The Kurds of northern Iraq faced discrimination, terror and death under the regime of Saddam Hussein. As the security situation deteriorated in southern and central Iraq since the U.S.-led invasion in 2003, thousands of displaced persons have fled to the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) controlled area in the north. Recently, northern border villages have been the site of military attacks by Turkey and Iran.

CPT's delegation will be based in Suleimaniyah, in the KRG. Delgates will meet with representatives of non-governmental organizations and human rights groups, displaced persons, and government officials. They will gain a perspective on the challenges facing people in northern Iraq and the impact there of violence in other areas of Iraq and along the broder. The delegation will participate in the work of CPT's longer-term project of building bridges and human rights reporting.

Click here to apply. APPLY BY SEPTEMBER 20.

CPT has had a presence in Iraq since October 2002, first in Baghdad and since November 2006 in the Kurdish north.

FUNDRAISING EXPECTATION: $3500 (US or Cdn), which includes round-trip airfare. Those wishing to travel from other than the U.S. or Canada, contact delegation coordinator for details.