Baghdad: The Department of Public Arts, a division of the Iraqi Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities, took part in the National Forum for Soft Power Initiatives in Countering Extremism. The department was represented by Lamis Tawfiq Mahmoud, Director of the Human Resources Department, at the event organized by the National Committee for Combating Violent Extremism in partnership with the German Development Agency (GIZ).

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the forum featured a range of cultural, artistic, media, and sports initiatives designed to prevent extremism and enhance social cohesion. Attendees were presented with examples of art projects, murals, films, and short stories, and certificates of appreciation and recognition were awarded to the winners and participants.

The involvement of the Department of Public Arts highlights the significant role that visual arts can play in fostering community awareness, promoting values of moderation and tolerance, and combating extremism.