EUAM Iraq facilitated a study visit of an Iraqi delegation involved in research, planning and supporting policymaking in the field of national security including prevention and countering violent extremism (P/CVE) to Spain. The study visit is part of a cooperation agreement signed in 2024 to promote joint research and policy dialogue between the Iraqi al-Nahrain Center for Strategic Studies (ANCSS) and the EURO-Arab Research Foundation (FUNDEA).

Research leads to understanding dynamics of CVE 
One of the topics discussed was countering violent extremism and how research can support effective countermeasures. Research contributes significantly to a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of CVE. There are many different types of violent extremism, and the motivations are diverse and usually relate to specific ideologies. All forms of violent extremism seek change through fear and intimidation rather than peaceful means. Research thus supports evidence-based policy, ensuring that decisions are made on the basis of the best available evidence and expertise.

Strengthening European-Arab relations through joint research and political dialogue
The heads of the ANCSS and the Department of Social Research and representative from the National Security Advisory discussed with experts in FUNDEA current and potential joint research projects, identified common research interests and explored policy solutions to common challenges. The overall objective of the visit was to promote more Iraqi-led research, that in turn supports more knowledge-based policy-formulation and implementation while at the same time strengthening national research-capacity by Iraqi researchers engaging with their counterparts in EU-based research institutes. This visit also marks a significant step in strengthening Euro-Arab relations through collaborative research and policy dialogue.