On November 9, 2024, the Rudaw Research Center participated in the second meeting of directors of research centers across Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. The event, organized by the Anki Institute for Research in Baghdad, was attended by prominent figures, including Ammar al-Hakim, leader of the al-Hikmah Movement.
The Rudaw Research Center was one of 25 research centers that participated in the meeting. The discussions covered several key topics: the first focused on the challenges facing research centers in Iraq and potential solutions; the second addressed enhancing the role of research centers; and the third explored the dynamics of fostering continuous collaboration among these centers.
In the second part of the meeting, Ammar al-Hakim, leader of the Hikmah Movement, expressed his satisfaction with the participation of research center officials. He stated, "These centers must coordinate effectively to fulfill their role, assisting decision-makers by providing clarity. Research centers play a crucial role in completing the structure of the Iraqi state."
Al-Hakim emphasized that Iraq has entered a new phase of stability after enduring numerous challenges and highlighted the importance of distinguishing civil society organizations from research centers. He added, "There is no issue with a research center supporting any party, whether through research or scientific data. Impartiality is not the priority; what matters is that these centers serve all decision-makers without bias. If research centers can effectively fulfill this role, decision-makers and politicians will naturally turn to them for guidance."
At the end of the meeting, participants emphasized the importance of continuing these gatherings and strengthening relationships between research centers across Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region.