CPHS Lecture Series: Unveiling the Middle East Paradox – The American University of Kurdistan

The American University of Kurdistan’s Center for Peace and Human Security (CPHS) hosted its April Lecture Series, on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, featuring Dr. Fereydoon Rahmani, an associate professor at Toronto’s York University and a visiting adjunct professor of international studies at AUK. The lecture series provides a valuable space for scholars, experts, and students to explore critical issues and contribute to the pursuit of knowledge across the discipline.

Dr. Rahmani’s lecture centered on his book titled “Rooftop Societies: The Middle East Paradox,” which sheds light on the historical significance of rooftops and the societal dynamics shaped by state-society relations. He stated, “Why call the Middle East society the rooftop society you ask? Because during my life, the flat rooftop has been giving me a secondary space to live.” During his presentation, Dr. Rahmani highlighted the consequences of limited intellectual space in the Middle East and contrasted the region’s media and academic diversity with Kurdistan’s commitment to global engagement and democratic aspirations.

The event served as a platform to promote dialogue and understanding on geo-political realities across the region, aligning with the overarching theme of the month “Achieve a diverse and inclusive society”.