UOD – February 10, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) —

The College of Law at the University of Duhok (UOD) organized a scientific and awareness-raising workshop titled “Suicide: Causes and Prevention”, addressing the phenomenon of suicide from religious, social, and psychological perspectives.

The workshop was held in the College of Law hall and attended by Prof. Dr. Aveen Khalid Abduleahman, Dean of the College of Law, along with a number of faculty members and students. The event aimed to raise awareness among university students and foster open dialogue on the dangers of suicide and effective preventive approaches within society.

Religious Perspectives on Suicide

The workshop featured in-depth discussions on the perspectives of different religions within the community.

At the beginning of the session, Father Yousif Yaqo Yousif, a Christian religious figure and church affairs representative, explained that in Christianity, suicide is considered a grave sin, as life is a divine gift granted by God alone. He emphasized that taking one’s own life contradicts the divine commandment “You shall not kill”, noting that the Church consistently calls for preserving hope, faith, and spiritual resilience in the face of hardship.

Subsequently, Mr. Gohdar Ali Joqi, a researcher and activist in the Ezidi faith, highlighted that in Ezidi religion, human beings are regarded as the essence of creation and the most honored existence. He stressed that life is the most precious trust bestowed by God, and protecting it is a sacred duty.

From an Islamic perspective, Dr. Mohammed Ameen Waheed Ibrahim, Head of the Department of Arabic Language, addressed the ruling on suicide in Islam, explaining that the soul is a great trust from God and that suicide is classified among the major sins. He attributed the causes of suicide to factors such as loss of hope, weakness of faith, and psychological, social, and economic pressures.

Open Discussion and Recommendations

The workshop concluded with an open discussion session, during which participants exchanged views and presented a number of scientific and practical recommendations aimed at reducing the incidence of suicide within society and enhancing community awareness.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MEDIA COVERAGE FOR THIS EVENT

University Press Office, February 10, 2026

Reported by: Nibar Haji Hussain

Photography: Mohammed A. Tahar.

News Keywords:

• University of Duhok
• College of Law
• Suicide Awareness and Prevention
• Religious Perspectives
• Community and Student Engagement