Strategy for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism in the Governorate of Anbar, Iraq

Transcription

1 استراتيجية مكافحة التطرف العنيف في محافظة االنبار Strategy for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism in the Governorate of Anbar, Iraq June 2017

2 UStrategy for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism Uin the Governorate of Anbar, Iraq A Comprehensive Medium Term Strategy to Provide a Roadmap to Prevent and Counter Violent Extremism June

3 UAbout Sanad for Peacebuilding Sanad for Peacebuilding is a non-governmental and non-profit organization, established in 2013 and registered under Iraqi law. Sanad aims to build and promote peace, democracy and human rights in Iraq by providing technical support and expertise to civil society networks, particularly to the Network of Iraqi Facilitators, which consists of a group of civil activists with expertise in conflict management, through facilitation and mediation mechanisms, in addition to observing and analyzing conflicts and capacity building in the field of peacebuilding. Sanad also provides technical and administrative support to the Alliance of Iraqi Minorities Network (AIM), which consists of a group of organizations representing various Iraqi minority groups, and works to achieve minority rights in Iraq through the mechanisms of advocacy and dialogue mechanisms. Sanad works within the frame of strategic partnership mechanisms with international and local government institutions. The organization is working in accordance with a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Reconciliation and Follow-up Committee of the Prime Minister's Office, the Parliamentary Endowments and Religious Affairs Committee and a strategic partnership with the US Institute of Peace. 2

4 Acknowledgements Many parties have participated in the development of this strategy, and we are proud to recognize these efforts. We express our special thanks to the followings: The local government of the Governorate of Anbar for its support and role in providing all necessary facilities to nominate the working team, and conducting consultations, and coordination and planning meetings from the outset of the project until the final draft of the strategy. The National Reconciliation and Follow-up Committee of the Prime Minister's Office for their active participation in most of the activities and dialogues within this initiative, and for their cooperation and partnership throughout the project. Community leaders, including tribal, religious clerics, academics, journalists, civic activists, women leaders and specialists from the community in Anbar who participated in shaping this strategy and ensuring its content reflects the existing reality of Anbar. UNDP for providing financial support for implementing and sponsoring this initiative. And the United States Institute of Peace for providing technical support in the drafting of the strategy. These harmonized efforts and the spirit of partnership amongst local and international actors have contributed to a realistic response to the needs of the local communities in Anbar, and to the gradual transition to stages of tolerance and peaceful coexistence. 3

5 Contents Acknowledgements... 3 Executive Summary... 5 The Development of the Concepts of Terrorism and Extremism... 6 Status Quo of the Governorate of Anbar and the Urgent Need to Prevent and Counter Violent Extremism... 6 Causes and Motives of Violent Extremism in the Governorate of Anbar... 6 Strategy for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism in the Governorate of Anbar... 6 The Strategy Action Plan... 6 Indicators of Violent Extremism in the Governorate of Anbar

6 Executive Summary The waves of violence and extremism are steadily and noticeably increasing in different regions of the world, with the growing role of terrorist entities and extremist groups such as Boko Haram, Al Qaeda and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). With these critical developments, most societies are suffering from a loss of security and protection, which in turn has engendered several negative consequences, including displacement and social tensions, and global change in politics towards more populist ideologies as a result of fear. The role of government, both national and sub-national, in responding to such threats is diverse and multifarious, and oftentimes only addresses the effects rather than the causes that made the waves of extremism grow and expand. International alliances and military campaigns to counter terrorism in Iraq and Syria are a clear example of such a kind of response. In Iraq, military approaches have been mainly employed to combat the bloodiest radical terrorist organizations, a fact which has culminated in successive victories to liberate Iraq from the control of ISIL. However, victory in military operations and the liberation of land does not necessarily mean reaching a sustainable state of peace and stability in Iraq. In this context, there is a need for Iraq s government and society along with international stakeholders to collaborate efforts to develop viable solutions that address the causes and motivations of extremist thought and violent behaviour in Iraq. Through the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and in partnership with the local government of the Governorate of Anbar, and the National Reconciliation and Follow-up Committee of the Prime Minister's Office, Sanad for Peacebuilding (Sanad) developed a strategy to counter violent extremism in the Governorate of Anbar. The development of the strategy also included the participation of academics, tribal and religious leaders, civic activists, and representatives of the Executive Authority, and Legislative Power. This strategy is considered a first step towards the adoption and implementation of a national strategy to counter and prevent extremism across Iraq. The present medium-term strategy aims to identify the appropriate mechanisms to address the local causes leading to the spread of violent extremism, and to create a safe and stable environment in the Governorate of Anbar. 5

