Latest news with #LalishCulturalCenter
Shafaq News
12-05-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
On Lalish Anniversary: President Barzani stands strong with Yazidis
Shafaq News/ Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani extended his congratulations on Monday to the Yazidi community on the 32nd anniversary of the establishment of the Lalish Cultural Center. In a statement, Barzani expressed appreciation for the center's achievements and services over the years, and its contributions to Kurdish and Yazidi cultural heritage. Barzani reaffirmed his full and ongoing support for the center's activities, describing it as 'a pure spring feeding into the river of Kurdish culture.' He also reiterated his commitment to supporting all components of Kurdistan, regardless of religion or ethnicity, emphasizing that 'Kurdistan will remain a homeland for all, and I will always stand in support of their rights. Our region will continue to be a place of diversity, mutual acceptance, and peaceful coexistence.' In turn, PM Masrour Barzani praised the center for its 'key role in promoting coexistence and fostering unity among Kurdistan's diverse communities.' Founded in 1993 near the Lalish temple in Shekhan—an area considered central to Yazidi religious heritage—the Lalish Center has played a key role in supporting the preservation of Yazidi traditions, rituals, and cultural expression. In addition to its cultural activities, the center functions as a venue for academic, artistic, and community engagement, attracting visitors and researchers from both the region and abroad.
Iraqi News
30-04-2025
- Politics
- Iraqi News
First International Yazidi Conference opens in Duhok
Duhok ( – The first International Scientific Conference on Yazidis commenced in Duhok governorate today, Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Titled 'Religion, Culture, History, and Geography,' the two-day event brings together 105 researchers from 11 countries to highlight Yazidi identity, document their suffering, and correct misconceptions. However, proceedings included sharp criticism of the Iraqi government. In a seminar, Yazidi Member of Parliament Vian Dakhil decried 'continued government negligence,' stating the Yazidi cause lacks priority. She emphasized that thousands displaced from Sinjar since 2014 remain in difficult conditions in Kurdistan Region camps without lasting solutions. Dakhil demanded Baghdad implement the Sinjar Agreement with Erbil, or at minimum, facilitate IDP returns, rebuild infrastructure, and ensure security in Sinjar, arguing official inaction perpetuates Yazidi marginalization. Karwan Ajeeb of the Lalish Cultural Center confirmed the conference features seminars on Yazidi challenges, aiming to define their unique culture and counter misinformation. The event serves as both an academic platform and a spotlight on urgent humanitarian and political issues facing the community.
