President Nechirvan Barzani on Sunday reiterated the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to protecting ethnic and religious communities. He made these remarks during a meeting with Assyrian representatives from Iraq, the Kurdistan Region, and the United States.
According to a statement from the Kurdistan Region Presidency, President Barzani welcomed the delegation led by Sam Darmo, head of the Foundation of Assyrians for Justice. The group included notable Assyrian figures from Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
Furthermore, President Barzani praised the Assyrian community for their valuable contributions and cooperation across many sectors in the Kurdistan Region. He emphasized that the Kurdistan Region’s commitment focuses on safeguarding all communities.
Meanwhile, the delegation expressed gratitude for the region’s harmonious coexistence and mutual respect. They highlighted the ongoing support and cooperation since 2003, calling the Kurdistan Region a safe haven for Assyrians and other minorities.
In addition, the meeting covered the current situation of Assyrians and other minority groups, especially in the Kurdistan Region. The discussion reflected concerns about their security and wellbeing.
Since 2003, the Kurdistan Region has served as a refuge for many ethnic and religious minorities. This stability comes amid broader violence and sectarian conflicts in Iraq.
Moreover, the Region’s political system has long made efforts to include minorities. It reserves seats in the Kurdish legislature for groups like Assyrians, Chaldean and Syriac Christians, Turkmen, and Armenians. This system ensures minorities have a political voice.
Significantly, in 2014, ISIS launched a brutal offensive, capturing large areas in northern and western Iraq. They persecuted many minorities, forcing hundreds of thousands to flee. Many settled in the Kurdistan Region’s Erbil and Duhok provinces.
Currently, the United Nations and the International Organization for Migration estimate 103,000 to 109,000 internally displaced persons remain in camps within the Kurdistan Region. Most IDPs live outside camps, settling in urban areas throughout the Region.
Ultimately, President Barzani’s remarks underscore the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to protecting its diverse communities and maintaining regional stability.
