraging national and international expertise to develop effective and equitable mechanisms to ensure justice for victims of past violations.

The conference also underscored the critical role of transitional justice as a tool for national reconciliation, preventing the recurrence of violations, and facilitating Iraq’s shift towards a democratic system that respects rights and ensures equality. This event marks a pivotal step in aligning Iraq’s transitional justice process with international standards and fostering sustainable peace and justice.