Yezidis, Kurds and PKK in Armenia

Global Sounds and Images program of Global Resources Center at Gelman Library, George Washington University presents:

Yezidis, Kurds and PKK in Armenia: notes of an accidental undercover operative

By Mark Yoffe Ph. D.
Global Resources Specialist for Russia, Eastern/Central Europe and Eurasia, GRC, Gelman Library

In September/October 2007 Dr. Yoffe, a recipient of an IREX/ US Department of State sponsored US Embassy Policy Specialist Program grant traveled to the Republic of Armenia to conduct an ethnological study of mysterious and little known pagan tribe known as Yezidi (aka Yezidi-Kurds) on behalf of the US Embassy in Armenia. Due to the volatile political situation in adjoining Turkey and its military confrontation with Kurdish PKK rebels Dr. Yoffe’s mission, that in itself promised to be interesting, took an unexpected turn and put him on a trail of PKK emissaries in Armenia. In his talk he will share his findings about the fascinating and ancient culture and religious beliefs of sun-worshipping Yezidis, their complex relationships with Kurds and issues of Kurdish identity and their attitude towards PKK and the idea of the creation of Greater Kurdistan. The talk will be illustrated with slides taken by Dr. Yoffe on his trip.

The talk will take place at 5pm. on Tuesday February 19th in room 207, 2nd floor of Gelman Library.
Light refreshments will be served

For more information please call: 202 994-6303
For directions call: 202 994-7105 

The event is co-sponsored by: the National Security Archive and the Institute for European, Russian & Eurasian Studies, GWU

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Last modified: Thursday, January 31, 2008 17:33:22 PM