On the occasion of the International Labor Day, May Day, I offer my warmest greetings to all workers in Kurdistan, their unions and organizations. I wish all workers in Iraq and around the world a happy Labor Day celebration, in peace and joy. I recognize, value and honor their contributions.

As an influential and significant part of our society, workers have greatly contributed not only to the reconstruction and development of Kurdistan, but they have also made great sacrifices to protect and defend the country as devoted peshmargas.

It must be stressed that the livelihood and rights of all workers must be fully protected. Labor unions and organizations should be more active to better safeguard workers’ entitlements and promote acceptable conditions of labor with respect to minimum wages, hours of work, and occupational safety and health.

As we celebrate the May Day of 2022, we reaffirm our commitment to continue supporting the rights and demands of workers. The institutions and relevant authorities of the Kurdistan Region have a duty to protect and promote workers’ rights to a decent standard of living, and to fully support families who have lost their loved ones in work-related incidents.

Nechirvan Barzani
The President of the Kurdistan Region