The Iraqi Institution for Development (IID) organized a coordination workshop titled “Strengthening the Capacities of the Sub-Committee for Preventing Violent Extremism Leading to Terrorism in Nineveh,” held on 17–18 August 2023 in Erbil, with the participation of 25 participants representing sub-committee members as well as governmental and community stakeholders. This workshop was conducted as part of ongoing efforts to enhance institutional coordination and build the capacities of local actors in the field of preventing violent extremism, contributing to a more effective and sustainable response in Nineveh Governorate.
The workshop began with an in-depth analysis of the current situation of extremism in Nineveh and an exploration of its various pathways from the participants’ perspectives. Discussions revealed that extremism is a multidimensional phenomenon that includes religious, political, social, and regional aspects. Key drivers identified included political pressures, restrictive social norms, weaknesses in educational curricula, as well as the legacy of conflict and institutional collapse. Participants emphasized the urgent need to develop a scientific and evidence-based understanding of extremism pathways, supported by modern research and translated into clear and actionable strategies.
Within the framework of strengthening partnerships, the workshop examined the roles of governmental, security, religious, educational, and health institutions in implementing programs to prevent violent extremism. Discussions highlighted the importance of supporting stabilization programs in return areas, enhancing the role of security actors in rehabilitation efforts, promoting moderate religious discourse, strengthening the role of educational institutions in reducing school dropout, expanding psychosocial support services, and improving youth livelihoods through vocational training and small business support, particularly in vulnerable areas.
The workshop also placed significant emphasis on activating the role of government institutions by proposing practical measures to strengthen community stability. These included facilitating administrative procedures for citizens, integrating returnees into educational programs, conducting field studies to assess indicators of extremism, and implementing awareness programs within and beyond educational institutions. At the same time, the importance of community participation in preventing extremism was strongly emphasized, particularly through engaging religious leaders in promoting moderation, involving tribal leaders in strengthening social cohesion, empowering youth and media actors in awareness campaigns, and engaging professional unions in prevention efforts.
Furthermore, the workshop highlighted the critical role of national and international non-governmental organizations in supporting the work of the sub-committee. This includes capacity building for members, implementation of psychosocial rehabilitation programs, provision of research and data, support for awareness campaigns, and mobilization of resources for community-based projects. These discussions contributed to building a comprehensive understanding of the complementary roles of various stakeholders in achieving sustainable results in preventing violent extremism.
The workshop resulted in a set of important outcomes reflecting a shift toward more structured and coordinated action. Participants agreed on developing practical recommendations to strengthen the performance of the sub-committee, establishing a framework for a network of organizations supporting PVE efforts in Nineveh, launching regular media and awareness campaigns, designing specialized training programs for committee members, and enhancing coordination mechanisms among stakeholders. Additional outcomes included the emphasis on forming youth committees across districts, implementing cultural, artistic, and awareness programs, strengthening the role of universities in promoting awareness, monitoring extremist media discourse, and providing psychosocial support to individuals at risk.
The workshop significantly contributed to strengthening the operational capacity of the sub-committee, improving coordination among stakeholders, and developing a shared understanding of extremism pathways. This supports the development of a more effective and context-responsive local strategy for preventing violent extremism in Nineveh. It also represents an important step toward reinforcing partnerships between government institutions and civil society, and empowering local actors to address challenges related to extremism.
Through this initiative, the Iraqi Institution for Development (IID) reaffirms its continued commitment to supporting national efforts to prevent violent extremism and to building a more stable and cohesive society based o