7 This strategy relies on the following four essential concepts: 1. Collaboration: Preventive mechanisms to counter violent extremism are a collaborative responsibility that must involve all segments of the community, governmental institutions at both the local and federal levels, local and international civil society organizations. Therefore, responsibility to act against extremism and the achievement of success does not fall on one entity or the other, and is not ascribed to one specific party; rather it is a result of collective effortsu. 2. Inclusiveness: This strategy is based on achieving a comprehensive mechanisms that does not exclude any segment of the Anbar community, and does not adopt a specific partisan, political, or ideological orientation. The strategy includes viewpoints from various educational, religious, tribal, legal and other sectors, and, in general, is inclusive of all segments of society, such as community leaders, youth, women, civil activists and others. 3. Justice: Achieving justice within the official legal and institutional frameworks is a key principle of the strategy. 4. Local Leadership: The present strategy ensures that the communities, government and institutions in Anbar assume the leading role in implementing and achieving the objectives of this strategy. This strategy is designed in such a way that copes with the international frameworks and concepts to combat violent extremism, taking into account the specific details and the current reality of the Governorate of Anbar. Accordingly, the following objectives, which provide a general framework for the prevention and control of violent extremism in Anbar, have been identified: Strengthening the rule of law in achieving accountability and responsibility. Enhancing mutual trust between society and various institutions in the Governorate of Anbar. Promoting peaceful coexistence through dialogue and community participation. Activating the role of women and youth in decision-making and developing local policies. 6

8 The Development of the Concepts of Terrorism and Extremism 1 7

9 P United The terminology and concepts related to extremism have changed drastically since the events of 11 September 2001 in the United States (US). At the time, the media started focusing on the use of the term "new terrorism" instead of "terrorism" to denote violent acts committed by terrorist groups across 1 bordersp0f P. In US law, the definition of 'international terrorism" is defined as "involv[ing] violent acts or acts dangerous to human life that are a violation of the criminal laws of the United States or of any State ( ) which appear to be intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population; to influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion; or to affect the conduct of a 2 government by mass destruction, assassination, or kidnapping, etc. P1F P" As terrorist acts began targeting Europe the attack on the Spanish capital, Madrid in 2004, and the British capital city of London in 2005, European countries and the United States started using the term "combating violent 3 extremism" instead of "the war on terrorism.p2f P" Today, the United Nations (UN) employs the term 'Preventing Violent Extremism' as contained in the 4 Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism, adopted in December 2015P3F P, 5 within the framework of the 2006P4F Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. As for the difference between combating violent extremism and preventing violent extremism, the former emphasizes security measures as the means to reduce violence whereas the latter emphasizes a range of actions that would prevent extremism before violence occurs. If extremism leads to violence, it results in terrorist acts. The following table shows how extremism leads to violence. 1 Taryn Butler, The Media Construction of Terrorism Pre and Post-9/11, page 4, cited at: 2 U.S. Code, Title 18, Part 1, Chapter 113B Terrorism, 2331, cited at: 3 Owen Frazer & Christian Nünlist, The Concept of Countering Violent Extremism, CSS Analyses in Security Policy, N0. 183, December 2015, p. 2. Cited at:

10 Extremism / Violence "Extremism is a deviation from the values, norms and customs common in society, and the adoption of values and standards contrary to them. Extremism is the adoption by an individual (or community) a rigid attitude towards a particular thought (ideology or cause), trying to find a place for this attitude in the environment of this individual or group. Extremism may be positive: acceptance of this thought (ideology or cause), or negative, by total rejection of this thought, and moderation is halfway between acceptance and rejection. In either case, resorting to violence (individually or collectively) by the extremist party with the aim of imposing its values and standards on others, or with the aim of bringing about a change in the values and norms of society to which it belongs and imposing its opinion by force is a form of terrorism, and 6 organized terrorism.p5f P" Extremism is neither punishable by law, nor criminalized, whereas terrorism is a crime punishable by law. Extremism of thought is not punishable by law, because the latter does not punish the intentions and ideas, whereas the criminal terrorist behavior is a movement against the 7 rule of law, and it is hence criminalized.p6f P" In line with this, article 5 of the Plan of Action to Prevent of Violent Extremism 8 adopted by the UN General Assembly in December 2015 statesp7f P: Article 5: Plan of Action to Prevent of Violent Extremism of 2015 In its resolution 2178 (2014), the Security Council makes explicit the link between violent extremism and terrorism, underscores the importance of measures being in line with international norms and recognizes the need for prevention: violent extremism, which can be conducive to terrorism, requires collective efforts, including preventing radicalization, recruitment and mobilization of individuals into terrorist groups and becoming foreign terrorist fighters. In that resolution, the Council calls upon Member States to enhance efforts to counter this kind of violent extremism, 6 "المرصد العربي للتطرف واإلرهاب "مفهوم التطرف 7 التطرف وعالقته باإلرهاب "مؤسسة العراق تايمز االعالمية" 8 9

