Introduction to the Center for Federalism Studies (CFFS)

The Center for Federalism Studies (CFFS) at the University of Duhok (UOD) serves as a hub for academic research, policy analysis, and dialogue on federalism, with a particular focus on its application within Iraq’s political system. Established to contribute to scholarly and policy-oriented discussions, CFFS examines federal governance structures, decentralization, and intergovernmental relations in Iraq and beyond.

As a comparative research center, CFFS explores federalism's role in governance, legal frameworks, and conflict resolution, drawing insights from global federal models. With the Kurdistan Region of Iraq functioning as a federal entity since 2003—having its own political structure and regional government—the center provides a critical platform for studying the evolution, challenges, and opportunities within this system.

Federalism is a key political issue worldwide, shaping governance in diverse regions. With over 40% of the global population living under federal arrangements, CFFS engages in interdisciplinary research to understand how power-sharing mechanisms influence political stability, economic development, and institutional effectiveness. The center actively collaborates with scholars, policymakers, and institutions to generate informed discussions and contribute to the ongoing discourse on federal governance in Iraq and beyond.

Through research, publications, policy briefs, and capacity-building programs, CFFS aims to foster academic excellence, inform decision-making, and promote a deeper understanding of federalism as a dynamic and evolving system of governance.