Omar Mohammed
Omar Mohammed is a historian from Mosul, Iraq, known until recently only as the anonymous blogger ‘Mosul Eye’. Through Mosul Eye, Omar set out to inform the world about life under the Islamic State in his city. He is the host of the podcast series Mosul and the Islamic State, which tells untold stories from inside the Islamic State’s reign of terror, the pursuit of justice in its aftermath, and the enduring struggle of the people of Mosul for a better future.
Omar is currently teaching Middle East History and Cultural Heritage Diplomacy at Sciences Po University, Paris. His focus has now shifted to the advocacy of social initiatives for the people of Mosul, including the international effort to re-supply the Central Library of the University of Mosul. At the intersection of media, academia, and civil society, Omar is motivated to develop new networks of collaboration and innovations in humanitarian action. As a historian and lecturer at the University of Mosul, he focuses his scholarly work on conceptual history and research dealing with local historiographies and narratives, micro-histories, and Orientalism.
Omar is a regular media commentator on Iraq, has an MA in Middle East History from the University of Mosul, and was named 2013 Researcher of the Year by Iraq’s Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. His doctoral research explores history and historians in the 19th and 20th century Mosul. He now lives in exile in Europe.
Speaker's corner
I had a good experience during my visit to the European Union through the EUVP program. I was able to access the space of policy-making and learn about the inner workings of the EU, one of the world's most important political organizations. This was a valuable experience for me, especially as someone coming from Mosul, as it allowed me to expand my network of support for the recovery of my home city.
Thanks to my visit, I was able to build relationships with EU officials and other key players in the European political landscape. These connections will be valuable in helping me access resources and expertise that can support the recovery efforts in Mosul.
Overall, I found my EUVP visit to be a valuable and informative experience that allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the EU and its policies. I was able to make the most of this opportunity and come away with a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be valuable in my future endeavors.
Participation in the EUVP can be a valuable experience for a young leader's career development, as it provides an opportunity to learn about the EU and its policies first hand, as well as make connections with key players in the European political landscape.
Through my EUVP visit, I was able to gain a deeper understanding of the EU and its role in international relations, which will be useful in a variety of career paths, including those in government, diplomacy, international relations, and public policy. I also had the opportunity to meet with EU officials and learn about the EU's decision-making processes and policies, which will be valuable knowledge as I pursue a career in these fields.
In addition, my EUVP visit allowed me to build relationships with EU officials and other key players in the European political landscape, which can be beneficial for career advancement. These connections may help me access resources and expertise that can support my career goals and provide me with valuable networking opportunities in the future.
Overall, my EUVP experience has meant a great deal for my career, as it has provided me with valuable knowledge and experience, as well as opportunities to build important relationships that will be valuable as I continue to pursue my career goals.
One of the key challenges in today's fast-changing world is the need to adapt and change in order to protect our future. This can be especially challenging in a current position, as it may require balancing the need for change with the need to meet current demands and responsibilities.
Another challenge in today's world is finding ways to make a positive impact and contribute to the improvement of society. This may involve identifying and addressing pressing issues, such as environmental sustainability, social justice, or economic inequality, and finding creative solutions that address these challenges.
Overall, staying informed and adapting to the changing needs of society can be a significant challenge for anyone in a given position, whether in the private or public sector. It requires a combination of creativity, flexibility, and resilience, as well as a willingness to take risks and think outside the box.
As the founder of Mosul Eye, I have learned the importance of determination and perseverance in the face of adversity. Despite the danger and risks I faced, I refused to be silenced and remained committed to documenting the truth and seeking justice. I hope that my story can serve as an inspiration to future and young leaders, reminding them of the power of dedication and bravery in the pursuit of what is right.
One of my greatest achievements has been the ability to bring climate action to Mosul, despite the significant destruction that the city has suffered. I have been able to run the Green Mosul Project, which has helped to address environmental sustainability in the city and make a positive impact on the community. This achievement demonstrates my dedication to making a difference and my ability to overcome significant challenges in order to achieve my goals. It also showcases my leadership skills and my ability to bring people together to work towards a common cause.
Overall, my ability to bring climate action to Mosul despite the difficult circumstances is a significant achievement that I am proud of. It is a testament to my determination and my commitment to making a positive impact in my community.
As someone who has been able to bring about positive change in my own community, I would say to young leaders trying to shape their communities and societies for the better : “stay focused on your goals and never give up”. It can be challenging to bring about change, but with determination and perseverance, it is possible to make a positive impact.
I would also recommend building strong relationships with key stakeholders, such as community leaders, government officials and other influential individuals. These relationships can provide valuable support and resources as you work to bring about change in your community.
Additionally, I would encourage young leaders to stay informed about current events and trends in their field, as this can help you make well informed decisions and stay ahead of the curve. Finally, don't be afraid to seek out mentors or advisors who can provide guidance and support as you work to make a positive impact in your community or society.
The interview took place in December 2022
The opinions expressed by the EUVP distinguished Alumni on the Wall of Fame do not necessarily reflect the official EU position.