11 recognizing that international cooperation and any measures taken by Member States to prevent and combat terrorism must comply fully with the Charter of the United Nations. Violent extremism is a phenomenon that is characterized by diversity and defies any specific definition, especially with the rapidly evolving nature of extremism. It is not something new, nor limited to a specific region, nationality or a particular ideological system. However, terrorist groups (Islamic and non-islamic) such as ISIL, Al Qaeda, and Boko Haram group have, in recent years, shaped the perception of violent extremism and defined the debate on how to deal with this threat. The message of intolerance - religious, cultural and social - transmitted by these groups has led to serious consequences in many regions of the world. Through its efforts to occupy the land and its use of social media to communicate and spread its ideas and achievements simultaneously to various parts of the world, it tries to challenge the values of peace, justice and human dignity in which we all share. The spread of violent extremism has further exacerbated an unprecedented humanitarian crisis which transcends the borders of one specific region. Millions of people have fled the areas controlled by terrorist and violent extremist groups. Waves of immigrants seeking safety from conflict zones have increased and, conversely, migration towards these areas have increased as well, tempting immigrants to participate in the conflict as foreign terrorist militants, further destabilizing the areas in question. Although nothing justifies violent extremism, it must also be understood that it does not arise from a vacuum. Grievances and perceived injustices - whether real or imagined coupled with the promise of empowerment and radical change results in many, particularly the youth, to consider violent extremism. Violent extremists have managed to recruit more than 30,000 foreign terrorist fighters from over 100 countries heading towards the Syrian Arab Republic, Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya and Yemen. There is no doubt that some of them will be horrified by what they experience, but others have returned to their countries of origin - no doubt others will return - to spread hatred, extremism and violence in their own local communities. 10

12 Over the past two decades, the international community has sought to address violent extremism primarily within the context of the same counterterrorism measures of a security nature, which have been adopted to address the threat posed by Al Qaeda and its affiliates. However, with the emergence of a new generation of terrorist groups, there is growing international consensus that such counter-terrorism measures were not sufficient in preventing violent extremism. In fact, there is a broader category of violent extremism, and the confusion of these two terms may justify the overbroadening of the application of counter-terrorism measures to include forms of conduct for which the description of terrorist acts should not apply. Solutions painted with an all-encompassing single stroke will not be successful for the vastly differing global causes of violent extremism. 11

13 Status Quo of the Governorate of Anbar and the Urgent Need to Prevent and Counter Violent Extremism 2 12

14 The Governorate of Anbar is located in the western part of Iraq, with an area of approximately 138,600 square km. It is the largest Iraqi governorate and surrounded by six other governorates: Ninewah, Salah al-din, Baghdad, Babel, Karbala and Najaf. It has borderlines with three Arab countries as well: the Syrian Arab Republic, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and Saudi Arabia. From the administrative perspective, the governorate is divided into seven districts: Ramadi, Fallujah, Hit, Haditha, Ana, Al-Qaim, and Al-Rutba. Its population amounts to over 1.5 million. The Governorate of Anbar is witnessing great challenges with community relations, due to the crimes committed by ISIL, as well as the level of confidence building with the security institutions, and the administrative and judicial institutions, in addition to the challenges facing the governorate in terms of economic aspects, infrastructures and services. Government and community parties in Anbar agree on the need to increase collaborate efforts to combat extremist thought and behaviour, and to ensure the non-expansion and spread of violent extremism by means of the development of remedies for the causes and motives that lead to its expansion. Since 2003, cities within Anbar, such as Fallujah and Ramadi, have tended towards extremism. For this reason, Fallujah was one of the first cities to fall under the control of ISIL in January Leading up to the early months of Prime Minister Haider Al-Abadi s premiership, the Iraqi security forces lost control of Ramadi in May 2015, thus making the governorate of Anbar a priority for Al-Abadi. By December 2015, Ramadi was recaptured by Iraqi forces signifying the start of the liberation of Anbar, leading up to the liberation of ISIL s second largest captured city, Fallujah, in July Anbar still suffers from frequent ISIL attacks, with an assault by ISIL militants on the city in May The insecurity of the region has resulted in a continued humanitarian crisis, with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) estimating nearly 450,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) originally from Anbar. A major concern for many of the IDPs is lack of basic infrastructure. However, a difficult security vetting process and the presence of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) at checkpoints has barred many families from being able to return to their homes. 13

