Defending rights & securing accountability in Iraq

The conflict with ISIS in Iraq from 2014 to 2017, resulted in thousands of deaths and millions of refugees. Minority groups, and human rights advocates, in Iraq were particularly affected by executions, abductions, sexual violence, and property destruction. The conflict also brought to light historical tensions between various groups. Since the end of the conflict, efforts to address the damage done to the country’s different groupings, have been too few. Unequal access to justice and rectification, has contributed to a weakened trust for the state, and increased tensions between different groups.

In this project, the Ceasefire Centre for Civilian Rights aims to protect civilians’ human rights and ensure accountability for violations in Iraq by documenting these violations and assisting individuals in seeking compensation; as well as working to strengthen laws and regulations surrounding human rights.

The project is supported with 2 430 000 SEK.

What’s happening in the project?

– Enhancing the ability of civil society to document violations in a secure manner.
– Increasing the number of correct applications for financial compensation in the national compensation program initiated by the Iraqi state.
– Providing information and support to Iraqi members and decision-makers, so that they can develop new regulations and legislation that enhance the protection of human rights, including the protection of civilians and freedom of speech.

Why was the project supported?

The project contributes to increased accountability for violations committed during the war with ISIS in Iraq and contributes to enhanced protection of human rights.