Home
Plasschaert: Iraq is at a crossroads ... and you give "very necessary" advice to the region
- Time: 05/19/2021 13:40:25
- Read: 2,405 times
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]
{Politics: Al-Furat News} The Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations in Iraq, Jeanine Heine Blashart, said: "Iraq stands at a crossroads," calling for the Kurdistan region to unite within a federal Iraq.
Al-Mukhtasar al-Mufid .. In important news, you can find it on the Al Furat News channel on the Telegram .. [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]
Blashardt said in his speech while hosting a seminar on the sidelines of the "Unity and the Constitution" conference in Erbil: "If you will allow me, I will speak frankly today, and the goal behind my comments is to be challenging and thought provoking at the same time so that we can make attempts - sincerely and constructively." - To address some general problems and concerns.
In other words: Some of you may consider my views to be too explicit and perhaps overly expressive. But as the Kurdish proverb says, “Your friend is the one who makes you cry ..” And
let's face it, in my many conversations in the Kurdistan Region, the opinions expressed are broadly. General very straightforward - whether you like it or not. And at the same time, this is one of the things I really appreciate. We exchange opinions not just to talk but to dive into the heart of things - trying to find solutions.
Control of one's own destiny is a permanent struggle in and of itself for any individual. Given the history and geography of this region, I think it is safe to say that this is especially the case for the people of the Kurdistan Region. This is what the past tells us, as well as the present and the future, shrouded in uncertainty.
What we do know is that it took a long time to achieve today's level of autonomy. Not just time. The price was dear, as many people paid with their lives for it. But like anywhere else in the world, rights and freedoms today are not given at all.
What I am saying is the following: Do not take autonomy for granted today, and for its sustainability, unity is very necessary.
Indeed, as I made clear to the Security Council last week, the federal system only strengthens the bonds between its components - and these ties are strengthened through reconciliation and societal cohesion.
In the case of Iraq, this means that a country is stronger the stronger the ties that unite its diverse peoples. And often these diverse peoples need reconciliation within society as well.
Now, the Kurdistan Region is diverse in nature. It is home to a wide range of peoples, languages and religions. His embrace of this diversity was recently and noticeably embodied during the historic visit of Pope Francis.
One could say that the remarkable strength and resilience of the Kurdistan Region stems from this diversity.
One could even say that “unity in diversity” is the foundational recipe that allowed the Kurdistan Region to exist. And this is definitely the principle that will guarantee his future.
And yes, political diversity also exists in the Kurdistan Region. As in many other countries. While many of these diverse democracies appear strong and stable today, their history has also been marked by bloody wars and suffering.
Needless to say: A strong Kurdistan Region is best prepared and ready to protect its interests. On the contrary, with division comes weakness.
A strong and united Kurdistan region also strengthens a federal Iraq, not only at the local level but also at the international level. Power outside starts with strength inside.
"As a former European and national politician, I can tell you, from my experience, that democracy, especially democracy with multiple levels of government, is hard work," the UN envoy said.
And truly sustainable democratic societies are the opposite of the overnight miracles - they require tremendous patience and a steadfast willingness to make concessions.
Impatience is understandable, of course. I know everything about it. It may even be desirable in order to move things in the direction of the greater public good, but inevitably it is imperative that the democratic process be given time to take hold.
While this is happening, the healthy interaction between the opposition and the government and the formation of parties and coalitions must be allowed to operate at the local, regional, and national levels.
And during all of this, the political leadership's ultimate concern should be: serving its own citizens. The focus should be on solutions that represent the interests of all people living in the Kurdistan Region. Solutions that only address the majority are untenable in the long term.
Now, as I said: even with unity achieved, loneliness can never be taken for granted lest it be lost. Rather, it must be constantly nurtured.
This 'perpetuation work' includes ongoing grassroots outreach, dialogue and concrete actions that make it clear that communities and constituencies are being heard at all times.
When unity is threatened with division, it is the responsibility of the leadership to direct and lead awareness, to unify the conflicting interests.
At the same time, it is the responsibility of every citizen to acknowledge and accept the fact that balancing different opinions and interests requires a permanent compromise, as is the case in any diverse society.