15 In spite of the military gains against ISIL in Anbar, concerns remain that extremist groups could return. As such, it is critical that a comprehensive strategy, one that tackles the drivers of extremism in the governorate, be developed. The following section reviews the main causes and motives before presenting a strategy to prevent extremism in the governorate. 14

16 Causes and Motives of Violent Extremism in the Governorate of Anbar 3 15

17 Through roundtables, interviews and focus groups with key stakeholders from Anbar, the following were found to be the main factors driving extremism in the governorate: Little trust amongst the citizens of Anbar towards the security forces of the Iraqi State, such as police and army, and their ability to provide security and protection: Particularly after the occupation of the governorate by Al Qaeda and ISIL, citizens found that informal armed forces, such as the Sons of Iraq forces, tribal forces and other groups are a more viable alternative to achieve security in their communities. This makes the citizens resort to the clan system or the popular mobilization crowds to claim rights and protection, and instead of official institutions such as the police or the judiciary. The feelings of marginalization, exclusion and non-participation in decision-making and public policies: In addition to the impacts of political conflicts on the administrative reality in the Governorate of Anbar, communities feels isolated due to the absence of an agreed upon political vision and the lack of space in which they can participate in local decisionmaking processes. Furthermore, there is an overall feeling that the achievements resulting from political participation are inevitably associated with political or partisan affiliation. The lack of transparency and inclusiveness in accountability mechanisms and lack of trust in the achievement of justice and the rule of law: Amongst the concerns that contribute to deepening the frustration and lack of confidence of the citizenry is the perceived corruptness of justice and accountability mechanisms. For example, there has been a history of heavy handed approaches implemented on citizens whereas political figures, security leaders (especially the non-professional ones) and others with connections enjoy immunity from the law. As such, communities have become distrustful of formal accountability processes and actors, a fact which helps push communities towards extremist groups who purport to be working for the protection of communities. Citizens still believe that formal justice and accountability mechanisms are putting innocent people in prisons and detention centres whilst allowing perpetrators of crimes to go free. In the Governorate of Anbar, citizens mostly contend that nepotism, social status, and political and regional influences create an obstacle to justice and the supremacy of law. The weak roles played by the security institutions also contribute to the spread of the phenomenon of revenge and retaliation outside the framework of the law, whether under the umbrella of tribal norms, 16

18 or implemented individually or in a systematic way. Also, there is a phenomenon of coerced displacement of the families affiliated with ISIL. This dynamic is one of the most powerful catalysts that contributes to the creation of new environments where extremism can flourish. The spread of unemployment and the absence of equal opportunities: Citizens noted that they have long complained about the lack of job opportunities in their areas and, when there are employment opportunities, the lack of equal access to them. The spread of unemployment and the absence of feeling of economic stability in the society, especially amongst youth makes the community easy prey to be exploited by extremist organizations that promise and offer economic incentives in return for community support. Exclusionist political discourse: Many political platforms and political discourses have long played a prominent role in deepening the gap between the segments of society, creating political and partisan loyalties at the expense of the loyalty to the country and the higher interests of society. Extremist religious discourse: One of the most important factors contributing to the rise of extremist behaviour in the Governorate of Anbar is the absence of religious discourse calling for tolerance and moderation. The citizens of Anbar believe that the success of ISIL in the recruitment of a large segment of young people in the name of religion was partly the result of the lack of moderate religious teachings and discourse: radical and extremist views were prevalent and nothing existed to counter those messages. Citizens still believe that the religious discourse today is heavily influenced by some political agendas, and does not reflect the supreme concepts and principles of Islam. The media discourse which provokes violence and division: In Anbar, communities believe that media discourse, including non-traditional media, such as social media, is one of the major reasons that contributed to creating an unstable environment and culture because of the sectarian and political alignments adopted by some media institutions. Media discourse continues to be viewed as divisive and a potential source of tensions. Weakness of educational institution and curriculum: The community in Anbar highlighted the weakness of the educational institution as being one of the reasons that contributed to the breeding of generations who adopt non- 17

