Rethinking Sustainability in Iraqi Civil Society
As international funding declines and donor priorities shift, Iraqi civil society organizations are facing growing challenges related to financial resilience, institutional continuity, legal frameworks, and local ownership.
This report brings together the main reflections emerging from the ICSSI Funding and Sustainability Dialogue Series, held between April and June 2026. Through six thematic discussions, Iraqi civil society organizations, experts, and practitioners explored alternative funding pathways, taxation and social security, private-sector engagement, inclusive leadership, institutional governance, and localization.
The report highlights that sustainability is not simply about replacing lost funding. It requires stronger institutions, diversified resources, community trust, ethical partnerships, inclusive participation, and greater decision-making power for local organizations.
Author: Needar Saeed Khaleel
Coordinator of the ICSSI Funding and Sustainability Thematic Group
Published by: Iraqi Civil Society Solidarity Initiative – ICSSI
Publication date: June 2026