Economic migrant or refugee? Why young Iraqis are risking their lives to get to Europe
Europe is dealing with an influx of refugees from places like Syria, Afghanistan and Eritrea. But the continent should also expect a rising number of Iraqis. The current security crisis in Iraq caused by the extremist group known as the Islamic State has not just distorted the lives of millions north of Baghdad. It has also given unofficial militias, made up mostly of Shiite Muslim volunteers, unprecedented power on the streets of Baghdad and in almost every other city. The militias, who have played a key role against the Islamic State, or IS, group, have fought bravely but their increased presence has also meant nerve-wracking pressure on both the government and the people of Iraq.
Continue reading on Niqash
A starting point for refugees' dreams...and nightmares
Usually in summer, Bodrum is known as a glitzy destination for Turkish celebrities and moneyed Istanbulites, its upmarket nightclubs and golden sands earning it the moniker of the Turkish Saint Tropez.
But this year, with the summer holiday season in full swing, the Bodrum peninsular has become a launch point for refugees making the open boat journey from Turkey to the EU and the Greek island of Kos, tantalisingly visible to the south.
Continue reading on AFP Correspondent
Dream in pink
A guitar, a resting dog. A sea of swimming fish, birds flying out from the barrel of a gun. All painted in fluorescent pink, with broad strokes, on top of photographs in black and white. The latest work of Iraqi-born photographer and artist Jamal Penjweny, entitled Pink Dream, is a collection of pictures taken across Iraq, portraying brief moments in the lives of everyday Iraqis. While the original photos speak silently about sadness and loss, Jamal Penjweny, through scribbling bright and rosy drawings on their surface, elevates them, infuses them with a message of hope.
Continue reading on Mashallah News
