[Chapter-delegates] Chapter Formation in Iraq

Ricky Mahabir rickypm at gmail.com
Mon Mar 18 11:23:07 PDT 2024


Dear all,

This is a great initiative.
My only objection is *A *the name of the Chapter as mentioned. I am of the
opinion that the mentioned name can cause confusion as it can cover a wide
range of topics and can easily be mistaken for a humanitarian or agri
organization.

Kind regards,

Ricky P. Mahabir
FY 2023 - 2024 Service Chairperson | Lions Club Parwani | (LC Member
#5276037, *MJF*)
Commissaris Sportclub De Dolfijn (Bar, Keuken en Recreatie)
JCI Senator # 81045
2021-2023 Secretary ISOC Suriname Chapter (www.isoc.org)

Voorzitter Key Jaycees / Past President | JCI Suriname
/ JCI Nilom

Mobile: +597-7697377 / +597-8727832 | e-mail: rickypm at gmail.com | Skype:
rmahabir

"Be the change you want to see in the world." - Mahatma Gandhi


On Mon, Mar 18, 2024 at 1:18 PM Hana Sabbagh via Chapter-delegates <
chapter-delegates at elists.isoc.org> wrote:

> Dear Chapter Leaders,
>
> We recently received, below, an application to start an Internet Society
> Chapter in Iraq. I kindly invite you to review it and share any feedback
> by Tuesday, April 2, 2024.
>
> Your comments are highly appreciated and useful for the overall review and
> approval of this application.
>
>
>
> Kind Regards
>
>
>
> Hana
>
> *Hana Sabbagh**,* Community Engagement Manager, ME & Africa
> sabbagh at isoc.org |
> [image: A close up of a sign Description automatically generated]
> internetsociety.org <https://www.internetsociety.org/>| @internetsociety
> <https://www.internetsociety.org/follow-us/>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> *Application:*
>
>
>
> *A. Proposed name of the Chapter*
>
> Al-Reada Wal-Izdehar Organization for Sustainable Development | منظمة
> الريادة والازدهار للتنمية المستدامة
>
>
>
> *B. Community of Interest the Chapter will serve*
>
>
>
> ISOC Iraq Chapter will operate to serve the community in the entire
> country (Iraq), whether that would be on the ground or online when
> obstacles are raised on the ground.
>
>
>
> *C. Purpose and scope of Chapter*
>
>
>
> *Introduction:* In an era defined by digital connectivity, the Internet
> has become an integral part of our daily lives, influencing how we
> communicate, access information, and participate in the global community.
> The establishment of the Internet Society (ISOC) Chapter in Iraq aims to
> address the unique needs of the Iraqi community in the digital landscape,
> fostering digital literacy, promoting online safety, protecting digital
> rights, and advocating for an open, free, and secure Internet.
>
> *Objectives:*
>
>    1. *Digital Literacy:*
>       - *Mission:* Bridge the digital divide by providing comprehensive
>       digital literacy programs.
>       - *Approach:* Conduct workshops, webinars, and community outreach
>       initiatives to enhance digital skills, enabling individuals to navigate and
>       utilize online resources effectively.
>    2. *Internet Benefits in the Present Era:*
>       - *Mission:* Showcase the manifold advantages of the Internet for
>       personal, educational, and economic development.
>       - *Approach:* Develop educational materials, case studies, and
>       success stories to illustrate the positive impact of the Internet on
>       various aspects of daily life.
>    3. *Online Safety:*
>       - *Mission:* Equip the community with tools and knowledge to
>       protect themselves in the digital realm.
>       - *Approach:* Organize cybersecurity awareness campaigns,
>       collaborate with experts to provide resources, and share best practices for
>       safe online behavior.
>    4. *Digital Rights:*
>       - *Mission:* Advocate for and educate the community on their rights
>       in the digital space.
>       - *Approach:* Engage in policy discussions, conduct awareness
>       sessions on digital rights, and collaborate with legal experts to address
>       issues related to online privacy, freedom of expression, and data
>       protection.
>    5. *Open, Free, and Secure Internet:*
>       - *Mission:* Champion the principles of an open, free, and secure
>       Internet as a public good.
>       - *Approach:* Organize public forums, participate in policy
>       advocacy, and collaborate with national and international entities to
>       ensure that the Internet remains a global resource that benefits all.
>
> *Why ISOC Chapter Iraq:* Establishing an ISOC Chapter in Iraq provides a
> structured and collaborative platform to address the unique challenges and
> opportunities presented by the digital age. Here's why it is a valuable
> initiative:
>
>    1. *Global Network:*