19 moderate ideas. This includes the administrative behaviour in schools, the efficiency of teaching staff, and the viability of the methods of teaching, in addition to the curriculum at elementary, secondary and higher levels. The use of discourse preaching enmity and hatred, and its dissemination in the classroom is one of the reasons why, according to the community in the Governorate of Anbar, educational institutions nourish the principle of nontolerance towards the other, and promote fragmentation. In addition, there is an absence of activities and practices that contribute to the integration of teachers and administrative staff of schools with the families of the students. 18

20 Strategy for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism in the Governorate of Anbar 4 19

21 Vision: A society that is united in renouncing violence and extremism and supportive of realizing community peace through the adoption of the mechanisms of dialogue and transparency, and a local government that contributes to the promotion of the rule of law and good governance. Mission: It is a medium-term strategy from 2017 to 2019 that copes with the reality and the unique nature of the Governorate of Anbar, and represents a comprehensive roadmap to prevent and combat violent extremism in the governorate, and to provide public frameworks and mechanisms to prevent such extremism. The general principles and framework of the strategy: The general principles of the strategy are based on three basic pillars. The first is the Provisions of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in 2006; the second is the United Nations Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism in 2015; and the third is the results of the discussions entitled: The Development of Combating Violent Extremism Strategy in the Governorate of Anbar, conducted from January to April 2017 and organized by Sanad in the presence of a group of social, tribal, academic, religious, administrative elites, and some members of Anbar Provincial Council along with the private and civil sectors, as well as representatives of the National Reconciliation and Followup Committee of the Prime Minister's Office. The General Criteria: There are four main criteria for the strategy. The first is the general preventive treatment of the community: It includes a set of mechanisms and procedures that contribute to the development of realistic remedies that lead to the protection of society from resorting to violence and extremism. The second is the types of treatment targeting incubating environments of extremism and terrorism: It includes a set of mechanisms and actions that directly target the environments which foster extremist thought and behaviour, by promoting mechanisms of dialogue, social reconciliation and confidence-building, as well as enhancing the role of different institutions, particularly those of media and religion, in disseminating messages that aim at planting the concepts of moderation and tolerance, national identity and higher human values and other values. 20

22 The third is security provision within the framework of the law: It includes security, military and intelligence measures to confront terrorist groups, taking into account the proper application of legal and judicial standards and human rights. The fourth is reintegration into the safe community: It includes a set of measures that target those who decided to withdraw support for terrorist and extremist groups, and return to the peaceful community system, where the reintegration programmes are designed and implemented in parallel with the need to support legal and judicial institutions to enable them to play their role fully in order to achieve justice. Strategic Objectives 1. Enhancing the rule of law and transparency in accountability and justice. 2. Enhancing mutual trust between the society and the various institutions in the Governorate of Anbar. 3. Promoting peaceful coexistence through dialogue and community participation. 21

23 4. Activating the role of women and youth in decision-making and local public policies. The underlying concepts that frame the work to achieve the objectives and results of the strategy include: Collaboration Inclusiveness Achieving the preventive mechanisms combating violent extremism is a collaborative responsibility amongst the community, governmental institutions of both the local and federal levels, and local and international civil society organizations. Therefore, the achievement of success does not fall on one entity or the other, and is not ascribed to one specific party; rather it is a result of collective efforts. This strategy is based on achieving some comprehensive mechanisms that do not exclude or put away any of the parties of the Anbar community, without adopting a specific partisan or political or ideological orientation. The strategy also includes various educational, religious, tribal, legal and other sectors, and is inclusive of all segments of society, such as community leaders, youth, women, civil activists and others. Justice Achieving justice within the official legal and institutional frameworks. Local Leadership The strategy ensures that the society of Anbar, with its various sectors and slices, government and institutions, assumes the leading role in implementing and achieving the objectives of this strategy. 22

