At a landmark youth congress, President Masoud Barzani called out Baghdad’s policies and urged stronger Kurdish unity, reform, and federal recognition.
President Masoud Barzani delivered a powerful and wide-ranging address during the unification congress of the Democratic Union of Kurdistan Students and the Democratic Union of Kurdistan Youth, issuing some of his strongest warnings yet to Baghdad while calling for renewed unity, dignity, and responsibility among Kurdish youth. The congress, held on May 15, 2025, marked the formal merging of the two organizations under a new name: Democratic Union of Kurdistan Students and Youth.
Attended by senior party leadership, including Deputy President of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Masrour Barzani, the congress served not only as a moment of institutional restructuring but also as a platform for President Barzani to lay bare his growing frustration with the central government in Baghdad.
“Expected Iraqi leaders to defend Kurdish rights despite our absence”
In his address, President Barzani criticized Baghdad’s policies toward the Kurdistan Region, asserting that Kurdish rights are increasingly being obstructed, not safeguarded. “I thought that even in our absence, they would defend Kurdish rights, because we have shared a lot of values together,” he said. “They must stop treating our people like strangers who survived genocide, chemical attacks, and the destruction of 4,500 villages.”
He called on the Iraqi government to formally acknowledge the Anfal genocide and chemical bombings that targeted Kurdish communities, stressing that such recognition is not a political favor, but a constitutional obligation. “Until these crimes are recognized and atoned for, the people of Kurdistan will continue to be denied justice,” he warned.
Barzani was uncompromising in tone: “If we are not part of Iraq, then say so. And if we are part of Iraq, stop this unjust game with the livelihood of our people.”
A clear stance on federalism and Iraq’s stability
Returning to the theme of federalism, President Barzani issued a sharp warning to Baghdad: “The current approach is not federalism. If they no longer believe in federalism, they should say it openly, so everyone knows where they stand.”
He emphasized that the October 2024 elections had been legitimate and reflected the will of the Kurdish people. Undermining their results, he argued, was tantamount to violating the Iraqi constitution.
Barzani urged a return to the post-2003 principles of partnership, balance, and consensus. “If these foundations are abandoned, Iraq will not remain stable. The Kurds are not asking for privilege—they are asking for constitutional rights.”
Defending the rights of civil servants
Addressing one of the most pressing grievances in the Kurdistan Region, Barzani denounced Baghdad’s handling of civil servant salaries. “This repeated mistreatment of our employees’ wages is an insult to the blood of our martyrs and the long struggle of our people,” he said.
He accused Baghdad of sending “only scraps” of the Region’s share of the federal budget. “Even during past regimes, Kurds were acknowledged and paid something. Now, our dignity is being stripped—and some of this is enabled by internal factions who remain silent.”
Barzani made it clear: “Our people did not rise up for salaries, but if you cannot provide them, what value does your authority even have?”
The next KRG government will not be 50/50
In discussing the formation of the next Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), President Barzani dismissed the idea of another 50/50 coalition, signaling a firmer political stance. “We have invited all parties who won seats to participate. Some have chosen opposition, and we respect that,” he said.
He reiterated that the KDP remains the leading political force in the Region, securing over a million votes including Kirkuk and Nineveh. “The election results speak for themselves. We gained more seats than before. We must now form a broad-based government grounded in mandate, not compromise.”
Youth, women, and the power of unity
While addressing the congress of the newly unified student and youth organization, Barzani expressed hope and pride in the next generation. “This unification will make your responsibilities easier and your mission more impactful. There will be one voice, one vision, and united strength,” he said.
He praised the rising participation of women in both the youth and student movements, stating: “I was pleased to learn that the percentage of female members has grown. This must also be reflected within the party. It’s a source of pride, and I urge you to go further.”
Barzani also highlighted the historical role of youth in the Aylul and Gulan struggles, as well as in the war against ISIS. “Your generation will carry forward that legacy—more effectively than ever.”
President Barzani’s message to the new leadership
On the occasion of the election of 11 new members to the Secretariat of the Democratic Union of Kurdistan Students and Youth—including Secretary Shvan Mahmood, known as Shvan Kurdistani—President Barzani issued a message of congratulations and encouragement.
He stated: “I hope that the outcomes of your congress will lead to a stronger organizational structure and greater service to the aspirations of Kurdistan’s students and youth.”
Barzani reaffirmed his support for the group’s programs and aspirations: “We expect you to serve this country with a spirit of national dignity, knowledge, commitment, and innovation.”
Deputy KDP President Masrour Barzani echoes the message
Deputy KDP President Masrour Barzani also extended congratulations to the new leadership, emphasizing the organization’s proud legacy in defending student and youth rights. He called on the union to move forward with greater innovation and responsibility.
“This is a new phase. Let it be defined by scientific thinking and practical solutions,” he said. “As always, remain defenders of national principles, constitutional gains, and the democratic framework of the Kurdistan Region.”
Support for peace processes in the region
Beyond internal politics, President Barzani touched on peace initiatives in the region, notably in Turkey and Rojava. On the Turkish peace process, he observed a new development: “This time, both ruling and opposition parties are supporting peace. That makes it different from before.”
He emphasized that choosing war when peaceful paths exist is a betrayal. “We support any genuine peace process with all our power, and I hope this one succeeds,” he said.
Barzani also urged Kurdish political actors in Rojava to unify their positions and engage with Damascus through dialogue, not conflict.
A new war: against disillusionment
President Barzani closed his address with a sobering reflection on the modern threats facing Kurdistan—not from tanks or bombs, but from hopelessness and mental sabotage.
“Today’s war is more dangerous. It is a war of disillusionment, of spreading destructive thoughts, and breaking the confidence of our youth,” he said. “This war aims to strip Kurds of their identity and belief in themselves.”
He urged students and youth organizations to educate their peers, steer them away from harmful behaviors like drug abuse, and protect the social fabric of the nation. “Those using drugs are victims. But those profiting from their destruction are criminals—and must be held accountable.”
The Kurdish Globe