>       - Tap into ISOC's global network to access resources, best
>       practices, and expertise, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
>    2. *Policy Advocacy:*
>       - Leverage ISOC's advocacy framework to influence policies that
>       impact Internet governance, ensuring the interests and rights of the Iraqi
>       community are well-represented.
>    3. *Community Building:*
>       - Establish a vibrant community of like-minded individuals and
>       organizations dedicated to shaping the future of the Internet in Iraq.
>    4. *Capacity Building:*
>       - Benefit from ISOC's capacity-building initiatives, enhancing the
>       capabilities of local stakeholders in areas such as technology, policy, and
>       community engagement.
>    5. *Unified Voice:*
>       - Amplify the voice of the Iraqi community on the global stage,
>       contributing to the dialogue on shaping a digital future that aligns with
>       local values and aspirations.
>
> ISOC Iraq Chapter, with the support of the Internet Society and
> stakeholders parteners, will work to build a digital step-by-step future
> that empowers, protects, and unites the Iraqi community. The ISOC Chapter
> Iraq is committed to ensuring that the Internet remains a force for good,
> fostering inclusivity, innovation, and progress. Together, we would
> navigate the digital landscape and harness the transformative power of the
> Internet for the benefit of all.
>
>
>
>
>
> *D. Outline of key priorities for the first year of Chapter*
>
> In our inaugural year, the Internet Society Chapter in Iraq will focus on
> key initiatives to empower the community and advocate for a secure, open
> internet. Our concise plan includes:
>
>    1. *Community Engagement:*
>       - Launch targeted outreach campaigns.
>       - Conduct digital literacy workshops.
>    2. *Advocacy for Internet Freedom:*
>       - Advocate for policies supporting an open and secure internet.
>       - Engage with policymakers and civil society.
>    3. *Partnerships and Membership Growth:*
>       - Establish partnerships for collaborative projects.
>       - Implement membership drives and exclusive events.
>    4. *Capacity Building:*
>       - Organize capacity-building workshops.
>    5. *Online Presence:*
>       - Establish an official website and social media channels.
>       - Communicate regularly through newsletters and blogs.
>
> This streamlined approach ensures a focused effort on building a
> connected, knowledgeable, and empowered digital community in Iraq during
> our first year of operation.
>
>
>
> *E. **Founding members of the Chapter*
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Aws Al-Saadi
>
> Affiliations: Tech4Peace
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Ameerah Ali Khaleel
>
> Affiliations: Tech4Peace
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Mohammad Zangana
>
> Affiliations: Nidal Association for Human Rights
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Sarah Jassim Mohammed
>
> Affiliations: Iraqi Women Network
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Muhaned Alaa Alhassani
>
> Affiliations: The Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Mustafa Alaidaros
>
> Affiliations: Brodmann10
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Ahmed Salah
>
> Affiliations: Supreme Commission for Hajj and Umrah
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Ahmed Al-Musawi
>
> Affiliations: Iraqi Media Network
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Ali Khaleel Ismael
>
> Affiliations: Iraqi Media Network
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Ahmed Fareed
>
> Affiliations: Iraqi Ministry of Defence
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Abdalghany Al-Hassani
>
> Affiliations: Grofin
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Tamara Nouri
>
> Affiliations: Support Her
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Hisham Alaqrawi
>
> Affiliations: Internews
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Mustafa Sirri
>
> Affiliations: GIZ
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Jood Khaldoon Al-Sammraa
>
> Affiliations: Tech4Peace
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Abdulrhman Saeed Hameed
>
> Affiliations: Iraqi Media Network
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Mohammed Salim Fadel
>
> Affiliations: Iraqi Ministry of Health
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Haider ALATTRAQCHI
>
> Affiliations: Turkish Airlines
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Ahmed Abd Almunim
>
> Affiliations: Federal Commission of Integrity
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Zahraa Basheer Kamil
