Following decades of conflict and violent extremism, it is crucial to support the social fabric of communities in Iraq. UNDP’s integrated strategy on PVE and sustaining social cohesion in Iraq includes continuous assistance to the National Committee through capacity development for sub-committees of various governorates on implementing the National Strategy to Prevent Violent Extremism, as well as the establishment of interfaith religious leader networks across Iraqi governorates. 

UNDP adopted a multi-faceted, gender-sensitive approach, since most returnees perceived as having been affiliated with ISIL are women and children. In 2022, UNDP Iraq and the National Committee on the Implementation of the Strategy to Prevent Violent Extremism held a high-level dialogue including religious members from various faiths, aiming at establishing a network of religious leaders whose key focus is to promote moderate religious discourse and increase awareness and support to community initiatives on the Prevention of Violent Extremism. 

UNDP also held a series of 5 conferences targeting governorates liberated from ISIL, where key religious sects including Sunni and Shia Muslims, Christians, Sabean-Mandaeans, Kakais, and Baha'is agreed to support community readiness for reintegration of displaced families and to work together to prevent the spread of violent extremism.