Recent Events
KRG Guest Speaker
Today’s Middle East is constantly in flux, and even the most recent articles may not represent the situation on the ground. There is no substitute for speaking with individuals from the region, and learning about events from those most affected. Fortunately for students in SIS-511: Kurds and Their Neighbors, class on February 28th featured a guest lecture from Karwan Zebari, Director of Congressional and Academic Affairs for the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Representation to the United States.
Mr. Zebari’s talk covered diverse topics, from the origins of Kurdish nationalism, to the KRG’s trade relations with Turkey, to the impact of the current conflict in Syria. After his prepared remarks, he opened himself up to questions from the class, which became a lively discussion. Students asked for clarification on oil and trade issues, but also pressed Mr. Zebari on difficult topics surrounding relations with Iran, terrorism, and Erbil’s fracturing relationship with Baghdad. Throughout, Mr. Zebari’s remarks were passionate but honest- he was frank and open in discussing the KRG’s struggles and flaws, but made it clear that positive progress is being made.
Dr. Alaa Abdel-Moneim and the students of SIS-511 all extend their gratitude to Mr. Zebari for taking time to speak with the class. We are honored to enjoy such good relations with the KRG office,and look forward to continuing this relationship.
Halabja Film Screening
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Halabja Genocide in Iraqi Kurdistan. To commemorate this event, and to spread awareness for those touched by this tragedy, on March 25 th CPD hosted a screening of Jiyan, the critically acclaimed film depicting the strength and resilience of the Halabja survivors. In collaboration with Kurdish Human Rights Watch and the Kurdistan Regional Government, the screening was followed by a question and answer session with KHRW Director Pary Karadaghi and KRG director of Congressional and Academic Affairs Karwan Zebari, moderated by AU’s own Mohamed Alaa Abdel-Moneim. Thanks to all who attended, and be sure to keep an eye out for future events!
KRG Guest Speaker
Today’s Middle East is constantly in flux, and even the most recent articles may not represent the situation on the ground. There is no substitute for speaking with individuals from the region, and learning about events from those most affected. Fortunately for students in SIS-511: Kurds and Their Neighbors, class on February 28th featured a guest lecture from Karwan Zebari, Director of Congressional and Academic Affairs for the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Representation to the United States.Halabja Film Screening
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Halabja Genocide in Iraqi Kurdistan. To commemorate this event, and to spread awareness for those touched by this tragedy, on March 25 th CPD hosted a screening of Jiyan, the critically acclaimed film depicting the strength and resilience of the Halabja survivors. In collaboration with Kurdish Human Rights Watch and the Kurdistan Regional Government, the screening was followed by a question and answer session with KHRW Director Pary Karadaghi and KRG director of Congressional and Academic Affairs Karwan Zebari, moderated by AU’s own Mohamed Alaa Abdel-Moneim. Thanks to all who attended, and be sure to keep an eye out for future events!