>
> Affiliations: Ministry of Electricity/Kahlaa Power Plant
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Rana Mansoor Mohammed
>
> Affiliations: Dar Alaman
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Shamil Zamil Alobaidy
>
> Affiliations: Climate line organization for sustainable development
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Mustafa Khalil
>
> Affiliations: Accountant
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Ali Mahmood Alaani
>
> Affiliations: Nidal Association for Human Rights
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Nabba Ammar
>
> Affiliations: Ministry of Health
>
>
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Kawthar Abd Albaqi Almohammedi
>
> Affiliations: Soqya Foundation
>
>
>
>    1. Name: Karrar Shaloom
>
> Affiliations: Amara Combined Cycle Power Plant
>
>
>
> *F. **List of supporters and partner organizations*
>
>
>
> 1- Technology Organization for Peace (Tech4Peace) | Civil Society
> Organization
>
> Email address: info at t4p.co
>
> Role: Tech4Peace acts as a key promoter and advocate for the ISOC chapter,
> leveraging its extensive social media reach of over 2.4 million followers
> to introduce the chapter to partner organizations and amplify its
> initiatives. Through strategic collaboration, Tech4Peace enhances
> visibility, advocates for digital rights, and fosters universal internet
> access.
>
>
>
> 2- Digital Media Center (DMC)  | Civil Society Organization
>
> Email address: info at dmc-iq.com
>
> Role: The Digital Media Center (DMC) serves as a vital conduit for the
> ISOC chapter in establishing and strengthening connections with government
> institutions. Leveraging their robust communication channels, the DMC
> facilitates introductions and collaborations, enhancing the ISOC chapter's
> engagement with governmental bodies. This strategic partnership with the
> DMC opens avenues for effective communication and collaboration between the
> ISOC chapter and key government stakeholders, fostering support and
> cooperation in shared initiatives.
>
>
>
> 3- Support Her NGO in Iraq | Civil Society Organization
>
> Email address: tamara.amir87 at gmail.com
>
> Role: Support Her NGO is instrumental in aiding the ISOC chapter's
> outreach to females in Iraq. With a focus on empowering women, the NGO
> facilitates connections and introduces the ISOC chapter to female
> communities. Leveraging their network and expertise, Support Her NGO
> ensures that the ISOC chapter's initiatives effectively resonate with
> women, fostering targeted engagement and support for females using the
> internet in Iraq.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> *G. Membership*
>
>
>
> The ISOC Chapter Iraq plans to engage and communicate with its members
> through a multifaceted strategy. Leveraging digital platforms such as
> social media and a dedicated website, the Chapter aims to share updates,
> resources, and host interactive discussions. Community outreach
> initiatives, including awareness campaigns and event participation, will be
> conducted to attract a diverse membership base. Regular webinars,
> workshops, and membership drives will provide valuable content and
> incentives for participation. A structured volunteer program, networking
> events, and mentorship programs aim to cultivate an active and connected
> community. Surveys and feedback mechanisms will ensure the Chapter adapts
> to evolving member needs, and recognition programs will celebrate member
> contributions. Through regular newsletters, the Chapter will keep members
> informed and engaged, fostering a dynamic and inclusive community of
> contributors.
>
> The following objectives and approaches will be followed:
>
> *1. Digital Platforms:*
>
>    - *Objective:* Leverage online platforms for efficient communication
>    and engagement.
>    - *Approach:* Utilize social media channels, a dedicated website, and
>    other online forums to share updates, resources, and upcoming events.
>    Foster an interactive online community through discussions, polls, and Q&A
>    sessions.
>
> *2. Membership Drives:*
>
>    - *Objective:* Periodically attract new members through targeted
>    campaigns.
>    - *Approach:* Launch membership drives with incentives, such as
>    exclusive resources, early access to events, or special recognition for
>    active members. Highlight the benefits of joining the Chapter to encourage
>    participation. To facilitate this, we will open a Google form for new
>    members to register. Every Monday, we will send a welcome email to new
>    members, providing insights into our mission and vision, sharing the latest
>    newsletter (when available), and offering information about the Internet
