Introduction

In 2023, Eye’s University Organization, through support from the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), launched a two-year initiative aimed at strengthening democratic values and governance within higher education institutions across the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The project, backed by a $50,000 grant, seeks to foster transparency, accountability, and participation in universities, while promoting social justice, equal opportunities, and the rule of law.

The Challenge in Higher Education

Higher education institutions in Kurdistan play a central role in shaping society, influencing politics, economics, and cultural development. However, deep structural issues limit their potential.
According to data collected by CZO, nearly half (49.8%) of senior administrative positions in universities were filled illegally, often through political interference, and only 5% were held by women. Student representation also lacks gender inclusivity, with female participation remaining below 10%. In addition, outdated laws, weak institutional oversight, and bureaucratic barriers hinder reform and reduce the ability of universities to model good governance.

Objectives of the Project

The overarching goal is to promote rule of law and democratic principles within higher education institutions. Specifically, the initiative seeks to:

  • Raise public awareness about governance and the rule of law in universities.
  • Engage the Ministry of Higher Education and Parliament to revise outdated laws and propose reforms.
  • Produce a Roadmap for Reform to guide institutional changes.
  • Monitor and report on the level of compliance with higher education laws.

Expected outcomes include a stronger culture of accountability, more inclusive governance structures, and broader acceptance of reforms by key decision-makers.

Planned Activities

Over the 24-month period (July 2023 – June 2025), Eye’s University Organization will implement a range of activities:

  • Panel Discussions & Debates: Eight panels across Erbil, Sulaimaniyah, Duhok, and Halabja to discuss student elections and democratic participation, with livestreams and media coverage.
  • Monitoring & Reporting: Field visits, surveys, and data collection from at least 32 universities to evaluate adherence to education laws, followed by the publication of a comprehensive monitoring report.
  • Roadmap Development: Conducting focus groups and expert consultations to design a reform roadmap, printed and distributed widely.
  • Advocacy & Lobbying: Meetings with the Ministry of Higher Education, parliamentary committees, and other stakeholders to push for adoption of legal and structural reforms.
  • University Forums: Two large-scale conferences to present findings, discuss reforms, and bring together academics, civil society, media, and government officials.
  • Funding and Support

The initiative is funded by NED through Grant No. 2023-0426, totaling $50,000. Payments are scheduled in installments tied to project milestones and reporting obligations. The project budget covers staff salaries, university debates, monitoring activities, advocacy meetings, forums, and media outreach.

Long-Term Vision

By the end of the project in June 2025, Eye’s University Organization aims to leave behind stronger institutions capable of self-governance, transparent decision-making, and inclusive participation. The initiative also aspires to inspire broader reforms across Kurdistan’s higher education sector, linking academia more closely to democratic development and good governance.