UOD, April 28, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO) –
In a significant demonstration of its commitment to research-driven policy engagement and academic leadership, the University of Duhok (UOD) convened a high-level scientific seminar bringing together five of its specialized research centers to address pressing geopolitical developments in the Middle East.

Held at the Beşikҫi Center for Humanity Research, the seminar formed part of UOD’s broader strategic vision to strengthen interdisciplinary research, evidence-based policymaking, and societal impact through academic expertise.

The event was attended by prominent academic leaders, including Prof. Dr. Hawar Khalil Taher, Dean of the College of Political Science; Dr. Bassam Ahmed Abdullah, Dean of the College of Administration and Economics; and Dr. Salah Mohammed Saleem, Director of the Beşikҫi Center, alongside directors of research centers and a distinguished group of faculty experts.

A Collaborative Academic Platform for Regional Analysis

At the heart of the seminar was a critical and forward-looking discussion titled:
“The Kurdistan Region Under the Fallout of War in the Middle East.”

This joint initiative brought together the expertise of five key UOD research centers:

• Beşikҫi Center for Humanity Research
• Center for Gender Equality Studies
• Center for Federalism Studies
• Center for Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies
• Center for Genocide Studies

Through this collaboration, the University reinforced its role as a hub for strategic dialogue and multidisciplinary research, addressing complex regional dynamics from political, social, and humanitarian perspectives.

Advancing Strategic Research and Policy Dialogue

The seminar provided a comprehensive analysis of the evolving political and security landscape in the Middle East, with particular attention to how ongoing conflicts influence the stability, governance, and strategic positioning of the Kurdistan Region.

Discussions emphasized:

• The importance of regional stability and conflict-sensitive governance
• The role of federalism and institutional resilience in fragile contexts
• The impact of geopolitical shifts on economic development and social cohesion

This aligns closely with UOD’s strategic priorities in promoting:
sustainability, peacebuilding, inclusive governance, and international academic collaboration.

From Academic Insight to Actionable Recommendations

A dynamic scholarly exchange among participants led to the formulation of a set of evidence-based recommendations, aimed at informing both academic discourse and policy considerations during this critical phase.

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University Press Office, April 28, 2026
Prepared by: Nibar Haji Hussein
Photography by: Mohammed A. Tahar