24 The Strategy Action Plan 5 23

25 Methodologies and General Mechanisms The First Pillar: The Preventive Treatment of Society in General Concerned Parties Local Government Steps Consolidating the intelligence efforts of the various security institutions concerned with the work of the security checking mechanism. Developing a joint mechanism with the central government, the Central Bank of Iraq and the private sector to provide job opportunities targeting the youth. Implementing programmes that aim at developing cadres in primary, intermediate and secondary schools to spread the culture of tolerance, non-violence and dialogue. Devoting educational materials for school students on peaceful coexistence in coordination with the Ministry of Education, with the curriculum prepared by experts and specialists. Developing agreements, regulations and mechanisms of monitoring and follow-up with local media institutions to ensure creating a neutral and moderate media discourse. Developing of agreements, controls and mechanisms of accountability with the Sunni Endowments to ensure creating a moderate religious discourse calling for moderation, tolerance and rejection of extremism. Activating the Advisory Council for Planning and Local Development of the Governorate. Supporting the formation of an independent civil advisory council consisting of civil activists, professors and elites, to develop and activate the role of community, especially youth and women, in decision-making and drafting local policies. Supporting the establishment of shadow councils to observe and monitor the performance of the Provincial Council and establish permanent monitoring systems for performance under what is known as social accountability. The central government Reviewing and reconsidering the controls and foundations adopted in the appointment of preachers and Imams of the mosques and providing legal cover for that. Forming a specialized technical committee to review the curricula contents that contradict with the principles and values of peaceful coexistence and pluralism. Providing the necessary allocations and resources to improve the conditions of prisons in the governorate, to separate the criminal jails and terrorist jails. 24

26 Forming joint and specialized committees to monitor any violations of human rights in prisons and detention centres. Preparing, qualifying and providing the governorate with professional and well-disciplined investigation officers. Assisting in making changes in policies and regulations related to support Anbar, taking into consideration that it is a disaster-stricken governorate. Civil Society Organizations Waqf (Endowments), Scholars and Preachers of Religion Community and Tribal leaders Implementing some awareness activities in society about the dangers of extremism and violence through traditional media outlets and modern social media. Intensifying efforts and programmes which are targeting the IDPs and returnees and enhancing the response to their needs. Increasing the efforts and programmes aiming to deepen moderate religious dialogue. Preparing projects for youth and women to ensure their participation in the implementation of development projects through the provision of small grants. Seriousness in monitoring the elections. Formulating programmes aimed at developing community youth leaderships. Reviewing and developing the admission regulations of schools, institutes and universities of Waqfs (Endowments). Forming some monitoring committees from the Waqfs Department to monitor violations and identify methods to deal with them. Reviewing and developing the regulations of the selection of scholars and preachers of mosques in a proper way from the experienced, competent individuals who are able to understand of the true religious texts. Guiding the religious discourse to be a moderate one. Encouraging tolerance in the face of violent extremism. Neutralizing the religious discourse and keeping it away from political contents. Criminalizing extremist and perverting ideas that lead to excessive behaviour. Reviewing all religious discourse. Activating the rule of law and coordination with the tribes. Establishing relationships between tribal communities in a way that serves the spirit of citizenship and loyalty to the country. Promoting joint coordination between tribal chieftains and civil society. Activating field visits within the same tribe and outside it by committees formed by the local government. 25

27 Media Outlets Donors and International Organization Security Institution Preparing awareness campaigns on the dangers of extremism, the importance of tolerance, coexistence, and the spirit of citizenship and peace. Activating the alternative media (social media), provided that the social communication plays the role of the primary means of combating extremism. Monitoring extremist religious and political discourse by the media channels. Mitigating the media that is supporting extremism of all types. Devoting dialogue programmes and talks shows dealing with spreading concepts and culture of dialogue, coexistence and national identity. Strengthening partnership and coordination between international organizations and civil society organizations in the implementation of projects that focus on youth and women and the social reintegration of extremists. Supporting reconstruction projects and infrastructure as a top priority. Strengthening the role of local police and community policing. Implementing internal accountability mechanisms to ensure the discipline and professionalism of the members of the various security services. The Judiciary Academia Strengthening the role of the judiciary in the security checking process. Developing some awareness and educational programmes to enhance the citizen's awareness of his/her rights and duties and the dissemination of legal culture in all slices of society in coordination with local and international civil society organizations. Resolving the suspended delayed cases in a speedy manner. Reshaping the educational curricula and rehabilitating teachers and rationalizing their educational discourse towards raising awareness and education away from extremism and radicalism. Publishing books and publications which address extremist thought. Increasing scientific research, studies, seminars, conferences, intellectual forums to counter extremism in thought and behaviour. The Second Pillar: Treatment of the Environment that Incubates Extremism Concerned Parties Steps 26

