KNK: Protecting Kurdish Language is national, human duty

The Language, Culture and Education Committee of the Kurdistan National Congress (KNK) released a statement marking International Mother Language Day, observed annually on February 21.

The statement said:

“Language is not merely a means of communication; it is a treasure of culture, history, identity, and thought for every nation. Protecting and strengthening the mother tongue is a fundamental duty for every individual and community to ensure its survival. When a language is not preserved and is neglected, it dies — and with it, the history and culture of that people.”

“Protecting Language Is Not an Academic Matter, but a National and Existential One”

The KNK stated:

“For us Kurds, the Kurdish language (in all its dialects) is the fundamental pillar of the Kurdish nation. Therefore, preserving the language is not just an academic issue; it is a national and existential matter. The main purpose of this day is not only celebration, but also to convey several important messages:

Preserving cultural diversity, meaning that every people’s language should serve as a window through which they see their identity, understand the world, and express their vision.

Emphasizing, defending, and encouraging education in the mother tongue, as it strengthens individuals and helps build their character.

Recognizing different groups, peoples, and nations, and promoting mutual respect among them.”

“Speaking the Dominant Language at Home Threatens Kurdish with Extinction”

The statement emphasized that the Kurdish language remains threatened with extinction, noting:

“Although it is widely spoken, especially in northern and eastern regions of the country, the danger lies in its limited use as a mother tongue in daily life within families and society, where the dominant language is often used instead. More dangerously, the Kurdish language has not secured its proper place in the educational process.

Throughout their national struggle, Kurds have given great importance to language as a field and trench of protection and survival. This field requires further strengthening and support to ensure the continued existence of the Kurdish people as a living nation rooted in their authentic identity.”

The Status of the Kurdish Language Across Kurdistan

On the situation of the Kurdish language throughout Kurdistan and beyond, the statement assessed:

“In Southern Kurdistan, official institutions have existed for some time, and Kurdish is recognized in the Iraqi Constitution. However, due to the absence of a coherent language policy and structured plan, the status of the Kurdish language remains difficult and faces many obstacles. The Kurdistan Regional Government must seriously and effectively remove these obstacles and institutionalize language and education channels.

It must also monitor the declining level of Kurdish used in official and party-affiliated media in South Kurdistan and address this accordingly.

Today, Rojava Kurdistan faces a sensitive situation amid changes in Syria. With its strong will, particularly in national defense and resistance, and years of experience in self-administration, political, social, cultural, and national issues — including language and education — should be enshrined in a permanent constitution, making Kurdish the official language of administration and education in Rojava.

In the other parts of Kurdistan, in addition to Kurdish being absent from the educational system, it faces serious threats from religion, sectarianism, gender discrimination, racism, as well as the nation-state system and occupation.

Dialect diversity — The various dialects of the Kurdish language reflect its richness and authenticity. Therefore, the Kurdish language in all its dialects must be given due importance, protected, and taught within the educational system, each in its appropriate context and region.

Outside the homeland, where large Kurdish communities live, generations have blended with the culture and language of their host countries and often carry two mother tongues in their identities. They must preserve, develop, and protect their beautiful Kurdish language from disappearance.”

“Using and Developing Kurdish Is a Human and National Duty”

In conclusion, the KNK congratulated Kurds and people of Kurdistan on International Mother Language Day, February 21, stating:

“This day each year represents an opportunity to continue working and struggling to draw the attention of the international community and specialized organizations concerned with language and culture to the threats, pressure, and repression practiced by the occupiers of Kurdistan against the Kurdish language and the languages of other components of Kurdistan.”

ANHA