Dear all,
this message was written for us by the ISF organizing committee on July 29. We discussed it today during the chat, you'll read more when I compile the minutes. Anyway our Iraqi friends really expect a significant international delegation. I invite you all to register asap through this form http://www.iraqicivilsociety.org/registration-form-iraqi-social-forum-2013
after reading the ISF message which follows.
Best
Martina

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Dear friends
In the beginning, we would like to thank you and appreciate you for the support you are giving us. Your support is highly appreciated to engage and interact with civil society in Iraq. We are pleased to incorporate with you to hold the Iraqi first social forum to be a playground for dialogue and exchange of ideas and experience. This forum will engage all the spectrums of Iraqi people.
 
Dear friends, it is obvious that the deterioration of security led to the murdering of tens of civilians and security forces. This situation was reflected in your position from participation in the forum activities at the end of September 2013. The organizing committee in Baghdad was kind of disappointed about your decision.  We are here would like to affirm that the situation here is not as terrifying as it seems in news. Life is going on here actively and naturally.
 
The holding of the Iraqi forum and the international and national participation has a positive impact on the crisis in this country. The holding of this forum is a great support to the activities of the civil society in Iraq. That is seeking to have a pioneering role to solve the urgent problems in Iraq. This forum gives a great addition to stand against the political conflict that is taking place in Iraq. This current political tension has affected negatively the security, living condition for most of Iraqi people. Therefore, in order for us to have a great rile to organize varies issues in our country and amend the general policies of the state, we invite you to participate in this forum. Additionally, organizing activities along the days of the forum. In order to convey the hope and aspiration of all Iraqis, and to see the dedication and love of Iraqis for life. In the meantime, we found the place for holding the forum and did coordinate with the local facilities to facilitate the process of holding it.

Once again, we thank you and wish you come to Baghdad, the land of peace, and for a better Iraq.

Preparatory Committee for the Iraqi Social Forum
Baghdad, July 29, 2013