On the occasion of Newroz 2026, President Masoud Barzani delivered a comprehensive video address to the thousands of Kurds gathered in Bonn for the large-scale celebration organized by the Kurdistani Diaspora Confederation (KDC).
Below is the detailed message of President Barzani to the Kurdish people in the diaspora:
The Significance of Newroz
President Barzani began by emphasizing that Newroz is far more than a seasonal celebration or a mark on the calendar. For over 2,700 years, the spirit of Newroz has embodied resistance and hope. He described the holiday as “a symbol of freedom and revival” and “a flame of self-confidence, freedom, and resilience in the heart of every Kurd.”
He stated firmly: “The Kurdish people have never surrendered their legitimate rights.”
A Message to the Diaspora
President Barzani spoke directly to the Kurds living abroad, acknowledging the dual identity of those who have settled in Europe. He noted that while European countries have become a second home for Kurds from all four parts of Kurdistan, he remained confident in their loyalty: “I am certain your hearts remain with the soil and the homeland.”
He issued a vital call to action for the diaspora to remain guardians of their heritage:
“Do not let your children become detached from their language and culture. Kurds abroad should act as ambassadors of their nation and reflect its values.”
Regional Stability and Western Kurdistan
Addressing the broader geopolitical landscape, the President expressed relief regarding developments in Western Kurdistan (Northern Syria), stating he was grateful the region had been spared from further catastrophe and instability. He voiced his hope that the rights and legitimate demands of Kurds in Syria would be respected.
Furthermore, he reaffirmed his support for ongoing peace efforts in Türkiye, stressing that any resolution should serve all sides and contribute to long-term stability through inclusive political solutions.
Navigating a Changing World
President Barzani warned that the world is currently undergoing profound transformations, with the Middle East specifically facing continuous conflict and turbulence.
“At a time when the world is full of major changes and our region is passing through war and turmoil, the message of the Kurdish people has always been peace and stability,” he said. He detailed the efforts made by the Kurdistan Region to avoid entanglement in regional conflicts, expressing his hope that Kurds in Eastern Kurdistan (Rojhelat), as well as those in the Kurdistan Region, would remain protected from the devastation of war and unrest.
Global Unity and Identity
The President highlighted the growing global attention on the Kurdish cause, calling for a unified front among Kurds worldwide. He stated that geographic boundaries do not change the core identity of the people:
“Wherever we may be—whether in Kurdistan, Europe, America, or elsewhere—one message unites us: the identity of Kurdish-being and the love for freedom.”
Closing Remarks
In conclusion, President Barzani congratulated the attendees on Newroz and called for even stronger solidarity within the diaspora. He expressed deep optimism for the future, stating that the combination of unity, resilience, and international engagement would play a decisive role in advancing the legitimate Kurdish cause on the global stage.
Following the address, President Barzani underscored the importance of the event on his official X account, stating:
“The large gathering of Kurds in the city of Bonn on the occasion of the national Newroz holiday is a clear message to all those concerned.”