Ishtar Center for Democracy Support

About the Center

Ishtar Center for Democracy Support is an Iraqi non-governmental civil organization working to advance democracy in Iraq. It works to improve democratic performance among decision-makers and to build an active democratic society by strengthening political participation at both the individual and institutional levels.

The center was launched in Najaf through an initiative by a group of youth interested in public affairs. Activities began before the establishment of the center in 2015 through meetings and roundtables to exchange views on issues concerning the state and society. Later, the 'Ishtar Political Club' was established on social media to connect active youth with influential community elites and decision-makers. Eventually, the 'Ishtar Center for Democracy Support' was founded as a social hub, bringing together experts, opinion leaders, politicians, government officials, researchers, academics, religious figures, media professionals, and prominent activists in the Iraqi scene.

The center works to engage the community in shaping public policies and enhancing democratic practices through various programs, including roundtables, discussion sessions, conferences, seminars, and workshops with the participation of decision-makers, research and academic centers, and local and international organizations. These activities aim to produce recommendations, proposals, plans, and policy papers that are presented to relevant individuals, entities, or institutions. The center acts as a lobbying group pushing for the enactment and amendment of laws and the issuance of government decisions that address societal issues and serve national interests, thereby supporting the establishment of a solid and sustainable democracy.