Iraq and Syria Panel One - A Pivotal Moment for Iraq

Following Iraq’s defeat of ISIS, the country must manage a web of internal challenges and conflicts, many deepened by the war. As the country prepares for a critical national election, its social fabric is torn by sectarian tensions, the ongoing displacement of over 2 million citizens, and the Kurdistan region’s 2017 independence referendum. The economy is stagnant; corruption is pervasive. Yet Iraqi pride in the military victory against the ISIS extremists has increased nationalist sentiments in many communities. Many hope the victory and the country’s energy shifting into politics would enable positive change. So what is the path ahead? Experts will discuss Iraq’s recovery from ISIS and the country’s future.

Panelists:

Ambassador Alberto Fernandez, Moderator
President, Middle East Broadcasting Networks
Ambassador Fareed Yasseen
Ambassador to the United States, Republic of Iraq

Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman
Kurdistan Regional Government Representative to the United States

Sarhang Hamasaeed
Director, Middle East Programs, U.S. Institute of Peace