Real Kurdistan, as Seen by Iraq's 'Lone Tourist'
From my travels, I learned from government officials and average citizens that Kurdistan is "surrounded by enemies." The reason is clear to all who visit: Kurdistan is striving to be open and tolerant. Kurdistan established a plurality of media, freedom of expression, embraced ideals of democracy, equality and human rights as early as 1992, and for that they are feared by their neighbours.
As I walked the streets and travelled the highways, Kurdistan's commitment to counterterrorism was clear and ever present. The peshmerga patrol the cities, the villages, and man the highway checkpoints in a constant effort to maintain the security the rest of Iraq does not enjoy. At no time during my stay in Kurdistan was I fearful. I actually had to remind myself that I was visiting Iraq...
Full story: http://www.embassymag.ca/page/view/letter3-11-6-2008
