Kurdistan Chronicle Issue 20 explores democracy, climate initiatives, and unseen heritage
From in-depth election coverage to insights on new environmental projects, this issue highlights the Kurdistan Region’s resilience and ingenuity.
Nov. 15, 2024
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Issue 20 of Kurdistan Chronicle provides a comprehensive look at Kurdistan’s ongoing political evolution, environmental efforts, and the region’s profound cultural tapestry.
From in-depth election coverage to insights on new environmental projects, this issue highlights the Kurdistan Region’s resilience and ingenuity.
Democracy in Action: Election 2024
The cover story delves into the October 2024 parliamentary elections, a milestone in Kurdistan's democratic journey.
With 72% voter turnout, this crucial election saw the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) secure 39 seats, maintaining its political dominance, followed by the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and a surprising rise of the New Generation party.
The report examines the electoral process, international observers' positive reactions, and technical challenges, such as fingerprint registration malfunctions, which generated complaints from political parties.
The piece also explores Kurdistan’s history of elections, tracing back to the first regional vote in 1992 and analyzing the shifts and continuities in the political landscape.
International diplomatic reactions emphasize the significance of Kurdistan’s commitment to democratic legitimacy, with messages from the UK Consulate and the UN Secretary General.
Climate Change and Sustainability Initiatives
Environmental sustainability is a major theme, with Prime Minister Masrour Barzani's government pushing forward climate initiatives.
The editorial discusses the KRG's participation in COP29 in Baku and plans for climate mitigation, including rooftop solar power projects, dam water conservation, and reforestation.
Significant projects include the Million Oaks initiative in Erbil and a sapling production boost in Sulaimani, supported by the World Food Program.
With 27% of Kurdistan's electricity now sourced from renewables and plans to reach 31% within two years, the magazine emphasizes the KRG's commitment to a green future, though challenges remain, such as securing international climate financing.
Relevant Sections:
A Looming Crisis – Written by Sherko Sharif
Commitment to a Cleaner Environment
Soran University Inaugurates Climate Change Research Center
Constructing New Dams: The Lifeblood of Tomorrow – Written by Marewan Hawramy
Launching First Asphalt Recycling Plant
Pioneering Hydroponics in Erbil – Written by Basil al-Khatib
Cultural Heritage: Prophet Nahum’s Shrine and the Chaldean Cultural Renaissance
The issue features a compelling piece on the shrine of Prophet Nahum in Alqosh, a testament to Kurdistan's religious coexistence.
Restored in 2020 with help from the U.S. Consulate, this historical site symbolizes peace among Muslims, Christians, and Jews.
Interviews with local officials underscore the shrine’s significance for religious tourism, which remains hindered by restrictive Iraqi laws.
Additionally, the magazine profiles the Chaldean Cultural Center in Michigan, which has launched a sister-city partnership with Ankawa, Erbil.
This collaboration aims to foster cultural and economic exchanges, reflecting the deep ties between Chaldean communities in the United States and Kurdistan.
Other relevant sections:
An Overlooked History – Written by Miran Abraham
Adorning Jewelry with a Touch of Kurdish Culture – Written by Goran Shakhawan
Health and Society: A Focus on Mental Well-Being
A groundbreaking initiative covered in Kurdistan Chronicle involves the Oxford Cognitive Therapy Center (OCTC) training Kurdish therapists in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
This pioneering mental health project addresses trauma among Kurds, with adaptations for the region’s collectivist culture and gender-specific challenges. Dr. Ava Doski, a key figure in this project, emphasizes the urgent need to break the cycle of generational trauma and improve societal well-being.
Agriculture in Kurdistan:
Kurdistan’s First Major Non-Oil Export
Oak Trees in Kurdistan – Written by Yassin Ahmed Rashid
From Farm to Frok – Written by Peshraw Mahdi
Savoring the Taste of Rashmiri Grapes
Halabja’s Booming Olive Industry – Written by Omar Aziz
Other noticeable sections are:
‘Little Kurdistan’ in Napa Valley
Pishdar: Kurdistan’s Mightiest Dog Breed
Kurdistan Chronicle Issue 20 offers a diverse anthology of reports that showcase the region’s challenges and triumphs.
From political developments and environmental initiatives to cultural preservation and youth aspirations, this issue captures the pulse of Kurdistan, celebrating its progress while acknowledging the hurdles ahead.
