An introductory overview of Baghdad Women Association
In 2004, a coalition of eleven distinguished Iraqi women, hailing from diverse elite backgrounds encompassing varied ethnicities, religions, and professional expertise, convened in Baghdad with a shared vision. Their collective purpose was to establish Baghdad Women Association (BWA) — an Association dedicated to serving the needs of women and girls, providing essential support to address the profound challenges faced by Iraqi women.
The formation of BWA was a response to the extensive suffering experienced by Iraqi women, transcending all facets of their lives — be it within the family unit, community dynamics, or political spheres. This adversity manifested from early stages of development, impacting women from their embryonic roles through subsequent life stages. Beyond contending with economic hardship, deprivation, and substandard living conditions during the lean years of the economic blockade imposed on Iraq and the prolonged international wars, Iraqi women grappled with profound personal losses. Fathers, brothers, and sons were lost during the protracted conflicts, further compounded by shifts in ruling systems and subsequent bitterness arising from arbitrary practices against Iraqi women as citizens and individuals. The ramifications were deeply felt on psychological, emotional, physical, and economic fronts.
In response to these pressing challenges, BWA was founded as a beacon of support and empowerment, seeking to address the holistic well-being of Iraqi women and girls. The organization has since evolved with a steadfast commitment to combatting violence, advocating for women’s rights, and fostering positive change in the lives of those it serves.)
General Description:
The primary role of the Community Mobilizer in the Preventing Violent Extremism (PVE) project in Kirkuk is to engage with local communities, build trust, and foster positive relationships that contribute to community resilience, social cohesion, and the prevention of violent extremism. The Community Mobilizer will play a key role in identifying community needs, promoting inclusive dialogue, and facilitating meaningful participation in project activities.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Mobilize diverse community members, including youth, women, religious and tribal leaders, to raise awareness of PVE-related issues and encourage their involvement in project activities.
- Disseminate information about the project’s goals, planned activities, and benefits in a culturally sensitive manner.
- Build strong networks with key community actors to promote participation in peacebuilding and community protection initiatives.
- Support the organization and facilitation of events such as training sessions, workshops, community consultations, and focus group discussions on topics related to social cohesion, reintegration, and conflict prevention.
- Act as a focal point between the Community Team Leader and local stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and positive engagement with local authorities (formal and informal) and community representatives.
- Coordinate with relevant actors (NGOs, government institutions, community groups) to ensure that community needs are effectively addressed and that efforts are complementary.
- Facilitate regular community dialogues and listening sessions to gather feedback, identify concerns, and build trust among participants.
- Assist in identifying vulnerable groups, returnees, and at-risk youth, ensuring they are included in relevant project activities.
- Prepare accurate and timely reports on activities and community feedback and share them with the project management team.
- Adapt to flexible schedules and logistical limitations while maintaining the quality of community outreach activities.
- Perform any other tasks assigned by the Project Manager related to the implementation of the project.
Job Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in social work, Psychology, Community Development, Peacebuilding, or a related field (preferred).
- 1–2 years of experience in community mobilization, peacebuilding, or working on projects related to social cohesion or PVE.
- Proven experience organizing and facilitating community-based events, training, or awareness sessions.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, especially in conflict-sensitive environments.
- Ability to effectively engage with a wide range of stakeholders including community leaders, youth groups, and local authorities.
- Fluency in Arabic and/or Kurdish (spoken and written); knowledge of Turkmen is an asset.
- Basic English communication skills are an advantage.
- Good understanding of the socio-political and cultural context of Kirkuk and surrounding areas.
