Success Story: USAID Helps Strengthen Local Governance in Babil
USAID, in collaboration with the Babil PRT, hosts events to bolster participation in local government and acknowledge efforts of Babil Provincial Council
April, 2007
Babil Provincial Council members stand at attention during a patriotic Iraqi song.
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The Babil PRT team leader, Chuck Hunter, presents certificates to PC members.
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Working in coordination with the Babil Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT), the USAID Local Governance Program recently sponsored two events in Al-Hillah demonstrating the province's commitment to encouraging civic involvement and to bolstering local governance.
In February, USAID organized a conference on "Strengthening Public Participation in Babil Local Government." More than 250 attendees, including Provincial Council members, representatives from civil society and non-governmental organizations, members of community action groups, university professors, and council members from districts and sub-districts, partici-pated.
Babil Provincial Council members delivered presentations on the structure of local government, its authority within the existing framework, and current areas of focus for the Provincial Council. They encouraged Iraqis to become more involved in civic matters and contribute to the rebuilding of the country. Following the presentations, attendees participated in working groups to develop recommendations on how to improve public participation in local government.
In March, USAID and the Babil PRT held a ceremony honoring the efforts of the Babil Provincial Council to acquire the skills and expertise necessary to manage essential governance func-tions and duties. Provincial Council members were lauded for their mastery of councilor duties, particularly with regard to parliamentary systems and procedures, and their management of reconstruction funds according to Ministry of Finance guidelines.
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