Duhok, February 27, 2025 – The University of Duhok (UOD) reaffirmed its commitment to genocide research, historical preservation, and human rights advocacy by hosting a high-profile academic panel commemorating 37 years since the Anfal genocide. Organized by the Center for Genocide Studies, the American Chemical Society (ACS) - UOD Chapter, and the Beşikçi Center for Humanity Research, the event examined the use of chemical weapons, legal justice, and the long-term impact on Kurdish communities.

Held at University Convention Center (UNCC), the panel brought together academics, legal experts, researchers, and students to discuss the historical, scientific, and legal dimensions of one of the darkest chapters in Kurdish history.

Academic Reflections on Anfal: Genocide, Chemical Warfare, and Justice

The Anfal Campaign genocide, orchestrated by the Ba'ath regime, led to the systematic extermination and displacement of thousands of Kurdish civilians. This commemoration reflects UOD’s strategic vision in advancing genocide studies, forensic research, and international human rights advocacy, ensuring that the legacy of Anfal remains a central focus of academic discourse.

Key Panel Discussions

🔹 Preserving Historical Memory – Opening Remarks by Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi

Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, the President of UOD, emphasized the importance of historical remembrance as a foundation for justice and reconciliation:
"At the University of Duhok, we are committed to ensuring that the memories of Anfal’s victims remain alive—not just as a tribute to those who suffered but as a moral and academic responsibility to educate future generations."

He also highlighted UOD’s integration of genocide studies into its academic framework, reinforcing the university’s role as a regional leader in conflict studies, human rights research, and post-genocide justice initiatives.

The Strategic Use of Chemical Weapons in Anfal – Insights from Dr. Salim Jassim Haji

Dr. Salim Jassim Haji, Director of the Center for Genocide Studies, provided a comprehensive analysis of the chemical warfare campaign during Anfal, explaining the tactical and political motivations behind these attacks.

He detailed how mustard gas and nerve agents were deployed systematically to devastate Kurdish villages, causing mass casualties and irreversible environmental damage.

"Anfal was not just a military operation; it was a calculated act of extermination aimed at erasing the Kurdish identity," Dr. Jassim stated.

Legal Framework: Holding Perpetrators Accountable – Lawyer Mohammed Saleh Amedi

Legal expert Mohammed Saleh Amedi examined the judicial classification of Anfal under international law, highlighting:

• The recognition of Anfal as a war crime and crime against humanity by the Iraqi High Court.
• The role of legal documentation in securing convictions for crimes involving chemical weapons.
• The need for continued legal action to ensure justice, recognition, and reparations for Anfal survivors.

He urged affected families to pursue international legal mechanisms to keep the case of Anfal visible in global human rights discourse.

Environmental & Health Consequences: The Case of Birjini Village – Mr. Aras Kurdo Brjini

Environmental researcher Aras Kurdo Brjini presented a case study on Birjini village, detailing the long-term consequences of chemical weapons exposure, including:

☣️ Rising cancer rates and genetic disorders in survivors.
☣️ Soil and water contamination, rendering farmland unusable.
☣️ The economic devastation of affected rural communities.

His research underscored the urgent need for environmental rehabilitation programs and long-term medical support for affected populations.

Understanding Chemical Weapons: UOD Graduate Presentation by Asma Kareem Mustafa

UOD graduate Asma Kareem Mustafa delivered an insightful presentation on the chemical composition, deployment methods, and residual health effects of the weapons used during Anfal.

Her session included a documentary featuring survivor testimonies and archival footage, providing a powerful reminder of the atrocities committed and their ongoing impact.

UOD’s Commitment to Genocide Research and Human Rights Advocacy

This commemoration aligns with UOD’s long-term strategy of positioning itself as a regional hub for genocide studies, human rights education, and international law research. The university continues to expand its academic and policy-driven initiatives, with a focus on:

• Post-genocide reconciliation and justice – Developing frameworks for survivor support and transitional justice.
• Forensic investigations into war crimes – Advancing scientific documentation of genocide evidence.
• Digital archiving and survivor testimonies – Preserving Kurdish history through research and digital platforms.
• Human rights policy development – Engaging with international organizations to advocate for legal protections.

By fostering global academic collaborations, UOD ensures that the lessons of Anfal remain central to contemporary discussions on genocide prevention and transitional justice.

Engaging the Global Community in Genocide Awareness

The event concluded with an interactive panel discussion, where scholars and attendees explored ways to integrate genocide education into university curricula and enhance global awareness through academic partnerships.

Through initiatives like these, UOD continues to foster a deeper understanding of historical atrocities, advocate for international justice, and empower the next generation of scholars to contribute to the global fight against genocide and human rights violations.

📢 For more information on UOD’s genocide research and human rights initiatives, visit the Center for Genocide Studies.

📍 University of Duhok Media | February 27, 2025
✍ Reported by: Nibar Haji Hussein
📸 Photography by: Mohammed Abdulkareem Tahir (View Photo for this Event)

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