Booking now: CIIR lecture on Iraq

The Catholic Institute for International Relations (CIIR) is hosting a talk on Iraq on 28 July, with guest speaker James O'Connell, Professor Emeritus of Peace Studies and Research Professor at Bradford University. In his address, Professor O'Connell will look at what the future holds for Iraq following the handover of power. He will examine issues of security and dignity, infrastructural repair and employment and how these areas have been complicated and worsened by the ongoing insurgency. The origins of the war will be examined in the light of how they have influenced contemporary events. His talk will conclude with an analysis of prospects for an Iraqi democracy, the danger of civil war and the possibility of a return to autocracy. Professor O'Connell spent 15 years as head of the peace studies department at Bradford University - an experience that has equipped him with an invaluable insight into conflict resolution. He took up his post at Bradford in 1978 after teaching in Nigeria, the United States and Ireland. In addition to his current role as Professor Emeritus, he is President of the Partnership for Theological Education in Manchester. A Catholic, Professor O'Connell has written on a wide range of subjects, including politics, theology, ethics and education. He is welcomed as a visiting professor in many parts of the world and has published articles on international, Middle Eastern and Nigerian politics as well as on human rights. His talk promises to be lively and informative. The talk starts at 6.30pm in room B202 on the 2nd floor of the Bloomsbury Suite of the Brunei Gallery at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, London, WC1. Admission is free but places need to be reserved. To book your place, please email finola@ciir.org or call her on 020 288 8619.