Baghdad: Mayor Ammar Musa Kadhim announced that the Arab Towns Organization has approved Iraq’s initiative to promote a culture of volunteer work. The initiative, titled “Volunteer Work and Community Participation – The Iraqi Experience,” will see Baghdad as the focal point for encouraging volunteerism and enhancing community participation in Arab cities.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Mayor Kadhim was involved in the 64th Executive Council meeting and the 20th General Conference of the Arab Towns Organization, held in Salalah, Dhofar Governorate, Sultanate of Oman. The meetings, which took place from September 7-8, 2026, were themed “More Innovative and Sustainable Cities.”

The Baghdad Municipality’s statement highlighted that the Executive Council meeting addressed various administrative, financial, institutional, and media matters within the organization. It also reviewed issues and programs aimed at the development of Arab cities and strengthening cooperation among them.

During these meetings, the Baghdad Municipality introduced its unique Iraqi-Arab initiative, emphasizing volunteerism and community engagement. The proposal, which positions Baghdad as the launchpad, was met with approval from the secretaries and heads of Arab capitals and cities in the organization. Baghdad will spearhead the initiative across the Arab world for one year, involving multiple Arab cities and countries affiliated with the Arab Towns Organization.

The agreement marks a significant step towards creating an Arab framework for volunteer work and community participation, with Baghdad and its municipality at the forefront, under the auspices of the Arab Towns Organization.