Despite the challenging situation Wadi and it’s partners in Iraqi-Kurdistan, Iraq, Greece and Syria continued their various activities and were able to expand project and programs in 2025.
You can read about all these projects, campaigns and activities in our newly released 2025 Report.
In the past year the social and societal challenges in the Middle East have not become any less. The persistent non-payment of civil servants, coupled with other economic hardships, local political tensions and ongoing regional conflicts has made life hard for many people in Iraq. However, our extended partner network has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Despite the increasingly challenging environment that has led many organizations to shut down or at least face significant financial pressures due to funding cuts from many key international donors, we have managed to navigate these difficulties. Our partners have embraced this challenge with openness and adaptability, actively identifying and addressing the gaps in support.
Newly established Active Citizenship Network
Our newly established local network is an innovative initiative that empowers partners to tackle long-standing issues in dynamic and engaging ways. Without a prescribed working method, they have seized the opportunity to observe challenges firsthand, collaborate with local communities, and experiment with various strategies to find effective solutions. This newfound freedom has fostered creativity, allowing our partners to develop exciting and impactful approaches to local issues. They truly rose to the occasion, showcasing their commitment to making a difference.
Community driven solutions
The network is currently focused on enhancing collaboration across multiple sectors to create synergistic effects and complement the efforts of major international aid organizations by fostering local, self-directed assistance and developing community-driven solutions to humanitarian and human rights challenges. This effort is part of a comprehensive program named ‘Active Citizenship,’ run by Wadi alongside various partner organizations in Northern Iraq. The project is dedicated to empowering local communities by encouraging active involvement and partnership with governmental bodies, NGOs, and individuals. It encompasses issues such as child rights and youth empowerment, environmental conservation, media advocacy, citizenship education, school initiatives, public health, and raising awareness about female genital mutilation (FGM) and gender-based violence.
Amid the ongoing economic crisis, which has persisted for over a decade, many citizens face significant challenges, including delayed salary payments that have sparked widespread frustration. Coupled with environmental issues like climate change, rising temperatures, and dwindling water supplies, attracting participants to seminars has become increasingly difficult. Additionally, maintaining their focus during these sessions remains a persistent challenge. Nevertheless, the resilient structure of our partner network played a crucial role in maintaining morale and sustaining efforts, even during difficult times.
Refugee self organization in Greece
And once again, we’ve extended our support to local initiatives for refugees on Lesbos, Greece. These efforts, driven by the refugees themselves, tackle a wide range of issues faced by camp residents, including the management of electricity, waste collection, informal educational programs, and various skill-building activities. These activities are essential for uplifting community spirit.
We are grateful to our dedicated individual and institutional donors, whose contributions enable our campaigns for democratization and human rights, as well as our swift response efforts when crises arise.
Please sonsider to support all these ongoing programs and activities with your donation in 2026 too.
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