Kirkuk: The Kirkuk Center for Dialogue and Strategic Studies recently organized a seminar titled “Provincial Councils: Between the Constitutional Text and the Proposal to Freeze Them.” A diverse group of governmental, political, academic, and administrative figures, along with current and former members of parliament and the Kirkuk Provincial Council, attended the event.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the seminar was led by Hassan Turan, head of the center, who highlighted the significance of the topic to Kirkuk Governorate. He pointed out the constitutional, legal, administrative, and service-related aspects of provincial councils’ work, as well as their impact on the future of local governance in the region.

The seminar featured in-depth discussions on several critical areas, including the legislative process, the role of provincial councils in local governance, the challenges they face, and the need to preserve and enhance their performance. Participants emphasized the importance of oversight and monitoring service delivery to improve the efficiency of local institutions in meeting citizens’ needs.

Additionally, the dialogue covered the need for stability in Kirkuk Governorate and the importance of fostering dialogue and understanding among its communities. This approach is seen as essential for promoting joint administration and enhancing the partnership in managing the governorate’s affairs, while respecting constitutional and legal frameworks.

A significant part of the seminar focused on the debate over the proposal to freeze provincial councils and its potential effects on administrative decentralization and local oversight. Participants stressed the importance of addressing performance shortcomings through institutional reform and development, rather than suspension.