Prime Minister Masrour Barzani emphasized the powerful role of the Kurdish diaspora in promoting the Kurdish cause and defending the rights of the Kurdish people. He made these remarks while meeting with a delegation of 100 young Kurds from Europe, joined by several international participants.
Barzani praised the efforts of the diaspora for their continued advocacy abroad. He encouraged Kurdish youth to maintain their language, culture, and national identity while building bridges between their host countries and the Kurdistan Region. He also urged them to serve as role models, pursue education, and develop their professional skills to contribute to both their communities abroad and Kurdistan’s progress.
During the meeting, Barzani discussed the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) ongoing reform programs. He explained that the KRG continues to improve economic infrastructure, attract foreign investment, and create a sustainable and prosperous future for the region.
The Kurdish diaspora, estimated between 1.2 and 1.5 million people, plays a major role in raising global awareness about Kurdish rights. Large Kurdish communities live in Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Sweden. Germany hosts the largest number, with estimates reaching up to one million Kurds.
Outside Europe, Kurdish communities are also thriving. In the United States, Nashville’s “Little Kurdistan” has become home to nearly 20,000 Kurds. This community, which began with refugees in the 1970s, now thrives with Kurdish-run businesses and cultural centers.
Barzani reaffirmed his government’s commitment to connecting with the diaspora. Recently, the KRG launched the fourth edition of its online Kurdish language course, attracting 2,500 students from 42 countries across Europe and Asia. This initiative highlights the government’s dedication to preserving Kurdish identity globally and strengthening cultural ties.