The conference statement, issued six weeks before the final withdrawal of US
forces, focuses on social justice, human rights, freedom, and self-determination for Iraqi
citizens.

Iraqi activists from trade unions, women’s and human rights organizations, youth programs,
journalist syndicates and peace networks, joined together with over 100 international
partners as the Iraqi Civil Society Solidarity Initiative (ICSSI). Meeting since 2009, this year’s
ICCSI agenda focused discussions on four vital sectors of Iraqi civil society.

1. Iraqi trade unions in all sectors, seek the development of new labor laws to guarantee
workers’ rights, especially the right to demonstrate and strike.

2. Iraqi journalists demand freedom from government restrictions and protection from
civil society organizations.

3. Iraqi women insist upon full rights and equality under the law. Conference
participants denounced all violence against women and all traditions that violate
women’s rights and prevent them from reaching their full capacity.

4. Iraqi youth, an important force for change and social progress, seek opportunities in
education and employment; encouraging civil society and government to work
together to develop Iraq’s young generations.

Expert panelists and the audience examined two critical issues: 1) the negative effects of oil
privatization and 2) the devastation of Iraq’s environment and the increase in very serious
health effects caused by the war. Those present agreed that these issues require extensive
study and immediate action by civil society organizations and activists within and outside of
Iraq.

Firmly committed to these goals, the international members of ICSSI committed their support
to Iraqi NGOs as they take a decisive role in shaping Iraq’s future, addressing problems of
unemployment, corruption, and lack of services. Solutions such as open dialogue,
partnerships development, collaboration, advocacy and participation in the upcoming World
Social Forums arose from numerous discussions.

Members of the ICSSI will be working together over the next year to plan and carry out
solidarity campaigns to advance specific goals that the ICSSI conference participants
identified.

For more information, contact us by writing to: icssi.project@gmail.org
Visit our website and download the final statement in different languages at: [http://www.iraqicivilsociety.org/archives/275](http://www.iraqicivilsociety.org/archives/275)