28 Local Government Central Government Local and International Civil Society Organizations Community Leaders and Tribal Chieftains Enhancing political representation in the governance to ensure the participation of all people in decision-making process and not to exclude any segment. Activating the role of administrative inspection in monitoring the implementation of construction and development projects carried out in the liberated areas. Supporting the formation of local reconciliation committees, including the various segments of society which will identify and address tensions and conflicts and prevent them from reaching advanced levels of violence. Supporting the implementation of trust-building programmes between the community and the security institutions, universities and schools, school administrations and families, etc. Compensating those who are affected by terrorist operations via transparent and fair mechanisms. Activating mechanisms of accountability and accountability for the corrupt and those who misuse their powers. Seeking to promote community reconciliation amongst community members through tribal leaders, mainly with regard to the conflicts that impede the safe voluntary return of IDPs. Allocating the necessary resources to compensate the families of victims of terrorism and extremism. Providing the necessary allocations and resources to establish sports, artistic and literary facilities to win and attract young people, to refine values and concepts of civil and moderate behaviour. Developing a joint action plan with the local government and sponsoring organizations to implement programmes for the reintegration of armed groups into society and official institutions. Legislating rehabilitation mechanisms for prisoners that may reduce their sentences. Coordinating with the local government for the return of IDPs to their homes Monitoring and following up the mechanism of investing funds allocated for the reconstruction of Anbar and ensure that they are not misused or wasted. Developing programmes that aim at rehabilitating survivors of terrorist attacks and arrests. Developing programmes that focus on women and enhance their social and political participation. Developing programmes that target the orphans and children. Each clan may target its members by raising awareness, warning and guidance against the dangers of extremism and violence. Creating dialogue within the tribal communities and forming committees of wise people amongst them. 27

29 Adapting or adjusting the tribal customs with the law. If the tribal customs support the law, this will lead to a better application of the latter. Encouraging initiatives that limit retaliation and revenge outside the law. Security Institutions Private Sector Academia Youth Strengthening the intelligence efforts to prevent people who are trying to mobilize citizens in favor of terrorist organizations. Reviewing and controlling the mechanisms of investigation, arrest, conviction and trial procedures within the frame of law and judiciary. Finding alternative solutions for making special camps for families of which one member has joined ISIL to avoid creating of new extremist groups. Qualifying officers in the security services to ensure their efficiency and good performance. Activating the security of prisons and detention centres and isolating extremists. Providing financial support for the urban reconstruction so that displaced families can return to their homes. Development of studies, researches and statistics in order to contribute to deterring the development of extremist concepts and behaviour in society. Enhancing the role of universities to be free and neutral platforms to create a majority that rejects violence, extremism and excessive fundamentalism. Organizing teams to provide educational, awareness and recreational courses for prisoners to confront the spread of extremist ideas during their periods of imprisonment. Promoting the spirit of voluntary work, and implementing the projects funded by international organizations to promote youth participation in their society. Establish youth groups within schools and universities to carry out awareness campaigns against extremist ideologies and promote messages of peace and love. Intensifying inter-regional sport games, and artistic activities to promote community integration and build sound and deep relationships amongst them. The Third Pillar: Security Treatment of Extremists Concerned Parties Steps Security Intuitions Accelerating the referral of the wanted persons to the judiciary. Protecting prisoners during their imprisonment to prevent them from resorting to violence after leaving prison. 28

30 The Judiciary Ensuring fairness and transparency in investigations. Checking and resolving issues related to terrorism. The Fourth Pillar: Integration Treatment of Extremists Returning to Society Concerned Parties Civil Society Organizations Steps Developing collaborative mechanisms with the security services, local and central governments, and human rights committees to implement reintegration and rehabilitation programmes during the sentence period in prison and after that. Tribes and Social Leaders Providing protection and care and contributing to their reintegration into civil life. 29

31 Indicators of Violent Extremism in the Governorate of Anbar 6 30

32 The main objective of determining the overall framework for monitoring and evaluation within the core of the Strategy for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism in the Governorate of Anbar is to provide a suitable supporting ground for determining the main aspects of this strategy. By identifying the main axes on which the monitoring framework depends and the objectives of each axis, in a manner that is consistent with the motivations and incentives of violent extremism in Anbar, the process of creating indicators of violent extremism and methods of measurement will be more practical and realistic. Additionally, this comprehensive framework will provide a clear vision for all parties engaged in preventing and combating violent extremism in order to measure the achievement of actions and initiatives for the strategic objectives set out in this strategy. Indicators that monitor and measure the level of conflict in the region, within a structured hierarchical follow-up framework, based on the goals, which will lead to achieving the strategic goals, can be set. This will enable decisionmakers to identify potential obstacles to stability before intervention, and also enable the observers to track the progress from the point of intervention through stabilization, till the achievement of sustainable peace. This follow-up or monitoring framework aims at identifying potential sources of continuing violence, conflict and instability, and measuring the capacity of institutions to overcome them. The aim behind this is to assist policy-makers and decisionmakers in setting realistic goals, providing adequate resources and strategically focusing their efforts, and promoting prospects for peace and stability. In this context, the Monitoring and Evaluation framework will be based on the following themes: 1. Safe environment 2. Political moderation and good governance 3. Rule of law 4. Sustainable economy 5. Social welfare 31