Politics is also described as the "art of the possible." Like it or not, making concessions is the way to settle disputes. I do not deny that the settlement could suddenly be savored as disappointment. But the bitter concession pill will ultimately open the door to lasting success.
Since politics is ultimately local, it is imperative to exercise the spirit of unity and partnership first and foremost at this level. A balanced system is one in which services are fully guaranteed in all areas and at all times - regardless of the political configuration that may be in power.
After all that I have said, it is very important to distinguish between unity and monotheism.
Just because a group can unite as one, it does not mean that a vibrant and sound internal discussion cannot take place, or that a large number of different voices cannot be heard. On the contrary. Diversity of opinions is a source of strength and enrichment, not a threat.
And the thing that is of equal importance is: actions speak louder than words. Fluffy advertisements and speeches have their place, but at the end of the day it is all about getting things done.
From fighting corruption and distancing themselves from narrow partisan interests, to moving seriously towards unifying the Peshmerga and reforms. Yes, the Peshmerga Vision 2025 is one of the best examples. It fuels the imagination. The Kurdistan region should not remain divided between "green" and "yellow". Or any color designations for that matter.
The time has come for real reconciliation and political stability to prevail.
Turning to national sovereignty, it is painfully clear that geography is not always in the interest of Iraq, and certainly the Kurdistan region is no exception. In other words, you are facing unique geopolitical circumstances. This fact alone should be sufficient reason to make a person think twice.
"In order for the elections to take place on October 10, Iraq is at a crossroads. Conducting a credible electoral process with free and broad participation would help guide the country towards a safer and more prosperous future. Of course, the results of these elections are the same for her," she added. Of great importance to the vital relations between Baghdad and Erbil.At
the same time, the Kurdistan region has a choice. It can unite and further enhance its respect for fundamental rights and freedoms, make meaningful progress in the long-awaited field of security and economic reform, and engage in dialogue despite internal disagreements that sometimes seem Intractable (I admit it).
Or ... or perhaps he will fail to arrange his house and risk losing his accomplishments.
Recently - a debate has re -emerged regarding the possibility of a regional constitution. Now, most people will not question the added value of such a constitution. .
If I am not mistaken, a preliminary draft was presented in 2009. It was followed by a few attempts but it was stalled at various stages due to a lack of political accommodation.
Now, let me be clear: All that political leadership means is the people. So is the constitution. It is about people, their rights, and how to protect their rights. It indicates the limits of the powers of the authorities. A constitution is a social contract.
Indeed, it is certain that reactivating this process will provide an important opportunity for all components and sects in the Kurdistan region to cooperate.
This would help to bridge differences and grievances, accept the other - when appropriate - and apologize for them, and respect each other's unique histories. It can help overcome political rivalry and partisanship as well as gridlock among ruling elites.
It can provide a wonderful opportunity to create a forward-looking sense of pride.
It is also an opportunity to clearly define institutional powers and responsibilities. Legal ambiguity is just as harmful at the federal level as it is harmful in the Kurdistan region.
So: If you want to do that, reactivate the process, get it right. Political will is a prerequisite. Empty or broken promises will only further fracture the public’s confidence. And do not underestimate the ease with which anger can grow.
Political infighting and disunity are two toxic scourges - however, they are present at every turn. Is it surprising that people do not believe that the political process serves them, or that it can bring about change?
And again, if you want to do it, do it right. Needless to say, the final document should be in conformity with the Federal Constitution of Iraq.
This represents another challenge, as the Federal Constitution lacks clear guidelines. At the time the Federal Constitution was written, general principles were enshrined in the text while leaving their implementation to subsequent supporting legislation to determine this.
Sixteen years later, however, this lack of specificity continues to shape the debate between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government. Finding durable solutions is an urgent matter. I am sure that we can all agree that the time has come for Iraq to become more than a group of components.
