Navigating Informal Peace Education Programs in Iraq: Challenges, Progress, and Pathways Forward

Abstract

Iraq has a long history of social unrest, sectarian violence, and ethnic conflict. Various Iraqi governments have used the education system to push their political goals, worsening these internal conflicts. After these difficult times, there is a strong need to create real peace through major changes in education. However, because of Iraq’s violent and divided past, achieving lasting peace through education is a tough challenge. This study looks at Iraq, including the Kurdistan Regional Government, and their efforts to reform the education system since 2003. Despite these efforts, one crucial element is missing: the deliberate inclusion of peace studies in the curriculum. Using a qualitative approach, this research explores Iraq’s attempts to integrate peace education programs into the higher education system. It explains both the strategies used and the challenges faced in implementing peace education. Additionally, this paper highlights possible ways for Iraq to advance peace education at all levels, from primary schools to universities.

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Hogr Tarkhani

Hogr Tarkhani is currently a Ph.D. candidate in the Political Science Department at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he also works as an instructor of record. His research interests span across a wide range of topics, including international relations, international security, peace and conflict studies, Middle East politics, terrorism, and counterterrorism, as well as war and peace. In addition, he served as a resources editor for the Journal of Peacebuilding and Development between January 2019 to August 2020. He can be reached at [email protected].