>    Society's broader objectives. This regular communication ensures our
>    volunteers feel engaged and informed about the impact of their
>    contributions.
>
>
>
> *3. Volunteer Programs:*
>
>    - *Objective:* Cultivate a pool of volunteers to contribute talent and
>    leadership.
>    - *Approach:* Establish a structured volunteer program where members
>    can actively contribute to Chapter initiatives.
>
> *4. Surveys and Feedback Mechanisms:*
>
>    - *Objective:* Understand member needs and preferences.
>    - *Approach:* Regularly conduct surveys and seek feedback to gauge
>    member satisfaction, identify areas for improvement, and tailor Chapter
>    activities to meet the evolving needs of the community.
>
> *5. Regular Newsletters:*
>
>    - *Objective:* Keep members informed and engaged.
>    - *Approach:* Send out regular newsletters with updates on Chapter
>    activities, industry news, and relevant resources. Encourage members to
>    share their own insights and experiences through guest articles.
>
>
>
> *H. **List of requirements*
>
>
>
> In Iraq, the establishment of a chapter for organizations like the
> Internet Society entails navigating a complex process involving compliance
> with various rules and regulations. This process may necessitate the
> submission of authenticated documentation, financial reports, and
> tax-related information to the relevant authorities in both Iraq and the
> country where the parent organization is headquartered. For example,
> authentication may be required from the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs
> and the Iraqi Embassy in the host country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
> in Iraq could also play a pivotal role in this procedure. Considering the
> intricate steps and potential challenges, an alternative and more practical
> approach might involve registering a new organization with a distinct name,
> such as (Al-Reada Wal-Izdehar Organization for Sustainable Development) | منظمة
> الريادة والازدهار للتنمية المستدامة, as the complexities associated with
> establishing a chapter in Iraq and stating within the papers presented to
> the authorities and its direct affiliation with a parent international
> organization present significant challenges.
>
> Meanwhile, registration of a new NGO in Iraq would require the following:
>
>    1. Proposal of (5) names for the organization as a minimum. (The fewer
>    names, the better and faster the process, as the vetting process for more
>    names takes a very long time)
>    2. Elections for the board members, endorsed by an Iraqi lawyer.
>    3. Internal regulations for the organization. (Bylaws)
>    4. A format for the organization containing its name and logo.
>    5. Administrative procedures and approvals from government
>    authorities; the registration process, if expedited, still takes a full
>    year.
>    6. Costs include (rent for the organization's office, legal fees, a
>    deposit to open a bank account, and venue rental for holding elections with
>    coffee breaks).
>
>
>
> *I. Additional information*
>
>
>
> The ISOC Chapter Iraq, driven by a commitment to advancing digital
> literacy and promoting an open, secure, and inclusive Internet, aims to
> address critical aspects such as online safety, digital rights, and the
> benefits of an open Internet. Leveraging its diverse and multistakeholder
> core organizing team, the Chapter seeks to conduct impactful events,
> including educational workshops and awareness campaigns, to empower the
> Iraqi community in navigating the digital landscape. The proposed
> initiatives align closely with the Internet Society's global objectives,
> emphasizing the local context and needs specific to Iraq. The Chapter is
> dedicated to fostering collaboration with key stakeholders, government
> entities, and local communities to ensure a comprehensive approach that
> positively influences Internet governance, digital policy, and the overall
> well-being of users in Iraq. The establishment of the ISOC Chapter Iraq
> provides a strategic platform to amplify the voice of the Iraqi Internet
> community and contribute to the broader global discourse on
> Internet-related issues.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> As an Internet Society Chapter Officer you are automatically subscribed
> to this list, which is regularly synchronized with the Internet Society
> Chapter Portal (AMS):
> https://admin.internetsociety.org/622619/User/Login
> View the Internet Society Code of Conduct:
> https://www.internetsociety.org/become-a-member/code-of-conduct/
>
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