On May 18, 2025, the International Relations and Diplomacy Department at Tishk International University hosted a national workshop on “State Repression and Human Rights: The Kurdish Case in Iraq, Turkey and Iran.” The event brought together academics, students, and human rights advocates for critical discussions on the historical and ongoing challenges faced by the Kurdish people.

The workshop was moderated by Mr. Bayad Sarwar Abdullah, who opened the event with a welcoming address and introduced the panel of distinguished speakers: Ms. Aysha Mahmood Fadhil, Ms. Farahjan Masroor Bahadeen, and Ms. Seyedehnarin Seyedmohammadsabah Barzanji. The workshop featured two in-depth sessions.

In-Depth Sessions

  • First Session: Led by Ms. Aysha Mahmood Fadhil and Ms. Farahjan Masroor Bahadeen, this session focused on the conceptual foundation of human rights, referencing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948 . The speakers explored how the Kurdish people have historically been subjected to systemic repression and oppression, particularly in Iraq and Turkey, and analyzed the implications of state actions on minority rights.
  • Second Session: Delivered by Ms. Seyedehnarin Seyedmohammadsabah Barzanji, this session addressed the specific experiences of the Kurdish community facing state-led repression in Iran. Her presentation emphasized the socio-political mechanisms that have been used to silence and marginalize Kurdish people.

Following the sessions, a lively Q&A segment took place, during which all three speakers engaged with participants, offering detailed responses and further insights into the complex human rights issues discussed.

Conclusion and Acknowledgments

Dr. Mohammad Salih Mustafa, Head of the International Relations and Diplomacy Department, expressed his gratitude to the speakers for their valuable contributions. He delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks and presented certificates of appreciation to the speakers and moderator in recognition of their dedication to advancing human rights awareness.

The workshop underscored the importance of academic dialogue in confronting historical injustices and promoting a deeper understanding of human rights issues in the Middle East.

Keywords: Human Rights, State Repression, Kurdish People, Iraq, Turkey, Iran, International Relations, Tishk International University, Human Rights Violations, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Middle East Politics