Background and Context:
Following the liberation of Mosul from ISIS control, the need to rebuild the social fabric and strengthen women’s participation in the recovery process became increasingly urgent. A field study conducted by the Iraqi Institution for Development (IID) on the situation of women in Mosul revealed a clear gap in women’s representation in community initiatives and decision-making processes, as well as the need to enhance their capacities in peacebuilding, advocacy, and volunteerism.
Based on the study findings, an action plan was developed to establish the first women’s volunteer team working on women’s issues after liberation. The initiative aimed to empower women, strengthen their role in public life, and promote their active participation in sustainable peacebuilding.
Program Objective
The program aimed to strengthen women’s role in society through:
- Raising awareness of peacebuilding concepts and conflict management.
- Enabling women to develop community-based initiatives.
- Establishing a sustainable women’s volunteer team focused on women’s issues and civil peace.
- Promoting a culture of volunteerism linked to sustainable development.
Implemented Activities:
Workshop 1: Women’s Role in Peacebuilding (November 3–4, 2017):
The workshop focused on analyzing the causes of conflicts and methods for resolving them. Brainstorming techniques were used to identify and prioritize different types of conflicts, followed by written exercises to clarify their sequence and impact.
Participants were introduced to reconciliation agreements, supported by international and local examples. They were then divided into five working groups to develop proposals for peacebuilding projects in Mosul.
The workshop also included an introduction to advocacy concepts and tools, with examples of successful advocacy campaigns and practical exercises on designing similar initiatives.
Workshop 2: What Do We Do Tomorrow? (November 9–10, 2017):
This workshop addressed the concept of civil society, its history, importance, and legal framework. The relationship between volunteerism and the work of non-governmental organizations was explained, along with the role of volunteerism in supporting sustainable development.
A SWOT analysis was conducted to identify internal and external opportunities, challenges, and risks. Participants analyzed the peace situation in Mosul and identified key actors in promoting civil peace, with a particular focus on the central role of women in these efforts.
At the conclusion of the workshop, participants agreed to establish the volunteer team under the name “Qadirat” (meaning “Capable”), symbolizing women’s ability to create positive change and build lasting peace. The organizational structure of the team was defined, consisting of a head, follow-up groups, and a committee. The team’s vision, mission, and objectives were formulated, and one official logo was selected from three designs created by the participants.
Results and Impact:
- Establishment of the first women’s volunteer team in Mosul after liberation.
- Increased awareness among participants regarding peacebuilding and advocacy concepts.
- Development of preliminary community initiative proposals led by women.
- Strengthened self-confidence and leadership capacity among participants.
- Formation of an emerging women’s network contributing to community stability.
Sustainability:
A clear organizational foundation was established to ensure the continuity of volunteer activities, supported by a defined vision, mission, and administrative structure. The program strengthened leadership skills and initiative-taking among participants, contributing to the sustainability of efforts aimed at promoting civil peace and women’s empowerment in Mosul.