IRAQ: Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian political parties convene in Ankawa to address national challenges and strengthen unity

ANKAWA, Kurdistan Region of Iraq — Political parties representing the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people held a periodic meeting at the headquarters of the Political Bureau of the Bet-Nahrain Democratic Party (Gaba Demoqrataya d-Bet-Nahrai, BNPD) in Ankawa, Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), to discuss critical issues concerning their community amid current regional and global challenges.

Representatives from the Beth Nahrain Patriotic Union in Iraq (Huyodo d’Bethnahrin Athroyo, HBA), Chaldean Syriac Assyrian Popular Council (Motwa), Assyrian Democratic Movement (Zawʻá Demoqraṭáyá ʼÁṯuráyá, Zowaa), and the BNPD participated in the meeting. Discussions focused on the rights and status of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people, as well as the impact of regional crises, including the recent violence in Syria’s coastal region.

Focus on Advocacy in US

The meeting included a report on the parties’ recent delegation visit to the United States, where they attended the Religious Freedom Conference. During the visit, the delegation presented the community’s demands and sought support from US officials, members of Congress, and Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian communities across America.

The delegation emphasized the importance of international backing to secure their rights and safeguard their presence in Iraq.

Reviving Cultural Heritage and Strengthening Unity

The revival of cultural and national events, including Akitu, the Assyrian-Babylonian New Year, was a significant topic. The parties agreed on joint activities to celebrate these occasions, aiming to bolster unified national efforts.

Election Law Reform and Political Representation

The meeting underscored the urgent need to amend the Election Law to ensure the independence of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian community in electing genuine representatives. Concerns were raised about interference by larger political parties seeking to control seats reserved for their community. The parties committed to working with relevant authorities to secure fair and independent representation.

Enhancing Collaboration and Global Advocacy

The participants stressed the importance of continuous communication among Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian parties and institutions, both domestically and internationally. They pledged to intensify efforts to bring attention to their community’s issues in global forums, advocating for the survival and presence of Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people in their ancestral homeland.

Unified National Efforts

The meeting concluded with a call for joint national efforts to address challenges and obstacles collectively. The parties emphasized the need for strong, unified participation in upcoming political milestones and reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the future of the Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian community.

Through these measures, the parties aim to preserve their heritage, secure their rights, and ensure a thriving future for their people in Iraq.