Compliance of Armed Forces with International Humanitarian Law
May 2nd, 2016 by MERI
This initiative is aimed at raising awareness of the norms and principles of IHL at all levels of Peshmerga forces; developing comprehensive mechanisms and policy recommendations that support compliance with IHL; and demonstrating the Peshmerga’s commitment to protecting fundamental human rights during times of war.
The Future of Tourism in Iraqi Kurdistan: Opportunities and Challenges
April 25th, 2016 by James Rasaiah
An assessment of growth since 2007 highlights a number of shortcomings in KRG strategy that have harmed efforts to promote tourism beyond budgetary and security issues.
Should Kurdistan establish a Basic Health Services Package?
April 14th, 2016 by Goran Zangana
Kurdistan region of Iraq is experiencing significant political, economic and social challenges. It became fragile in a short period of time. In these circumstances, a Basic Health Services Package is an appropriate first step to provide essential health services.
Media, Women and Honour: Cyber Violence Against Women in Iraqi Kurdistan
March 24th, 2016 by Dr. Nazand Begikhani
The new information and communication technology has provided space for the reproduction of structural violence, cultural norms and patriarchal mode of interaction leading to honour-related violence.
Turkey and its Kurdish Issue: The European Union Factor
March 7th, 2016 by Athanasios Manis
The EU member states should be concerned that the exacerbation of the Kurdish issue can potentially not only destabilise Turkey further, but also feed into other crises that have been taking place at the same time in Iraq and Syria, and have catastrophic effects on the refugee crisis – a major worry for EU decision-makers.
Chasing Chimeras in Syria: Turkey’s PYD Gamble
February 17th, 2016 by Athanasios Manis
“The AKP government has been advocating and pursuing the removal of Assad, the defeat of ISIS and the isolation and weakening of the PYD. These three strategic aims are in full contradiction to one another if one considers the realities on the ground. These parallel objectives highlight how Turkey has avoided systematic prioritisation.”
Sharing Visions for the Future of the Middle East
February 17th, 2016 by MERI
In convening such high-level panels and making room for the participation of diplomats, government officials, civil society representatives, and media, the MERI Forum 2015 fostered greater debate and, more importantly, action on these issues.
Pathways to Resilience for Syrian Refugees Living in Camps in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq
January 31st, 2016 by MERI
A feasibility assessment on how to transform the refugee camps and the neighbouring towns into resilient communities, as part of a new longer term approach to the Syrian refugee crisis.
America Needs a Stable and Democratic KRG as a Partner
January 25th, 2016 by Linda Fawaz
The United States needs to preserve its goodwill and reputation in Kurdistan by remaining neutral in its internal disputes, but also engaging constructively as a close ally.
Addressing the Structural Weaknesses of Kurdistan Region’s Economy
January 20th, 2016 by MERI
An analysis of the major gaps in Kurdistan’s economic development and potential ways forward in terms of reinforcing initiatives aimed at private sector development; improving the functioning of the State and its budget; and transforming Kurdistan’s institutional landscape linked to the economy.