Plasschaert concluded his speech by saying, "In conclusion, allow me to emphasize once again the importance of what has been accomplished by the people of the Kurdistan region in past centuries, and the question now is: How can these achievements be sustained and consolidated ?! And while the United Nations stands with you, it is important to realize that it is - First and foremost - you are all concerned about this, unity in diversity. The key is in your hands. "
Ammar Al-Masoudi
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]
{Politics: Al-Furat News} The Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations in Iraq, Jeanine Heine Blashart, said: "Iraq stands at a crossroads," calling for the Kurdistan region to unite within a federal Iraq.
Al-Mukhtasar al-Mufid .. In important news, you can find it on the Al Furat News channel on the Telegram .. [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]
Blashardt said in his speech while hosting a seminar on the sidelines of the "Unity and the Constitution" conference in Erbil: "If you will allow me, I will speak frankly today, and the goal behind my comments is to be challenging and thought provoking at the same time so that we can make attempts - sincerely and constructively." - To address some general problems and concerns.
In other words: Some of you may consider my views to be too explicit and perhaps overly expressive. But as the Kurdish proverb says, “Your friend is the one who makes you cry ..” And
let's face it, in my many conversations in the Kurdistan Region, the opinions expressed are broadly. General very straightforward - whether you like it or not. And at the same time, this is one of the things I really appreciate. We exchange opinions not just to talk but to dive into the heart of things - trying to find solutions.
Control of one's own destiny is a permanent struggle in and of itself for any individual. Given the history and geography of this region, I think it is safe to say that this is especially the case for the people of the Kurdistan Region. This is what the past tells us, as well as the present and the future, shrouded in uncertainty.
What we do know is that it took a long time to achieve today's level of autonomy. Not just time. The price was dear, as many people paid with their lives for it. But like anywhere else in the world, rights and freedoms today are not given at all.
What I am saying is the following: Do not take autonomy for granted today, and for its sustainability, unity is very necessary.
Indeed, as I made clear to the Security Council last week, the federal system only strengthens the bonds between its components - and these ties are strengthened through reconciliation and societal cohesion.
In the case of Iraq, this means that a country is stronger the stronger the ties that unite its diverse peoples. And often these diverse peoples need reconciliation within society as well.
Now, the Kurdistan Region is diverse in nature. It is home to a wide range of peoples, languages and religions. His embrace of this diversity was recently and noticeably embodied during the historic visit of Pope Francis.
One could say that the remarkable strength and resilience of the Kurdistan Region stems from this diversity.
One could even say that “unity in diversity” is the foundational recipe that allowed the Kurdistan Region to exist. And this is definitely the principle that will guarantee his future.
And yes, political diversity also exists in the Kurdistan Region. As in many other countries. While many of these diverse democracies appear strong and stable today, their history has also been marked by bloody wars and suffering.
Needless to say: A strong Kurdistan Region is best prepared and ready to protect its interests. On the contrary, with division comes weakness.
A strong and united Kurdistan region also strengthens a federal Iraq, not only at the local level but also at the international level. Power outside starts with strength inside.
"As a former European and national politician, I can tell you, from my experience, that democracy, especially democracy with multiple levels of government, is hard work," the UN envoy said.
And truly sustainable democratic societies are the opposite of the overnight miracles - they require tremendous patience and a steadfast willingness to make concessions.
Impatience is understandable, of course. I know everything about it. It may even be desirable in order to move things in the direction of the greater public good, but inevitably it is imperative that the democratic process be given time to take hold.
While this is happening, the healthy interaction between the opposition and the government and the formation of parties and coalitions must be allowed to operate at the local, regional, and national levels.
And during all of this, the political leadership's ultimate concern should be: serving its own citizens. The focus should be on solutions that represent the interests of all people living in the Kurdistan Region. Solutions that only address the majority are untenable in the long term.
Now, as I said: even with unity achieved, loneliness can never be taken for granted lest it be lost. Rather, it must be constantly nurtured.
This 'perpetuation work' includes ongoing grassroots outreach, dialogue and concrete actions that make it clear that communities and constituencies are being heard at all times.
When unity is threatened with division, it is the responsibility of the leadership to direct and lead awareness, to unify the conflicting interests.
At the same time, it is the responsibility of every citizen to acknowledge and accept the fact that balancing different opinions and interests requires a permanent compromise, as is the case in any diverse society.
