In partnership with the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Iraq to the United Nations Office and other International Organisations in Geneva, the Iraqi Foundation for Foreign Policies, the Al-Basheer Foundation for Development and the Iraqi Commission of Media & Communications (CMC).

What role do the media and communication play in reconciliation efforts and peacebuilding processes? What are the challenges to dialogue as a peacebuilding tool between different groups in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa? How can young people and experts working in the field of peacebuilding operations be supported?

In 2004, an independent commission was established in Iraq to regulate communications, media, and information technology sectors. In this context media and communication serves as both catalyst and a bridge, facilitating the exchange of vital information, fostering understanding among diverse communities, and providing a platform for dialogue and reconciliation. Through various channels such as television, radio, print, and increasingly digital platforms, media has the potential to amplify voices, challenge biases, and promote narratives that contribute to conflict resolution and sustainable peace. This is particularly pertinent in a complex environment, where historical tensions, sectarian divides, and competing narratives require strategic and sensitive communication efforts to rebuild trust and de-escalate hostilities. How could this be done?

The event will provide an important opportunity for governmental and non-governmental institutions, civil society organizations, experts and workers in international and regional organizations in Europe and the Middle East and North Africa to identify priorities, challenges, opportunities, recommendations and suggestions that will contribute to the participation of experts and workers in the field of media and communications in peacebuilding processes between the conflicting parties in conflict-sensitive countries and minority communities and groups in the region.

Opening remarks:

• Ambassador Thomas Greminger, Executive Director, GCSP
• Ambassador Abdul-Karim Hashim Mostafa, Permanent Representative of Iraq to the United Nations Office in Geneva

Speakers:

• Minister Ali Al-Muayed
• Ambassador Abdul-Karim Hashim Mostafa
• Mr Laurent Sierro, Executive-in-Residence Fellow, Global Fellowship Initiative, GCSP and Journalist, Agence Télégraphique Suisse (ATS)
• Dr Christina Schori Liang, Head, Terrorism and PVE, Research and Policy Advice Department, GCSP

Moderator:

• Mr Paul Dziatkowiec, Director of Mediation and Peace Support, GCSP