On Tuesday 21 November 2017, Clingendael’s Conflict Research Unit will organize a public panel discussion in The Hague about how further conflict in Iraq can be avoided. Reconciling Iraq’s different ethno-sectarian groups, reconstruction the many cities that were ruined in the fight against the Islamic State and the recent Kurdish referendum all present challenges for the country that could renew the very violence it is just emerging from.

The focus of the panel discussion will be how it can be ensured that the conclusion of the fight against the Islamic State is the beginning of the end, instead of the end of the beginning?

• What are the main issues that can trigger future conflict?
• How could this impact the region and radicalization?
• What can the Netherlands do to help avoid future violence?     

Three speakers will share their perspectives on these matters, after which Monika Sie Dhian Ho (Director of Clingendael) will facilitate a broader discussion:

• Saywan Barzani – The Iraqi ambassador to The Netherlands
• Ali Al-Mawlaki – Research director of the Al-Bayan Center for Planning and Studies
• Mark Zellenrath – Deputy director of the Middle East directorate, Dutch Foreign Ministry

The full program for the day can be found here.

Practicalities

Kindly note that the event takes place at Hofweg 9e, 3^rd floor, premises of the International Development of Law Organization, The Hague. The discussion starts at 4pm (Tuesday 21 November)

Please register for this event by emailing Erwin van Veen (eveen@clingendael.org).

Resources

Iraq’s competing security forces after the battle for Mosul– Report by Erwin van Veen and Renad Mansour

Iraq’s Shi’a: A house divided – Report by Erwin van Veen, Nick Grinstead and Floor El Kamouni-Janssen