President Barzani defends cultural, religious values at MEPS 2024, warns against external impositions
"There is another crucial point to consider: every nation, people, and region has its own customs and traditions, some of which are deeply connected to religion and faith," President Barzani stated.
Nov. 22, 2024
ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Speaking at the fifth Middle East Peace and Security Forum (MEPS 2024) in Duhok, President Masoud Barzani delivered a strong message about cultural sovereignty and religious freedom, emphasizing the importance of respecting local values and traditions.
"There is another crucial point to consider: every nation, people, and region has its own customs and traditions, some of which are deeply connected to religion and faith," Barzani stated. "It is unacceptable for outsiders to attempt to impose their own values on others, claiming what is acceptable to them must be forced upon different societies."
The President highlighted the religious character of the region: "The people of Kurdistan, Iraq, and the Middle East are religious - whether Muslim, Christian, or followers of other faiths. It's inappropriate to assume that what is acceptable in one society should be implemented here."
Making a firm stand on cultural sovereignty, Barzani declared, "We must respect each other's sensitivities. Speaking for ourselves, we are not willing to abandon our religion, faith, and traditions merely to satisfy others' expectations."
This statement comes at a time of increasing global debates about cultural values and modernization. The Kurdistan Region, while embracing development and progress, has consistently maintained the importance of preserving its cultural and religious identity. President Barzani's remarks reflect a broader regional concern about external pressure to adopt social and cultural practices that may conflict with local traditions and religious values, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and understanding in international relations.