The Levant and Iraq Forum
(LIF)
The Levant and Iraq have long stood as the cradle of civilisation, enriched by deep-rooted diversity and a shared cultural heritage. Yet today, the region faces deep fragmentation, protracted conflicts, fragile states, and economic underdevelopment. To move forward, a shift from reactive policies to a collaborative, forward-looking vision is essential.
The Levant and Iraq Forum (LIF), launched on 30 October 2024 during the MERI Forum in Erbil, is a timely response to this need. Formed by a consortium of regional think tanks, LIF seeks to foster cooperation, shape policy, and build regional resilience through shared research and dialogue.
As a growing network of think tanks and policy institutions, LIF connects policymakers, researchers, civil society, and international partners. It promotes evidence-based policymaking, inclusive strategies, and cross-border collaboration.
LIF’s mission is to empower communities, strengthen regional integration, and promote peaceful coexistence by identifying shared values and addressing common challenges. With rotating leadership and national coordinators, it operates on principles of autonomy and solidarity. Through annual forums and digital platforms, LIF amplifies collective impact and deepens regional cooperation.
The Forum held its first post-launch conference in Amman on 2 June 2025. Think tank leaders, policy experts, and several European partners participated in shaping this long-term, knowledge-driven platform aimed at addressing shared regional challenges. The LIF Amman conference concluded by calling for regional agency rooted in evidence-based dialogue, inclusive governance, and a new architecture of cooperation led by local actors. A set of policy recommendations were proposed to national, regional and international stakeholders. The proceedings of the Amman conference and LIF report are now available.
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