Kurdish leaders in the Kurdistan Region marked International Women’s Day, praising Kurdish women for their contributions and reaffirming commitment to gender equality. The leaders highlighted the sacrifices women have made throughout history and stressed the importance of protecting their rights.
Statements from Kurdish leaders
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani congratulated Kurdish women and women worldwide, emphasising support for their rights. On X, he wrote:
“I value the struggle, perseverance, and vital role of the women of Kurdistan, and I reaffirm my support for their legitimate demands and rights. Advancing equality is essential to our progress.”
President Masoud Barzani also highlighted women’s sacrifices, calling them fundamental to the Kurdish struggle.
“I have deep respect for the role and sacrifices of the women of Kurdistan, who have always been a fundamental part of the struggle and resilience of our people,” he said.
President Nechirvan Barzani added that protecting women’s rights is a shared responsibility across government and society. He paid tribute to victims of violence, stating:
“Salutes to the pure spirits of all those women who became victims of violence may their memory always be cherished.”
Ongoing challenges for women
Kurdish women have historically played a vital role, including participating in liberation movements across Greater Kurdistan. The Kurdistan Region parliament passed the Combating Domestic Violence Law in 2011 and introduced a support hotline for victims in 2018.
Despite these measures, gender-based violence remains a serious issue. Domestic violence, sexual assault, and honour killings are widespread but often underreported due to social stigma and concerns about “family honor.”
In November 2024, Prime Minister Barzani mandated the exclusion of femicide perpetrators from general amnesties, signalling a tougher stance on violence against women.