Politics is also described as the "art of the possible." Like it or not, making concessions is the way to settle disputes. I do not deny that the settlement could suddenly be savored as disappointment. But the bitter concession pill will ultimately open the door to lasting success.
Since politics is ultimately local, it is imperative to exercise the spirit of unity and partnership first and foremost at this level. A balanced system is one in which services are fully guaranteed in all areas and at all times - regardless of the political configuration that may be in power.
After all that I have said, it is very important to distinguish between unity and monotheism.
Just because a group can unite as one, it does not mean that a vibrant and sound internal discussion cannot take place, or that a large number of different voices cannot be heard. On the contrary. Diversity of opinions is a source of strength and enrichment, not a threat.
And the thing that is of equal importance is: actions speak louder than words. Fluffy advertisements and speeches have their place, but at the end of the day it is all about getting things done.
From fighting corruption and distancing themselves from narrow partisan interests, to moving seriously towards unifying the Peshmerga and reforms. Yes, the Peshmerga Vision 2025 is one of the best examples. It fuels the imagination. The Kurdistan region should not remain divided between "green" and "yellow". Or any color designations for that matter.
The time has come for real reconciliation and political stability to prevail.
Turning to national sovereignty, it is painfully clear that geography is not always in the interest of Iraq, and certainly the Kurdistan region is no exception. In other words, you are facing unique geopolitical circumstances. This fact alone should be sufficient reason to make a person think twice.
"In order for the elections to take place on October 10, Iraq is at a crossroads. Conducting a credible electoral process with free and broad participation would help guide the country towards a safer and more prosperous future. Of course, the results of these elections are the same for her," she added. Of great importance to the vital relations between Baghdad and Erbil.At
the same time, the Kurdistan region has a choice. It can unite and further enhance its respect for fundamental rights and freedoms, make meaningful progress in the long-awaited field of security and economic reform, and engage in dialogue despite internal disagreements that sometimes seem Intractable (I admit it).
Or ... or perhaps he will fail to arrange his house and risk losing his accomplishments.
Recently - a debate has re -emerged regarding the possibility of a regional constitution. Now, most people will not question the added value of such a constitution. .
If I am not mistaken, a preliminary draft was presented in 2009. It was followed by a few attempts but it was stalled at various stages due to a lack of political accommodation.
Now, let me be clear: All that political leadership means is the people. So is the constitution. It is about people, their rights, and how to protect their rights. It indicates the limits of the powers of the authorities. A constitution is a social contract.
Indeed, it is certain that reactivating this process will provide an important opportunity for all components and sects in the Kurdistan region to cooperate.
This would help to bridge differences and grievances, accept the other - when appropriate - and apologize for them, and respect each other's unique histories. It can help overcome political rivalry and partisanship as well as gridlock among ruling elites.
It can provide a wonderful opportunity to create a forward-looking sense of pride.
It is also an opportunity to clearly define institutional powers and responsibilities. Legal ambiguity is just as harmful at the federal level as it is harmful in the Kurdistan region.
So: If you want to do that, reactivate the process, get it right. Political will is a prerequisite. Empty or broken promises will only further fracture the public’s confidence. And do not underestimate the ease with which anger can grow.
Political infighting and disunity are two toxic scourges - however, they are present at every turn. Is it surprising that people do not believe that the political process serves them, or that it can bring about change?
And again, if you want to do it, do it right. Needless to say, the final document should be in conformity with the Federal Constitution of Iraq.
This represents another challenge, as the Federal Constitution lacks clear guidelines. At the time the Federal Constitution was written, general principles were enshrined in the text while leaving their implementation to subsequent supporting legislation to determine this.
Sixteen years later, however, this lack of specificity continues to shape the debate between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government. Finding durable solutions is an urgent matter. I am sure that we can all agree that the time has come for Iraq to become more than a group of components.
