The International Conference on The Ezidis: Religion, Heritage, History, and Geography (ERHHG-2025) is dedicated to exploring a range of interconnected themes that encompass the complex religious, cultural, and historical aspects of the Ezidi community. These themes aim to bring depth and diversity to the study of the Ezidi people and provide a comprehensive view of their enduring heritage and the challenges they face today. Each theme has been carefully chosen to encourage interdisciplinary approaches and to foster a global conversation on the Ezidis’ unique identity, historical trajectory, and geopolitical significance.

1. Ezidi Religion

This theme delves into the spiritual core of the Ezidi community, focusing on their unique religious beliefs, sacred texts, and practices. Topics will include the origins and foundations of the Ezidi faith, which draws from ancient Middle Eastern traditions, the veneration of figures such as the Peacock Angel (Melek Taus), and significant religious observances like the Jam festival and the Feast of Lam. This theme also examines the challenges in studying and documenting Ezidi religious practices, which have historically been misinterpreted or stigmatized. By understanding the Ezidis’ distinctive spiritual worldview, scholars can highlight the resilience and adaptability of Ezidi religious identity.

2. Historical and Political Perspectives

Ezidi history has been shaped by resilience in the face of centuries of persecution, forced migration, and political marginalization. This theme explores the rich historical narrative of the Ezidi people, from ancient origins through the Ottoman era’s violent campaigns to contemporary issues such as displacement and migration. Key topics include Ezidi political participation in Iraq and the Kurdistan region, the roles of Ezidis in the diaspora, and how these communities continue to fight for recognition and rights. Additionally, this theme addresses modern identity challenges, including movements to redefine Ezidi identity apart from Kurdish or Arab affiliations. By exploring these aspects, the conference seeks to contextualize the Ezidi struggle for autonomy, survival, and recognition.

3. Geography and Geopolitical Significance

The Ezidis’ historical homeland spans significant geopolitical locations, particularly the region of Sinjar. This theme addresses the geographical distribution of Ezidi populations and examines the geopolitical forces that shape these regions. Topics include the role of Sinjar as a strategic location in regional conflicts, its socio-political importance, and the environmental and geographical characteristics that influence the life and culture of Ezidi communities. By investigating these dynamics, the conference aims to reveal the impact of external forces on Ezidi communities and highlight the crucial role of geography in understanding their identity and struggles.

4. Economic Development and Sustainability

Economic stability has been a longstanding challenge for the Ezidi community, particularly given their historical marginalization and displacement. This theme examines the economic activities of Ezidi regions, including traditional agriculture, commerce, and developing industries. Topics include the impact of modern policies on the economic resilience of Ezidi communities, the challenges they face in achieving economic sustainability, and innovative approaches to support Ezidi livelihood and economic empowerment. Through this theme, the conference aims to explore strategies that could foster economic growth and self-sufficiency within Ezidi regions, promoting a pathway for community rebuilding and long-term resilience.

5. Literature, Heritage, and Folklore

Ezidi culture is rich with oral traditions, folklore, and religious literature that have been preserved over centuries. This theme focuses on documenting and understanding Ezidi storytelling, songs, religious texts, and rituals, as well as examining efforts to preserve these cultural elements against the threats of globalization and cultural erasure. Topics include the symbolism within Ezidi folklore, the roles of sacred narratives, and how these traditions serve as a means of cultural resilience and identity reinforcement. This theme also emphasizes the importance of preserving and digitizing Ezidi literature and folklore to ensure their survival for future generations. By showcasing Ezidi heritage, the conference will contribute to a broader understanding of the cultural fabric of Kurdistan and the Middle East.

These themes provide a holistic framework for understanding the Ezidi community and encourage participants to engage in comprehensive discussions that bridge historical, religious, political, and cultural perspectives. Through these explorations, the conference aims to foster an informed and empathetic understanding of the Ezidis, promote academic research, and inspire actionable strategies for the protection and empowerment of this historically marginalized community.