Protests call for parity with federal government
Disabled landmine veteran advocates for equal disability benefits in Kurdistan
SULAYMANIYAH – Rahman Abdulkarim, a landmine clearance expert disabled since 2011, has devoted 19 years to removing unexploded ordnance across the Kurdistan Region. Despite his sacrifices, Abdulkarim struggles with severe disabilities and champions equal disability benefits for his region comparable to the rest of Iraq.
In an interview with 964media, Abdulkarim shared the hardships he faces, including supporting his family of seven on a meager monthly benefit. “Previously, I could work and provide for my family. Now, our lives are very hard,” he said, reflecting the drastic change in his circumstances since the accident.
Abdulkarim was gravely injured by a landmine in 2011 while clearing a site near Sulaymaniyah’s Sharbazher area, resulting in the loss of his hands, eyes, and one leg. “Without your eyes, you can’t do anything,” he lamented, underscoring the profound impact of his injuries.
The Kurdistan Region, scarred by years of conflict including the Iran-Iraq War and skirmishes with the former Iraqi Baathist regime, remains heavily mined. According to the Kurdistan Mine Action Agency, around 258 square kilometers are still contaminated despite clearance efforts since 1992.
People with disabilities in Sulaymaniyah, including Abdulkarim, are pressing for increased government benefits, aligning with those in other Iraqi governorates. Currently, disabled individuals unable to work in the Kurdistan Region receive only 150,000 IQD ($115) monthly, significantly less than the 250,000 IQD ($191) standard in regions under federal administration.
This year, Sulaymaniyah has seen multiple protests demanding equitable treatment and increased support for people with disabilities.
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