Iraqi Al-Amal Association
Baghdad, Iraq

About the Iraqi Al-Amal Association
The Iraqi Al-Amal Association (IAA) was established in 1992 in response to the horrific humanitarian situation in post-Gulf War Iraq. It is a non-political, non-sectarian association of volunteers actively engaged in projects for the benefit and well being of the Iraqi population, regardless of race, political or religious denomination. IAA aims to provide aid to relieve the suffering of the Iraqi people and establish a just and democratic society. The activities of the Association are directed towards improving the social conditions and social fabric of the people of Iraq.

IAA is devoted to contributing to the building of a democratic civil society in post-war Iraq, a process that includes the healing of social and psychological wounds left by Iraq’s turbulent history in the past two decades. IAA plans to contribute to the rebuilding of the Iraqi citizen and to influence social consciousness through programs that aim to combat all forms of violence and discrimination. Central to this is the promotion of a culture of human rights, tolerance and peace, especially among youth.

No War Zone and Iraqi youth
As participants in No War Zone, eighty Iraqi youth take part in peer support groups that work in collaboration with other No War Zone members to create projects that will benefit their communities, increasing responsibility, autonomy, creativity and solidarity amongst youth participants and their families, communities and country. Conflict resolution and peacebuilding are central to the involvement of Iraqi youth with No War Zone, ensuring that they have these essential skills. As part of their work with the peer supports groups, youth participate in workshops on conflict resolution and peacebuilding, and then train other youth in what they have learned, creating a ripple effect of education in their community. Through open dialogue and the use of creative expression, youth learn about their rights and responsibilities as global citizens and expand their knowledge of Iraqi history and culture, empowering them to become non-violent peace builders in their communities.

Youth have the opportunity to take part in a series of workshops on topics such as human rights, cultural awareness, and project management and team building. By involving successful Iraqis from different walks of life and showcasing opportunities for youth both within Iraq and internationally, the workshops aim to inspire young people to gain a hopeful outlook on their prospects for the future and to take active roles in their communities. Through No War Zone, youth are developing their English language and information and communication technology skills, providing them with useful skills that they will be able to use to gain employment and contribute to the rebuilding of Iraq.