On September 17, 2020, Aran Organization conducted a clinical legal workshop in Koya, held at Maly Roshnbirany Koya, focusing on the impacts of political party interference in government affairs, particularly in job opportunities. The workshop, attended by eight victims of such interference, was led by lawyer Sami Sati and supported by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED).

Workshop Highlights

Participants discussed the detrimental effects of political party interference on employment opportunities. A key issue highlighted was the prevalence of state employees holding second jobs in the private sector due to political party backing. This practice violates Iraq’s State Employees Law, which prohibits dual employment, and disproportionately affects thousands of young people unable to find jobs.

Legal Context

The State Employees Law in Iraq stipulates that government employees are not allowed to hold additional jobs. However, in the Kurdistan Region, political parties often encourage their members in public service roles to secure secondary employment, bypassing this law. This practice not only contravenes legal provisions but also exacerbates unemployment, depriving countless youth of opportunities.

Aran’s Clinical Legal Initiative

The Clinical Legal Initiative of Aran Organization, supported by NED, operates in Chamchamal, Halabja, and Koya. Its activities aim to address these issues through:

1. Workshops: Educating victims about the legal framework, including provisions of the State Employees Law, and discussing the pathways to justice.
2. Judicial Complaints: Assisting victims in filing legal complaints with the general attorney in each city and following up on these cases through Aran’s legal team.

Goals

• Raise awareness about legal rights and the harmful impact of political interference in government hiring practices.
• Support victims in seeking justice and advocating for the enforcement of existing laws.
• Highlight the importance of equitable job opportunities for youth in the Kurdistan Region.

This workshop is part of Aran’s broader efforts to combat political interference in governance, uphold the rule of law, and promote equal opportunities for all citizens.