Plasschaert concluded his speech by saying, "In conclusion, allow me to emphasize once again the importance of what has been accomplished by the people of the Kurdistan region in past centuries, and the question now is: How can these achievements be sustained and consolidated ?! And while the United Nations stands with you, it is important to realize that it is - First and foremost - you are all concerned about this, unity in diversity. The key is in your hands. "
Ammar Al-Masoudi
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]
» Prime Minister: Our government has provided great support for the success of the activities, program
» Appreciating the presence of Al-Sudani... Director General of the Arab Labor Organization: Here from
» Al-Sudani: The world is witnessing crises that reflect negatively on the Arab and international peop
» Prime Minister: Our government has provided great support for the success of the activities, program
» The Parliamentary Development Institute organizes a workshop on the political role of the representa
» With Arab and international participation. Tomorrow will be the start of the Fourth Baghdad Internat
» OPEC Secretary General: The end of oil is not on the horizon
» Closing a number of unlicensed offices and companies south of Baghdad
» Repercussions of the bombing...intensive government movements to resume work in the “Kormor” field
» In the presence of Al-Sudani...the opening of the Arab Labor Conference in its 50th session in Baghd
» Al-Sudani: We are working on drawing future visions regarding the “green and digital” economic secto
» Barzani after the Kormor attack: We are ready to coordinate with Baghdad to put an end to these atta
» Al-Sudani directs the formation of an investigative committee into the circumstances of the Kormo fi
» Bismayah is confused about the new electronic portal.. What about the landlord and the subcontracts?
» Kurdistan Government: Loss of 2,500 megawatts of electricity due to targeting the Kormor field
» Crisis in Kurdistan: 12-hour daily power outage and complaints of “confusion”
» The Supreme Anti-Corruption Commission demands Nineveh for the contracts concluded by “Najm Al-Jubou
» Al-Khanjar, Al-Samarrai, and Abu Mazen are hosted by Shaalan Al-Karim to discuss accelerating the se
» Iraq asks the countries of the world to respond to its requests to extradite wanted persons: We have
» “It is coming soon.” The Sudanese advisor sets the date for the referral of the Baghdad metro and th
» Al-Mubarqa: Iraq reserves its full right to respond to the Australian behavior
» Dollar exchange rates on Iraqi stock exchanges... recorded a decline, and this is the list
» Mr. Al-Sadr supports the position of American university students
» Iraqis are ranked 7th in the Arab world on the list of those most seeking immigration to America. He
» The UAE company ADNOC resorts to Iraqi oil. Find out the reasons
» Soon.. 3 new hospitals will open in Baghdad
» Sponsored by Al-Sudani...the opening of the Arab Labor Conference in its fiftieth session in Baghdad
» Al-Shammari chairs a meeting at the controlling headquarters to review the results of the security o
» Arab Labor Organization: We commend Iraq's interest in the Arab Labor Conference
» Al-Sudani: The development road project will provide many job opportunities
» utube MM&C 4/26/24 Iraqi Dinar - US Treasury Exchange Rates- Focus - Banking Partnerships - Rate C
» Sudanese advisor criticizes Kuwaiti analyzes regarding the development road project
» Al-Mandalawi stresses the need to strengthen economic and trade cooperation between Iraq and Poland
» Power maneuvers: America provides defensive weapons to Kurdistan in exchange for withholding from Ba
» Kuwait is drilling an oil well near Umm Qasr, towards Iraqi territory
» In the document... the first Iraqi ministry identifies the obstacles to changing the new official wo
» Italian Institute: Iraq is stuck in its own crises, including Baghdad’s efforts to undermine the “au
» The head of the Integrity Commission announces the holding of an international Interpol conference i
» Planning: Iraqi companies are not efficient in conducting the population census
» utube MM&C 4/24/24 Support - USA- Turkey - Timing- Currency Value - Tabled
» MM&C 4/25/24 National Bank of Iraq goes live with Temenos core banking and payments
» A banking official indicates a "danger" to Iraq by depriving more than half of its banks of dollars
» With the participation of the Association of Private Banks, investment opportunities are on the tabl
» Within a month... an Iranian border crossing recorded a noticeable increase in exports of goods to I
» The Association of Private Banks appreciates the efforts of the government and the Central Bank to c
