A Conversation with Kurdistan Regional Government’s Minister of Interior, Rebar Ahmed

In a highly anticipated event jointly organized by the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) and the American University of Kurdistan (AUK), His Excellency Rebar Ahmed, the Minister of Interior for the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in Iraq, engaged in a comprehensive discussion on the developments in the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and the broader Middle East. The event aimed to foster cooperation and understanding in promoting peace and stability in the region.

Building upon AUK’s commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration, the MEPS (Middle East Peace and Security) Forum hosted by the American University of Kurdistan serves as a platform for academics, intellectuals, and decision-makers to engage in inclusive discussions, academic research, and recommend innovative approaches on topics focused on conflict resolution, sustainability, and peace.

Hosted in Washington, D.C., the event featured esteemed guests and experts from various organizations. Mona Yukubian, the Vice President for the Middle East and North Africa at USIP, expressed gratitude for Minister Ahmed’s participation, emphasizing the longstanding partnership between USIP, the KRG, and the Iraqi people. Dr. Honar Issa, the Secretary of the Board of Trustees at AUK, highlighted the significance of fostering dialogue and collaboration among academics, intellectuals, and decision-makers for impact.

During the discussion, Minister Ahmed acknowledged the progress made since the fall of Saddam Hussein’s regime in 2003, including the acceptance and endorsement of the new constitution by a vast majority of the Iraqi people. However, he also emphasized the challenges faced in implementing the constitution, particularly with regards to disputed territories and unfulfilled promises outlined in Article 140. The Minister highlighted the pressures faced by minority communities and the lack of support for Peshmerga forces from the Iraqi Federal Government. Nonetheless, he expressed optimism about the potential of the newly formed cabinet to implement political agreements and constitutional reforms.

A significant topic of discussion revolved around the perception among many Iraqis that the current government represents the “last opportunity” for progress and reform. Minister Ahmed acknowledged this concern and stressed the importance of a collective implementation of the political agreement to avoid the collapse of the State. He emphasized the need for a shift in thinking towards decentralized decision-making given the diverse nature of Iraq’s society. The Minister expressed hope that the new Prime Minister, with support from the Kurdistan Regional Government, would act as a unifying figure for all Iraqis.

Regarding human rights and democracy, Minister Ahmed acknowledged that no region or country is perfect, but affirmed the KRG’s dedication to upholding democratic values and protecting human rights. Under the leadership of H.E. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, the KRG is committed to promoting an environment that fosters freedom of expression and ensures the protection of human rights. The Minister expressed openness to working with local and international partners to address concerns, alleviate social conflicts, and support training and capacity-building.

In terms of the integration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) into local communities, Minister Ahmed emphasized the KRG’s strategy of facilitating their voluntary and dignified return to their areas of origin. The KRG opposes the idea of integrating them elsewhere, as it could lead to demographic changes and undermine the rights of indigenous communities. The Government aims to provide security, services, and hope to IDPs, and has signed agreements with the Iraqi Federal Government to normalize such situations.

The Minister also highlighted the KRG’s commitment to gender equality and women’s inclusion in governmental institutions, parliaments, and political party leadership. While the gender quota system has played a role in ensuring representation, the KRG aspires for women to be equally represented without the need for quotas. Efforts are being made to protect women from violence and create greater employment opportunities.

Minister Ahmed addressed the security challenges faced by the Kurdistan Region, including threats from ISIS, the PKK, and militias. He emphasized the need for unified Peshmerga forces and cooperation with the Iraqi Federal Government and coalition forces. The Minister expressed gratitude for the ongoing support and assistance from the United States in tackling these security challenges.

Furthermore, climate change emerged as a significant concern for Kurdistan, and the whole of Iraq, with challenges such as floods in winter and water scarcity in summer. Minister Ahmed highlighted the importance of cooperation with neighboring countries to address issues like water resource management.

The event provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and the broader Middle East. Through open dialogue and collaborative efforts, the KRG aims to promote peace, stability, and prosperity for all.