abcnews.go.com
Rebuilt Mosul Minaret Symbolizes City's Recovery
The Al-Hadbaa Minaret of Mosul's Great Mosque of al-Nuri, destroyed by ISIS in 2017, has been rebuilt as part of a $115 million UNESCO-led project funded by the UAE and EU, using traditional techniques and salvaged materials; the reopening is expected in the coming weeks.
- What is the significance of the Al-Hadbaa Minaret's reconstruction in Mosul, and what immediate impacts does it have on the city?
- The 850-year-old Al-Hadbaa Minaret in Mosul, Iraq, destroyed by ISIS in 2017, has been rebuilt using traditional techniques and salvaged materials. The $115 million reconstruction, funded internationally, is deeply symbolic for Mosul residents and represents a significant step in the city's recovery. This project included the restoration of Christian sites as well.
- How did the international community contribute to the reconstruction of Mosul's historical sites, and what broader implications does this have for post-conflict recovery?
- The minaret's reconstruction is part of a larger effort to restore Mosul's Old City, 80% of which was destroyed. This UNESCO-led initiative, funded by the UAE and EU among others, aims not only to rebuild physical structures but also to revive the city's pluralistic identity. The project's success offers a model for post-conflict reconstruction in other areas.
- What are the long-term implications of this reconstruction project for the future of Mosul, and how might this model influence post-conflict reconstruction efforts in other war-torn regions?
- The successful restoration of Mosul's Al-Hadbaa Minaret and other religious sites demonstrates the potential for rebuilding war-torn cities and fostering reconciliation. This project's impact extends beyond the physical reconstruction, serving as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience for Mosul's diverse population and potentially influencing future post-conflict reconstruction efforts in places like Syria. The return of Christian families, though still limited, signals a tentative step towards restoring the city's pre-conflict demographic balance.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative frames the reconstruction of the minaret as a powerful symbol of Mosul's recovery and resilience. This is evident from the opening paragraphs, which emphasize the minaret's historical significance and the emotional impact of its destruction and subsequent rebuilding. The extensive quotes from officials involved in the reconstruction further reinforce this perspective. While the suffering of the people is acknowledged, the focus remains predominantly on the physical restoration.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. However, words like "powerful message" and "beautiful start" in Azoulay's quotes could be considered slightly subjective. Overall, the language remains largely free from bias, using descriptive and neutral terms.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the reconstruction of the minaret and the efforts of UNESCO and other international organizations. While it mentions the plight of Mosul's Christian population, the level of detail is significantly less than that given to the minaret's restoration. The article also omits discussion of the challenges faced by other religious or ethnic minorities in Mosul, potentially creating an incomplete picture of the city's recovery. The overall narrative may unintentionally downplay the complex social and political issues facing Mosul beyond the physical reconstruction.
False Dichotomy
The article doesn't explicitly present false dichotomies, but the overwhelming focus on the physical reconstruction of the minaret could implicitly suggest that this is the sole or primary indicator of Mosul's recovery. This overlooks the broader social, economic, and political challenges that continue to affect the city.
Sustainable Development Goals
The reconstruction of the Al-Hadbaa Minaret and other historical sites in Mosul contributes to peacebuilding and reconciliation in a post-conflict environment. The project fosters social cohesion by bringing together different religious communities in a shared effort to rebuild their city. The return of cultural heritage helps restore a sense of identity and belonging for residents, promoting stability and reducing the risk of future conflict. The international collaboration involved in the project also strengthens institutions and promotes cooperation for common goals.