» Al-Maliki's coalition presents a third candidate for the position of governor of Diyala
» Arab gathering: The Kirkuk problem is getting complicated and the Sudanese must intervene
» Next week.. a Kurdish delegation will visit Baghdad to meet with the Minister of Finance
» Under the pretext of salaries... Al-Party refrains from handing over port revenues to Baghdad
» Association of Banks: For the first time, we are witnessing a clear targeting of depriving half of t
» Parliament does not know the reason for the delay in sending the 2024 budget schedules: Voting takes
» Applicants for the 2024 Hajj are demanding that the Central Bank secure the dollar for them through
» Governmental and private banks will showcase their services tomorrow during Financial Inclusion Week
» Iraq's oil exports rise despite OPEC+ cuts
» A study explodes a "surprise"... Iraq is among the countries that export oil to "Israel": How is the
» Al-Araji emphasizes working to strengthen national identity
» Al-Sudani visits Saudi Arabia to participate in the World Economic Forum in Riyadh
» Iraq is talking about producing one million additional liters of gasoline
» The Council of Ministers approves the implementation of the Baghdad Metro project
» Minister of Commerce: We formed a joint economic committee with Türkiye
» Resources: Government measures have contributed to improving the water situation in Iraq
» Parliamentary Finance: Baghdad will continue to send salaries to the region’s employees until settle
» A parliamentarian describes the corruption of Iraqi ports as “ghouls” and reveals the involvement of
» Obelisk Hour: Basra is the subject of political conflict and ambiguity over the fate of the funds al
» Turkmen leader: An agreement on the local government of Kirkuk is near
» Anbar calls for the operation of its factories despite financial obstacles
» Turki: The crisis of the Presidency of Parliament prompted the Sunnis to amend the Council’s interna
» The Agriculture Committee confirms the existence of Iraqi-Turkish-Iranian discussions on water
» Resources diagnose the challenges facing the water file in Iraq
» Parliament pledges to the Interior Ministry: We will transfer money to buy weapons from citizens
» Al-Issawi is the closest.. Parliament sets the date for deciding the choice of the new president
» Deputy: Iraq's investments have risen and need a comprehensive review of previous years
» Iraqis consume 7 billion eggs annually and import about $900 million
» The Iranian role complicates attempts at open cooperation between Iraq and Turkey. Turkey is trying
» Move in Iran to obtain $242 billion from Iraq in compensation for the eight-year war
» 12 decisions from the Council of Ministers regarding the Baghdad Metro and Najaf-Karbala train proje
» Sudanese Advisor: The path to development has begun... the Baka and the militias “we silence them wi
» Not from Kurdistan.. How did Iraq become a source of oil for “Israeli tanks”?
» Parliamentary Agriculture criticizes the Sudanese and Erdogan agreement: Türkiye will control water
» The Iraqi government issues new decisions
» The story of “reduced oil” to Jordan, from “compulsion” to mutual benefit.. Is there a loss?
» The Council of Ministers takes 12 decisions for the Baghdad Metro and the Najaf-Karbala train
» utube MM&C 4/23/24 Iraqi Dinar - IQD Update - Development Road Project - Saviour of Global Banking
» Kidney from pig transplanted into deathly ill New Jersey woman — and begins working almost immediat
» The most difficult option.. Warnings of the danger of floating the Iraqi dinar without achieving an
» Trade from the “Economic Committee” with Türkiye: It will overcome all obstacles facing the traders
» Washington's hope for stable relations with Baghdad clashes with Iraqi parties' rejection of the Ame
» Karim Badr: Development is America’s will to kill silk
» Oil: Opening of a new port for liquid gas for vehicles in Baghdad
» A media advisor warns of corruption in a draft law on the Parliament’s agenda
» Economist: There is serious work to lift US sanctions on Iraqi banks
» Will the agreements signed with the US Treasury reflect positively on the exchange rates?
» Iraq continues its quest to join the World Trade Organization
» Iraq completes the completion of the files for the initial offer of goods and services to join the W
» Economist: Travelers' dollars are leaking into the parallel market...and this is what the Central Ba
» President of the Federal Court: It is not permissible to force anyone to join any party, and the pol
» The Council of Ministers holds its session headed by Al-Sudani
» America weakens Baghdad...and increases Kurdistan's military capabilities