First ICoCA Workshop for CSOs Operating in Iraq and the Region

Amman, Jordan – On 28 February 2018, the International Code of Conduct Association (ICoCA) hosted 14 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) operating in Iraq and the region for a day-long workshop. This was the first such event for the Association in the region to broaden the ICoCA’s global CSO network and to identify opportunities to ensure the responsible provision of private security services.

Organizations and representatives included those specializing in the promotion of international humanitarian law, security and human rights, combatting human trafficking, conflict resolution, women, gender and peace-building.

During the workshop possible areas of collaboration and pathways to engage private security companies operating in Iraq and the region were discussed. These included human rights training, support in carrying out human rights impact assessments, community engagement and dispute resolution.

Also while in Amman, the ICoCA presented at the Quarterly Meeting of the MENA Region Humanitarian & Security Forum. Created in 2015, the Forum convenes regional safety and security representatives from humanitarian organizations in an effort to promote the safe and secure conduct of humanitarian operations. Discussions focused on the realities of contracting private security providers in the region, and the potential added value for clients in working with ICoCA Member companies in Iraq and the region.

The CSO workshop and Quarterly Meeting in Amman follow the Association’s first Field Based Review carried out in Iraq in November 2017.