Iraq – Life Under SaddamIraq – Life Under SaddamIraq was ruled by a brutal dictator for many years named Saddam Hussein.

The Iraqi dictatorship brutalised and murdered people within their own country and denied them even basic human rights such as freedom of speech.

The Iraq WarThe Iraq War Governments

including those from the UK and the USA waged a controversial war against Saddam Hussein which led to his removal in 2003.

Post-War ChaosPost-War Chaos

• Although the dictatorship was removed, this led to a civil war which British and American forces were unable to effectively deal with.

• Many people continued to be killed during this period and democratic structures were difficult to develop both because of the previous dictatorship and because of the civil war.

Human Rights & DemocracyHuman Rights & Democracy• Although the situation has

improved in Iraq over the last two years, violent attacks are still common and basic structures including trade unions are still developing.

• The NASUWT is involved in developing trade unions in Iraq and promoting human rights. In recent years this has included visits, donations, targeted protests, contacting politicians in the UK to remind them that these problems still exist in Iraq and inviting speakers to discuss their problems.

• The NASUWT has been involved in regular training programmes with Iraqi trade unions including regular trips to the UK.

Abdullah Muhsin: Iraqi teacher trade union representative

ActivitiesActivitiesYou could:

• Use the information and photos in the presentation to produce a fact file of the key issues in Iraq.

• Use the information and photos you have researched to write a letter to your MP about the issues in Iraq.

• Use the information and photos within the presentation and on the linked websites to produce a campaigning leaflet or poster identifying why people should support a campaign for human rights in Iraq.

LinksLinks

• For further information on the NASUWT’s campaigns visit www.nasuwt.org.uk/Iraq

• To write a letter to your MP visit www.nasuwt.org.uk/ContactYourMP