Vision Foundation for Strategic Studies, in cooperation with the Future Organization for Environmental Protection, held an open dialogue session on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, focusing on environmental protection, preparedness measures, and the development of a strategic plan aimed at safeguarding forests and grasslands from potential summer wildfires.
The session was attended by the Deputy Governor of Sulaymaniyah, the Director of Forest Police, religious scholars, academics, and representatives of civil society organizations.
the session held under the title “A National Strategy for Protecting the Environment and Forests,” the discussion emphasized the importance of establishing a comprehensive plan and coordinated preparedness mechanisms to address wildfire risks during the upcoming summer season and minimize environmental and material damages.
During the session, Shaho Othman, Deputy Governor of Sulaymaniyah, highlighted the importance of coordination among all institutions concerned with environmental affairs. He stated that the local government of Sulaymaniyah has made significant preparations to respond to emergency wildfire incidents in coordination with relevant authorities, while stressing that controlling fires in remote areas still requires additional resources and preparedness.
Participants also noted that the high levels of rainfall recorded this year across various parts of the Kurdistan Region could increase the spread of dense vegetation and dry grasslands, particularly in rural and open areas, which may raise the risk of wildfires. They stressed the need for full coordination among Forest Police, environmental directorates, civil defense authorities, and environmental organizations to effectively respond to emergencies.
Environmental experts further called for reviewing and updating certain environmental laws and establishing volunteer teams specialized in creating firebreaks and supporting rapid wildfire containment efforts across different areas.
ate the end of the session, a joint press conference was held with representatives of the Forest Police, environmental institutions, and participating organizations. During the conference, Vision Foundation for Strategic Studies announced its intention to prepare a comprehensive strategic plan incorporating the main recommendations and observations raised throughout the dialogue, which will later be submitted to the relevant authorities.