The heartbreaking tragedy of Alan Kurdi—the young Kurdish boy who lost his life on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea in 2015, whose image shook the conscience of the world—has once again become the inspiration for a remarkable work of art that has captured attention across Europe. This time, a young Kurdish artist from Western Kurdistan (Rojava) has made history by creating a painting in Alan Kurdi’s memory, earning Germany’s highest national award in the process.
Idris Qasim, a secondary school student originally from the city of Afrin who now lives in Germany with his family, decided to participate in a major art competition held across Europe. Among hundreds of entries, Idris’s painting—powerfully portraying the suffering of refugees and commemorating the death of Alan Kurdi—won Germany’s 2026 Federal Award, the country’s highest honour in this field. He also received a special regional award, becoming the first student in his school’s history to receive such a prestigious distinction.
Idris’s achievement extended far beyond winning an award. It opened the door for him to engage directly with Germany’s political leadership and decision-makers. The award ceremony took place in Berlin at the German Chancellery, where Idris received a warm welcome from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
The ceremony was especially distinguished and held in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Among the distinguished guests was the President of Senegal. In addition to exhibiting his award-winning painting, Idris and the other successful young participants were given the opportunity to engage in open discussions with German leaders on sensitive global political issues. Their conversations even explored the impact of Donald Trump’s policies on the United States, as well as the future of Germany and Europe.
Idris’s remarkable accomplishment demonstrates how a young Kurdish artist has been able to use the language of colour and art to give voice to his people and bring their untold stories to the highest levels of political leadership in Europe.