I extend my warmest congratulations to all women in Kurdistan, Iraq, and around the world on International Women’s Day, the 8th of March. It is with unwavering support that I commend their relentless dedication towards achieving gender equality and empowering women. May their journey be filled with continuous progress and success.

On this significant occasion, let us honor the courageous women who have bravely fought to safeguard and defend their rights, as well as those who have been subjected to violence, extremism, and regressive ideologies. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to opposing any form of oppression, violence, harassment, or injustice against women.

While we witness with optimism the increasing capabilities and involvement of women in all aspects of life in Kurdistan, we cannot overstate our wish for more progress. Our dedication to ensuring greater roles, opportunities, and empowerment for women remains steadfast. We encourage political parties to strengthen their commitment to supporting the nomination of women in the upcoming elections.

A society that is free, civilized, peaceful, and prosperous, and that nurtures a capable and righteous generation, cannot be achieved without the principles of women’s rights, freedom and equality. It is therefore the responsibility of each and every one of us, at all levels of society, to support women’s struggle with unwavering faith and understanding, standing by their side until victory is achieved.

I wish everyone a happy 8th of March.

Nechirvan Barzani
President of the Kurdistan Region