Conf. English

First: Notion of the Conference

Thirty-three years have passed since the adoption of the Kurdistan National Assembly Election Law No. 1 of 1992 by the Kurdistan Front, which introduced de facto autonomy and a parliamentary system in Kurdistan. Additionally, two decades have elapsed since the adoption of the Iraqi Constitution in 2005, which officially recognized the Kurdistan Region as a constitutionally defined entity within the framework of the Federal Republic of Iraq. The federal constitution granted the region the right to self-governance, regulating its political system, constitutional powers, and guaranteeing rights and freedoms.

Despite these constitutional advancements, the political structure of the Kurdistan Region remains in a transitional phase—shifting from post-political conflict governance towards institutional and constitutional governance. This transition has had a significant impact on the governance process, shaping both the present and future of the Kurdistan Region at local and international levels.

Drafting a modern constitution for the Kurdistan Region would serve as a vital social contract, helping to build a shared historical narrative, legitimize political power, foster national unity, and define the region’s identity. Such a constitution would be a crucial step in strengthening democracy, the rule of law, and institutional governance. Moreover, it would enhance the Kurdistan Region’s relations with the Iraqi Federal Government, as well as with regional and international actors. It would also play a key role in ensuring citizens' rights and freedoms while safeguarding the rights of future generations.

Given the Kurdistan Region’s central role in regional political conflicts and challenges, this scientific conference provides an opportunity to explore constitutional governance through the development of a modern, written constitution. It will serve as a platform to address obstacles, analyze current challenges, and better understand the future of governance in the region.

Second: Conference aims

1. Constitution Drafting Process: Examining the steps involved in drafting a constitution for the Kurdistan Region, assessing the readiness of political will, and identifying obstacles and challenges.

2. Importance and Impact of the Constitution: Analyzing the necessity of a constitution and its implications for the Kurdistan Region’s domestic affairs, its relationship with the federal government, and its standing with regional and international actors.

3. Legal and Political Gaps: Presenting academic research on the legal and political gaps in the Kurdistan Region and proposing necessary solutions.

Third: Conference Themes

1. The Role and Necessity of a Constitution: Defining the Kurdistan Region’s identity, political system, and the organization of constitutional powers.

2. Challenges in Constitution Drafting: Identifying the key obstacles and challenges in drafting a constitution for the Kurdistan Region.

3. Protection of Rights and Freedoms: Exploring the role of the constitution in ensuring and protecting human rights, freedoms, and social justice.

4. Institutionalizing Governance: Examining how the constitution can strengthen institutional governance, including the unification of the Peshmerga forces, national security policies, and the role of oversight institutions in upholding governance principles.

5. Economic Development and Wealth Distribution: Assessing the role of the constitution in shaping national economic policy and ensuring fair distribution of income and wealth for the public good.

6. Public and Legislative Policy: Evaluating how the constitution influences public policy, legislative processes, political discourse, and the Kurdistan Region’s relationship with the federal government.

7. International Relations and Political Future: Discussing the impact of constitutional drafting on the Kurdistan Region’s international relations and its political future.

Fourth: Key Dates

·       Conference Announcement: February 20, 225

·       Abstract Submission Deadline: April 1, 2025

·       Abstract Approval Notification: April 20, 2025

·       Full Paper Submission Deadline: August 10, 2025

·       Paper Approval Notification: September 10, 2025

·       Conference Date: October 20, 2025

Fifth: Guidelines for Research Submission and Publication

Papers should adhere to the guidelines provided by the Twejer journal, available at the following link:

https://journals.soran.edu.iq/index.php/Twejer/Guide

Sixth: Important Notes

·       Abstracts and papers will be accepted in Kurdish, Arabic, or English.

·       The conference will be held at Soran University, Delzian Campus.

·       Participation and attendance are free of charge.

·       Accepted papers will be published in a special issue of the Twejer journal at the expense of the conference.

·       The conference will cover hotel accommodations for two nights and provide lunch on the conference day.

·       Conference Venue: Soran University – Dr. Farsat Sofi Hall.