Iraq faces extraordinary challenges in its complex transition to democracy. Managing this transition requires the correction of the abuses and distortions of years of autocratic regime by promoting the principles of democracy, the rule of law and human rights called for by the new Iraqi Constitution. The Constitution provides a framework for devolution meant to distribute legislative as well as executive decision-making powers in various fields among federal, regional and local bodies in order to address, in a flexible way, each specific issue which emerges at each of these levels.
Within the framework of its MENA Democracy Program, the NPWJ Iraq Project, started in 2006 and implemented through a strategic partnership with the International Alliance for Justice, is intended to contribute to the constitutional and institution-building process in Iraq by promoting negotiation between leaders from the entire political spectrum on the most politically sensitive issues, including in particular the attribution of responsibilities and powers at the various levels of the State, the Regions, the Governorates, the Towns and Municipalities.
By providing opportunities for open and informed debate, the NPWJ Iraq Project aims to prevent or defuse negotiation deadlocks arising from a priori ideological positions and to assist in identifying durable solutions within the flexible framework set by the new federal Constitution.
NPWJ Iraq Special Project is implemented through a strategic partnership with the International Alliance for Justice and is currently funded primarily by the Italian Government; additional funds are being sought from other donors.
