Peace and Freedom Organization, in partnership with the Norwegian People’s Aid, organized a "Youth and Public Institution in Iraq and KRI" Roundtable in Erbil on 23 November 2025.
 
The roundtable brought together 40 participants, including youth, activists, journalists, university professors, and members of civil society. Including, the General Director of the Ministry of Culture and Youth in the Kurdistan Region, participated, along with representatives from the Ministry of Youth and Sports in Baghdad and Kirkuk, the Independent High Commission for Human Rights from Baghdad and the KRI, the labor unions, the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, and youth from different governorates across Iraq and the KRI.
 
The discussion focused on several key areas, including defining the network of 2250 Youth Peace and Security (YPS) missions, the role of government institutions in enhancing youth capabilities and opportunities, and the importance of strengthening the relationship between youth and relevant stakeholders. Participants also emphasized the role of education in preparing youth for the labor market and supporting their active involvement in organizations, unions, and civic spaces.
 
At the end of the roundtable, the youth submitted a set of recommendations to the relevant authorities, aimed at strengthening youth capacities, promoting their engagement in social affairs, and enhancing their role in the labor market, while raising awareness among youth about civic responsibilities and social participation.
 
The roundtable provided a platform for youth to share their ideas and perspectives directly with decision-makers and key institutions. Their recommendations focused on improving youth participation in social affairs, education, and the labor market, helping to create more responsive policies that address the needs and hopes of youth across Iraq and the KRI.
 
This activity is part of the project (Civil Society influence for Reduced Inequality in Iraq) project implemented by the Peace and Freedom Organization in partnership with the Norwegian People’s Aid.