Anglo-Iraqi Studies Centre (AISC)
The Anglo-Iraqi Studies Centre (AISC) is a distinguished academic and community initiative based in London, serving as a pivotal resource for Anglo-Iraqi studies. The centre is committed to collecting, presenting, and reviewing English-language material on Iraq from the past two centuries (1800–2000).
AISC acts as a hub of knowledge in London, fostering stronger connections between Iraqi and British communities through a range of cultural events, knowledge-sharing sessions, outreach programmes, academic workshops, and collaborations with scholars from Iraq and the UK.
Our Mission
The Anglo-Iraqi Studies Centre aims to play a key role in enhancing public awareness and academic discourse regarding Iraq and its historical ties with the UK. By working with academics, public figures, and cultural institutions, the centre seeks to:
- Advance knowledge and understanding of Anglo-Iraqi history and relations.
- Support the Iraqi-British community in rediscovering their cultural and historical identities.
- Encourage positive integration of Iraqis into British society through education and cultural engagement.
Resources & Collections
The AISC website provides extensive resources, including:
- A curated bibliography of key English-language books about Iraq.
- Full-text access to selected historical publications.
- A photographic archive documenting Iraq’s history.
- A catalogue of AISC publications authored by staff and volunteers.
- Video links to past events, lectures, and discussions hosted by AISC.
The AISC Library
Our specialist library houses a growing collection of over 2,000 books, periodicals and magazines related to Iraq, with an ongoing mission to expand the collection to include as many English-language publications on Iraq as possible. Most of these resources are available to visitors and online viewers.
Community & Educational Engagement
Through cultural events, academic presentations, workshops, and outreach initiatives, AISC is dedicated to:
- Educating the wider public about Iraq’s history, culture, and literature.
- Promoting Iraqi-British heritage and fostering a deeper appreciation of shared historical connections.
- Supporting the integration of Iraqi-British citizens within UK society through education and cultural dialogue.
Our Organisation & Leadership
The Anglo-Iraqi Studies Centre is an initiative established within the Anglo-Iraqi Dialogue Foundation, a registered UK charity (Charity No: 1154526) and UK company (Company No: 8323352).
The project is led by Dr Nadeem Al-Abdalla, who holds a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in the field of education from the University of Plymouth, England. Dr Al-Abdalla specialises in Iraqi-British cultural studies, and he also holds a BA (Bachelor of Arts) in English Language and an MA (Master of Arts) in the Politics of Education from the University of Plymouth. With the support of fellow researchers and an advisory panel of academics, cultural experts, and political analysts, Dr Al-Abdalla oversees the development and expansion of AISC’s mission.