Young Kurds embrace Clubhouse as a platform for open discussion

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The Kurdistan Region’s youth have flocked to a new social media platform on which they can exchange ideas on a variety of topics, mainly the social issues and barriers they face in society. Clubhouse, an audio-based, invitation-only app, recently took off in popularity around the world, particularly in the Middle East and the Kurdistan Region, where users can speak freely about subjects that concern them. Available only on Apple’s iOS platform to people with a referral link, it nonetheless boasts about 10 million users worldwide and allows thousands to spontaneously join an audio conversation in virtual “rooms” or through planned events and clubs. Kurdish users on the platform are mainly concerned with social justice, including rights for the LGBTQ+ community and gender equality, but also the environment and animal rights. “There have been many discussions on gender equality, LGBTQ rights, [social media] influencers’ roles, NGOs, and activism,” said Shko Shwan, a Fulbright Student studying for a Masters in Educational Technology. “The sole purpose of these talks is to socialize with each other, listen to other people’s opinions, and reach common ground,” according to the 29-year old, who co-hosts weekly discussions on the app from his home…
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