Chaldean Patriarch Calls for Civil State in Iraq, Criticizes Sectarian Politics and Religious Misuse

Cardinal Louis Raphaël I Sako, Patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church, expressed concerns about the role of religion in Iraqi politics during an interview on Rudaw Network in December 2020. He called for a civil state in Iraq, emphasizing that religion and politics should remain separate. According to the patriarch, religion is grounded in principles and truth, while politics is driven by interests and, at times, falsehoods. He argued that bringing religion into political matters corrupts its true values.

The patriarch highlighted the politicization of religion, noting that many actions in Iraq are justified under the guise of religious authority. He criticized the distortion of religious teachings, particularly within educational systems, which he claimed contain language that offends other faiths. Cardinal Sako stressed that religion should be rooted in love, mercy, and tolerance, and that such values are often undermined by harmful religious discourse.

He also addressed the perception of Christians in Iraq, stating that they are often viewed as a secondary or tertiary religion. Despite this, he affirmed the respect Christians have for Islam and called for mutual respect and dialogue between all faiths. The patriarch noted that the Quran promotes religious freedom and coexistence, yet he observed the presence of takfiri ideologies and hate speech directed against Christians.

Cardinal Sako mentioned the establishment of a dialogue committee comprising Christians, Sunni, and Shi’ite Muslims to address and counteract the spread of divisive religious rhetoric. This initiative reflects the Chaldean Catholic Church’s commitment to fostering interfaith understanding and promoting a more accurate representation of religious teachings. The patriarch’s statements underscore the church’s role in advocating for a society based on justice, mercy, and peaceful coexistence.

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