First issue of Kurdistan newspaper, published by Mikdad Midhat Bedir Khan in Cairo on April 22, 1898.
Anniversary of first Kurdish newspaper
Iraqi and Kurdish officials congratulate press on Kurdish Journalism Day
NEWSROOM — Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid and senior officials from the Kurdistan Region issued statements Tuesday congratulating journalists on Kurdish Journalism Day and the 127th anniversary of the first issue of the Kurdistan newspaper. The occasion also marked 27 years since the founding of the Kurdistan Journalists Syndicate.
Kurdish Journalism Day is observed each year on April 22 to commemorate the publication of Kurdistan, the first Kurdish-language newspaper. It was launched in Cairo in 1898 by Mikdad Midhat Bedir Khan and published 31 issues over four years. The paper is widely recognized for its early contributions to Kurdish national identity.
In a statement, Rashid highlighted the long-standing journalistic legacy of the Kurdish people and the press’s role in “documenting history, reporting events and news, and shedding light on issues that affect citizens’ lives.”
He emphasized the need to safeguard press freedom and protect journalists’ rights. “These are essential to fostering unity and solidarity among the people and reinforcing a national spirit,” Rashid said.
Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani reiterated the region’s commitment to “protecting freedom of the press,” calling free expression “a cornerstone of democracy and progress.”
“We continue to work to create a suitable environment that allows journalists to access information freely and operate without obstruction,” Barzani said.
He added that violations against media workers must be addressed through legal channels: “We believe that a free, bold, responsible, and critical press is a key partner in building a more just and advanced Kurdistan.” Barzani also paid tribute to journalists who have died in the line of duty. “We respectfully remember the martyrs of Kurdish journalism and all those who sacrificed in the pursuit of delivering truth and public service,” he said.
Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister Masrour Barzani “reiterated the Kurdistan Regional Government’s commitment to freedom of expression and press freedom.” He said the government aims to “facilitate the work of journalists,” encouraging them to operate “professionally and responsibly” and within “journalistic ethics, and international standards.”
He expressed hope that journalists would “continue to play an active role in raising public awareness and delivering accurate information, while also supporting government efforts to reform and prevent wrongdoing.”
Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani also issued a statement marking the occasion, honoring “all those who, over the past century, have dedicated their pens, thoughts, and lives to defending Kurdish rights, freedom, and human dignity.”
“On this occasion, we reaffirm the duty of the government and institutions to implement legislation and ensure a suitable space for journalistic work,” Talabani said. He also underscored the responsibilities of media outlets and reporters to uphold ethical standards and “advance professionalism” in their work.
Despite the celebrations, Kurdish journalists continue to face serious challenges, including limited access to information, harassment, arrests, and legal pressure. In January, the Metro Center for Journalists’ Rights and Advocacy reported 182 violations against journalists in the Kurdistan Region in 2024 — a 20% drop from 2023, but still reflective of what it called “a difficult year” for the press.
