In June 2024, the International Rescue Committee (IRC), alongside the Women Empowerment Organization (WEO), hosted a pivotal five-day training program in Iraq for 20 members of the Women Peace Network (WPN). This training, part of the Women in Local Leadership (WILL) initiative, provided targeted support to Iraqi women leaders to strengthen their leadership, communication, decision-making, and advocacy skills. Designed to empower women in their roles across diverse communities, the training sought to deepen the network’s alignment with Iraq’s National Strategy for Women Empowerment, equipping participants to drive change in their communities.

Led by influential figures like Ms. Suzan Aref, head of WEO and the WPN, the network has grown from a small 2011 initiative into Iraq’s largest women’s empowerment alliance. Reflecting on the network’s journey, Ms. Suzan emphasized the impact of the WILL training on network sustainability, as it brought together women from various backgrounds to share ideas and learn from one another. Participants were able to strategize for their organizations and the Women Peace Network’s collective future, fostering a collaborative environment essential for WPN’s expanding role in women’s rights and community leadership, and to successfully implement the Women, and Peace Security Agenda - WPSA.

The article also showcases the IRC and WEO’s commitment to addressing the unique needs of Iraqi women leaders through tailored contextualized capacity-building initiatives. Through the WILL training, these organizations have provided practical skills beyond theory, preparing women to lead and advocate effectively for resources, visibility, and partnership opportunities essential for sustained impact.

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