EPIC was founded in 1998 by veterans of the Gulf War who believe that a human security approach can make Iraq safe and prosperous again. EPIC brought together veterans, Iraqis, aid workers, doctors, faith communities, and concerned Americans as a grassroots movement took hold. EPIC became a leading voice in the United States, amplifying the authentic concerns of everyday Iraqis and leading the conversation in Washington on the impact of economic sanctions and human rights violations.