Overview

The Transformative Justice Project, implemented by Al-Mesalla in partnership with Pax and Amnesty International and supported by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aims to promote social cohesion, address the harsh and violent past, prevent the recurrence of conflicts and societal problems, and activate the role and participation of youth, women, and marginalized groups in conflict resolution and decision-making. This is achieved by providing logistical and technical support, as well as grants for events organized by local organizations, volunteer teams, and community initiatives within the framework of the project, ensuring inclusiveness and diversity regardless of race, religion, gender, authority, or cultural level. The idea for the Transformative Justice Project originated from the Local Peace Committees Project (2018-2021). During this project, Al-Mesalla, in partnership with Pax, established four local peace committees in western Nineveh (in Zummar, Rabia, Sinuni, and Ayadiya). These committees supported initiatives that promoted social cohesion, peaceful coexistence, conflict resolution, and advocacy for community priorities. The concept evolved into providing open support for local organizations and volunteer teams to work on transformative justice mechanisms that focus on social cohesion, peaceful coexistence, and conflict resolution, with a particular emphasis on addressing the past.

Project Objectives

1. First specific goal: Victims and those affected by human rights violations and violent conflict in Nineveh (especially those marginalized based on gender, age, and ethnicity) will play a crucial role in influencing transformative justice (addressing the past and ensuring non-repetition) and accountability processes to make them more inclusive. This is achieved by emphasizing the importance of norms, roles, and social relationships that encompass all groups.
2. Second specific goal: Increase cooperation among victim groups to jointly defend their rights and access local, national, and international justice mechanisms and channels.

Services provided by the project

1. Facilitate coordination, cooperation, and communication with local organizations and volunteer teams to organize and plan activities within the framework of the project.
2. Provide material, logistical, and technical support for the implementation of initiatives and activities.
3. Offer training and workshops for capacity building and development.

Project Activities:

1. Needs Assessment: Conduct needs assessments to identify the specific requirements and challenges faced by affected populations.
2. Awareness Reports and Leaflets: Regular publication of reports and leaflets to raise awareness and disseminate information on victims' rights and reparations.
3. Stakeholder Engagement: Organize meetings with stakeholders to promote dialogue, cooperation, and teamwork towards addressing issues within the reparations process.
4. Participation in Conferences and Events: Representation at international conferences and events to amplify victims' voices and advocate for systemic changes on a global scale.

Through its multifaceted approach, the project not only aims to address immediate concerns but also paves the way for lasting systemic reforms that support the rights and dignity of victims in Nineveh Governorate.