WFDY Statement on Iraq

WFDY’s statement on preventing political work in universities in Iraq

Iraq continues to face the results of the U.S. occupation, even after the withdrawal of U.S. military forces. A withdrawal, which produced political and economic occupation that linked the fate of the country to U.S. foreign policy. Even with the movements of the progressive forces who are trying to reach a democratic Iraq, who protects and preserves the rights of its youth and peoples; still the government and its presidency is committed to the decisions issued by the U.S. occupation implementing the continuation of the occupation.

A few days ago, the Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki announced the prevention of the student unions from working in universities, under the pretext of the politicization of education. However, the main reason was absent in the Prime Minister's statement; for the work of the student unions in universities builds personal and national student’s awareness and creates a generation of youth capable of improving the country.

On the other hand, the student and youth unions condemn the government decision. And work on putting pressure on the authorities to end this decision, and work on improving the conditions of the students and their participation in political life.

The World Federation of Democratic Youth supports, our member organization, the General Students Union of Iraq, and the students and youth unions who are calling to end this decision. As well as, all unfair decisions against students.

The students have the right in political activities in the universities, to be involved through that in the political life, and to improve the logistical and educational conditions of their universities. The political wok in the university builds an aware generation capable of performing the political life and taking part in the political decisions of the country. Preventing it is a repression of their national affiliation in the political life, and separating them from the possibility of improving the life conditions and political and social life.

The CC/HQ of WFDY
Budapest, 12 March, 2013