33 Safe environment Social welfare Political moderation and good governance Sustainable economy Rule of law The Safe Environment: Purpose: Armed groups responsible for political violence have been treated within the legal framework, and have been subjected to governmental authority, or disarmed and reintegrated into society. Under a legitimate government authority, the security forces provide a safe and peaceful environment for citizens, with a balanced and sustainable level of participation (such as the army and the police). In addition, the national security forces operate legally under the authority of the legitimate government, maintain the legitimate use of force, and provide a safe and peaceful environment for all. UObjectives: 1. Addressing political violence. 2. Reducing the popular support for violent factions. 3. Reducing the use of national security forces for political repression. 4. Compliance with security agreements. 5. Enhancing the performance of national security forces. 6. Strengthening accountability before the power of the legitimate government. 7. Enhancing public confidence in national security forces. 32

34 Political Moderation and Good Governance: Purpose: To address the competition for power and political grievances that generate violent conflict and direct them to non-violent mechanisms and participatory institutions at a regular level. The work of political institutions shall be lawful and within collaborative and transparent mechanisms without the need for international intervention to manage the competition for power peacefully and to reduce political violence. UObjectives: 1. Reducing competition for power. 2. Reducing political grievances. 3. Strengthening the provision of basic public services. 4. Strengthening the legitimacy and responsibility of the government. 5. Respect for electoral rights. 6. Enhancing the participation of citizens and civil society. 7. Promoting free and responsible media. Rule of Law: Purpose: To never allow exemption from punishment, presenting perpetrators to justice through the governmental authorities, which are made accountable through an independent judiciary; protecting basic human rights, enforcing law and strengthening local justice systems, both formal and informal ones, and providing a well-accepted process for peaceful settlement of disputes. UObjectives: 1. Addressing conflict incentives. 2. Promoting justice. 3. Reducing immunity from punishment. 4. Enhancing institutional performance. 5. Strengthening public order and safety. 6. Working according to justice and equality. 7. Enhancing judicial independence and government accountability. 8. Promoting respect for human rights. 9. Equality before the application of the law 10. Strengthening community support for the rule of law. Sustainable Economy: Purpose: Wealth should not be limited to one side over the other, and there should be equality between conflicting groups. Providing a capacitating environment for a market-based economy and job creation; collecting and protecting revenues for the provision of basic public services. Strengthening 33

35 the role of monitoring to preserve the economic environment which can create supportive conditions for the market-based economy which is capable of preventing the exploitation by greedy parties. The growth of the formal economy, creation of jobs and employment, and adequate revenues for the provision of basic services. Economic performance fulfills the qualifications of integration in the international economic systems. UObjectives: 1. Reducing conflict instigators. 2. Reducing the illegal political impact on the economy. 3. Reducing economic incentives for conflicts. 4. Economic equality between conflicting groups. 5. Reducing the effects of low economic level. 6. Sustainable economy. 7. Enhancing the institutional performance. 8. Strengthening infrastructures. 9. Enhancing the financial integrity. 10. Strengthening the governance and regulatory framework. 11. Strengthening financial institutions. 12. Enhancing employment. 13. Strengthening the private sector. 14. Natural resource management. 15. Enhancing economic performance and self-reliance. Social Welfare: Purpose: Addressing social divisions, social disintegration, displacement of population, and demographic changes that instigate violent conflict. Local institutions and provision of the basic of life (such as food, water and shelter), provision of social services (such as health care, education and sanitation), increasingly and equally. Promoting peaceful reconciliation and coexistence with the possibility of social institutions to manage the conflict peacefully; access to basic necessities and provision of social services with sufficient equality to maintain peace. UObjectives: 1. Reducing conflict instigators. 2. Addressing fragmentation, division and social disintegration. 3. Addressing homelessness. 4. Addressing demographic pressures. 5. Social welfare. 6. Enhancing institutional performance. 34

36 7. Provision of basic needs. 8. Strengthening basic social services. 9. Strengthening the process of peace. 10. Enhancing reconciliation processes. 11. Strengthening national identity and social capital. COPYRIGHT UNDP Iraq