On May 1, 2025, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) declared a public holiday to mark International Workers’ Day, reaffirming its recognition of laborers’ essential role in society. Across the Kurdistan Region, the day was commemorated through a variety of activities and slogans that emphasized workers’ rights, with growing attention being paid each year to labor-related issues.
Recent labor statistics from the Kurdistan Workers’ Syndicates Union reveal notable developments in the region’s workforce. Hangaw Abdullah, President of the Union, stated that over 194,000 workers are currently registered with the General Directorate of Social Security. Among them are 134,000 domestic male workers and 30,000 domestic female workers, reflecting a significant rise in female labor force participation.
The foreign labor force in the region also remains substantial, with 23,000 male and 4,900 female foreign workers currently employed. In addition, 958 private sector workers have officially retired, according to the union’s records.
Abdullah emphasized the importance of observing International Workers’ Day as a day of rest and recognition, stating, “No worker should be required to perform duties on this holiday. It is a day to renew our commitment to labor rights and to promote initiatives that improve workers’ lives.”
In line with this commitment, the Executive Office of the Kurdistan Workers’ Syndicates Union has submitted a proposal to the Council of Ministers, calling for approval of key support measures aimed at enhancing workers’ welfare. These include access to residential land, housing loans, and marriage assistance—steps the union believes will provide lasting benefits to the region’s workforce.
