The Peace and Freedom organization - PFO organized a three-day training in Erbil from 16–18 June 2026, bringing together representatives of trade unions, workers’ syndicates, and labour organizations from different governorates of Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. Participants included representatives from unions operating in the oil and gas, agriculture, private transportation, construction, and sectors, as well as actors working on awareness raising, safety, and the monitoring of working conditions.
The training aimed to strengthen the capacities of union and syndicate representatives in the area of good governance, with a particular focus on governance structures, policy development, effective communication with members, and advocacy efforts through a participatory approach that encouraged the exchange of experiences and knowledge. Over the course of the three days, participants explored topics related to democratic governance, member participation and responsiveness, institutional policies and procedures, action planning, and risk assessment and management. The workshop also included practical exercises, group work, and interactive activities that enhanced learning and facilitated the exchange of best practices among participants.
The training contributed to strengthening the leadership, managerial, and institutional capacities of participants, supporting the role of trade unions and workers’ syndicates in promoting workers’ rights and freedom of association, while enhancing their institutional performance and ability to provide more effective services to their members.
This activity is part of the project “The Impact of Civil Society Organizations on Reducing Inequality in Iraq,” implemented by the Peace and Freedom Organization in partnership with Norwegian People’s Aid.
