AUK Hosts MEPS 2024: The Paradox of Peace in the Middle East
The American University of Kurdistan (AUK) hosted the Middle East Peace and Security (MEPS) Forum 2024, bringing together ambassadors, government officials, academics, and researchers from around the globe to discuss critical challenges facing the Middle East. The event featured workshops on November 19, followed by keynote speeches and panel discussions on November 22 and 23.
The event program was designed and implemented in partnership with the Harvard University’s MEI Initiative, Cambridge University, Crisis Response Council, Atlantic Council, and Wilton Park.
On the first day of the public Forum, welcoming remarks were delivered by H.E. Masrour Barzani, Chair of AUK’s Board of Trustees, followed by keynote speeches from H.E. President Masoud Barzani, H.E. Latif Rashid, President of Iraq, and H.E. Mahmoud al-Mashhadani, former Speaker of Iraq’s Parliament. Sessions explored themes such as peacebuilding, geoeconomics, U.S. engagement in the region, and the future of state systems in the Middle East.
The second day began with welcoming remarks by Dr. Randall Rhodes, President of AUK, and a keynote speech by H.E. Haidar al-Abadi, former Prime Minister of Iraq. Sessions focused on post-Islamic State recovery, pathways to peace, pragmatic coexistence, emerging threats, and climate security. A special conversation with H.E. Masrour Barzani was a highlight.
The Forum concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Honar Issa, Chair of MEPS, emphasizing the importance of ongoing dialogue and collaboration in addressing the region’s challenges.
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