UNAMI, KR, Media, NGOs, Civil Society and Security Services participate in roundtable discussion on civic space

The UNAMI Human Rights Office (HRO), in cooperation with the Kurdistan Region's Office of the Coordinator for International Advocacy, organized a roundtable discussion in Erbil on civic space. The event held in Erbil brought together representatives from various security services with participants from civil society, including journalists, activists, and NGO representatives.

This initiative stems from a series of discussions with law enforcement officials that welcomed the opportunity to have a platform for dialogue between security forces and civil society to discuss matters of freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Dindar Zebari, Coordinator for International Advocacy, underlined that “to ensure accountability for violations, media and journalists play an essential role in monitoring human rights. However, more needs to be done, including practical education and training for all, including law enforcement as well as media, to warrant the adherence to international human rights norms and standards”.

“The protection of civic space remains a priority area for UNAMI HRO. We stand ready to provide further assistance under the umbrella of the Kurdistan Regional Action Plan for Human Rights, and to deepen our cooperation with all relevant stakeholders to advance the protection of human rights”, said Florian Razesberger, Senior Human Rights Officer of UNAMI.

Participants discussed concrete measures and recommendations to strengthen the promotion and protection of civic space in the Kurdistan Region. As one participating journalist stated: “Events like these are opening a gateway between security forces and civil society. It is critical to understand each other’s situation and I hope that this dialogue can continue in the future”.

The event was in line with Sustainable Development Goal 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.