Sulaymaniyah: A Model of Security, Culture, and Media Freedom

Kurdistan 01:08 PM - 2025-08-24

Sulaymaniyah city.

The stability and security enjoyed by Sulaymaniyah have turned the city a symbol for other parts of the Kurdistan Region, enabling the city to host numerous literary and cultural events with the participation of both local and international delegations.

Media Misrepresentation of Sulaymaniyah

Stran Abdullah, a member of the Leadership Council of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), criticised the manner in which sections of the Iraqi and Arab media reported recent developments in Sulaymaniyah.

He stated in an article published on PUKMEDIA: “The Iraqi and Arab media coverage of Sulaymaniyah has been exaggerated in scope and unfair to both the PUK and the city’s administration. Had the Iraqi media devoted similar attention to the unresolved issues between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Region—particularly the matter of delayed salaries—it would have played a far more constructive national role, contributing to solutions and reinforcing Iraqi unity.”

Commenting on Arab media coverage, Abdullah added: “If Arab outlets had dealt with Sulaymaniyah’s security situation with neutrality and professionalism, even at the most basic level, they could have set an example for Kurdish media to follow. Instead, it is evident that a campaign is being orchestrated by wealthy partisan groups, in coordination with ideologically driven Arab channels, with the aim of undermining Sulaymaniyah’s democratic and opposition experience.”

Cultural Capital of the Kurdistan Region

Ariwan Siwayli, Director of Sulaymaniyah Directorate of Media, Publishing, and Printing, told PUKMEDIA that the city’s stability has cemented its status as the cultural capital of the Kurdistan Region.

“Thanks to the peace and security enjoyed here, Sulaymaniyah has become a hub for cultural and literary activity. By the end of this month alone, the city will host several international events, with delegations from a wide range of countries taking part,” he said.

Security as a Foundation for Progress

Sarkawt Ahmed, spokesperson for the Sulaymaniyah Police, highlighted the decisive role of the security forces in creating this environment.

“The vigilance and professionalism of the security forces have ensured that Sulaymaniyah remains safe and stable. This prevailing security has paved the way for cultural, literary, and sporting events to flourish,” Ahmed told PUKMEDIA.

A Hub for Media and Journalism

According to the Kurdistan Journalists Syndicate, Sulaymaniyah has become the foremost centre for media activity in the Kurdistan Region, with the majority of press, broadcasting, and publishing outlets based in the city.

Karwan Anwar, Secretary of the Syndicate’s Sulaymaniyah Branch, told PUKMEDIA: “The presence of this large number of television, radio, and print media outlets is a clear indicator of the city’s favourable environment for journalism. Journalists operate freely, reporting on developments without restriction. Security, stability, and freedom have made Sulaymaniyah a model for other governorates. Unfortunately, this also means that even the smallest incident attracts disproportionate media attention, and some outlets deliberately exaggerate events in an unprofessional manner.”

According to the latest statistics from the Sulaymaniyah branch of the Kurdistan Journalists Syndicate, the city hosts the largest concentration of media institutions and channels in the region. Its political stability and security have created an exceptionally favourable environment for journalistic work.

In a recent statement, the branch secretary urged media outlets to adopt alternative arrangements rather than crowding microphones in front of speakers, as the sheer number of microphones leaves insufficient space for the speaker to appear properly.

Diplomatic Envoys and Cultural Events Highlight Sulaymaniyah’s Prominence

The China-Kurdish Relations Center has invited the media to cover an important event at Sulaymaniyah University, which will be attended by numerous distinguished guests, including the Chinese Ambassador and Consul General, a representative of the centre told PUKMEDIA.

Sulaymaniyah has emerged as a focal point for cultural and scientific activities, attracting officials and representatives from various countries who are keen to visit the city.

Preparations Underway for the International Book Fair

The seventh Sulaymaniyah International Book Fair, named in honour of President Mam Jalal, is set to become one of the most significant cultural events in the Kurdistan Region. Last year, the event drew 963,000 visitors, reflecting the city’s growing reputation as a hub of intellectual and cultural activity. Dozens of writers, academics, and prominent regional and international figures are expected to participate in this year’s exhibition, underscoring Sulaymaniyah’s status as one of the most peaceful and culturally vibrant cities in Iraq.

The active presence of political parties, civil society organisations, and grassroots activists in Sulaymaniyah further demonstrates that the city’s stability provides a conducive environment for creativity and civic engagement. Residents and organisations are able to carry out cultural, social, and political activities freely, including demonstrations, rallies, and the advocacy of rights.

A Symbol of Democracy and Stability

Sulaymaniyah today stands as an example of how stability, security, and freedom can foster cultural vibrancy, media diversity, and political openness. While some media actors seek to distort this reality, the city continues to project a model that reflects the values of democracy, freedom of expression, and civic progress across the Kurdistan Region and beyond.

Alongside its well-established peace and security, Sulaymaniyah leads in Iraq across multiple areas, including environmental quality, green spaces, healthcare, agriculture, and the international ranking of its universities, making it the foremost province in the country.



PUKMEDIA