Training Workshop (Position Paper Writing)

The Iraqi Al-Amal Association, with support from the Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), conducted a four-day training workshop titled “Position Paper Writing” as part of the Democracy Promotion in Iraq project. The workshop, held from July [17-20], 2025, was held in Sulaymaniyah Governorate. 16 trainees from four governorates (Baghdad, Kirkuk, Najaf, and Anbar) participated.

The workshop aimed to develop the participants’ abilities to express their positions on societal issues in a systematic manner, focusing on drafting clear position papers supported by evidence, arguments, and clear recommendations for decision-makers. The workshop included a comprehensive explanation of the components of a position paper, the drafting mechanism, and the difference between position papers and policy papers. It also included intensive practical training that helped participants prepare position papers on various societal issues.

The workshop, presented by Dr. Ilham Makki, provided a rich training content that contributed to developing the participants’ skills in gathering and analyzing information and enhancing their ability to construct strong, scientifically based arguments.

The workshop concluded with a presentation of the position papers to the group and detailed feedback focused on improving the quality of the formulation and accuracy of the content. Participants expressed their satisfaction with the workshop content and the extent of the benefit achieved by the workshop, which aims to empower young men and women in the field of civic participation and build skills to influence decision-making.