Kurdistan has emerged as a regional leader in human rights through its active participation in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), aligning its policies with international standards. As part of Iraq’s fourth UPR cycle in 2025, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has implemented substantial reforms in justice, minority rights, anti-discrimination policies, and counterterrorism efforts. Economic and social advancements, including job creation, social protection programs, and humanitarian aid for over one million refugees, further highlight Kurdistan’s commitment to human dignity. International recognition, particularly for abolishing the death penalty, underscores its role as a progressive force in human rights governance. Moving forward, the KRG remains dedicated to strengthening accountability, transparency, and legal protections to sustain and expand its leadership in human rights.
A framework for accountability
The UPR, established by the UN Human Rights Council, systematically evaluates the human rights records of all UN member states every four and a half years. This process ensures no nation is exempt, relying on national reports, UN data, and civil society input. The recommendations made under this framework serve as a benchmark for assessing governmental progress, addressing shortcomings, and enhancing human rights protections.
The KRG continues to demonstrate a firm commitment to advancing human rights through active participation in the UPR. As a core mechanism of the UN Human Rights Council, the UPR provides an essential platform for assessing human rights progress, ensuring accountability, and driving reforms. Kurdistan remains steadfast in its engagement with this process, aligning its policies with international standards and reinforcing its reputation as a region dedicated to justice, equality, and human dignity.
As part of Iraq’s fourth UPR cycle in 2025, the KRG has taken an active role in shaping discussions and ensuring the region’s achievements and challenges are accurately represented. The Office of the Coordinator for International Advocacy has been at the forefront, advocating for tangible reforms and demonstrating Kurdistan’s commitment to international human rights obligations.
Progress and reform
During the 48th session of the UPR at the UN headquarters in Geneva, the KRG reinforced its dedication to human rights through a series of policy and legislative measures. The Kurdistan Region’s 2021-2025 human rights action plan, approved by the Council of Ministers, lays out ten key initiatives aimed at long-term development and institutional reform.
Under this plan, Kurdistan has made measurable progress, achieving a 74% implementation rate of UPR recommendations in the executive branch, 31% in the legislative branch, and 67% in the judiciary. Additionally, 75% of recommendations related to minority rights, anti-discrimination policies, and hate speech prevention have been successfully enacted. Over 2,100 religious leaders have been recognized for their contributions to fostering peaceful coexistence and countering sectarian divisions.
Justice and counterterrorism
Kurdistan has made significant strides in counterterrorism efforts and judicial integrity. Between 2021 and 2025, more than 1,456 individuals were tried for terrorism-related offenses, while 689 individuals were tried for espionage charges in collaboration with UNITAD (the UN Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da’esh/ISIL). Additionally, over 42,000 digital case files have been archived to preserve evidence against ISIS war crimes. The KRG’s unwavering commitment to justice has led to the rescue of 3,579 kidnapped individuals and financial support for over 3,500 survivors.
The KRG has introduced a draft law to combat torture, marking a critical step toward full alignment with international human rights treaties. Thirty-two cases of torture have already been referred to the courts, reinforcing Kurdistan’s zero-tolerance policy toward human rights violations. Additionally, the National Strategy for Combating Corruption has been implemented, with a 50% completion rate of UPR recommendations in this sector. Legal amendments have strengthened institutional oversight, leading to the prosecution of 97 individuals for corruption-related offenses.
Social and economic development
The KRG continues to prioritize sustainable development, creating over 100,000 new job opportunities and ensuring that 75% of the workforce in new projects consists of local workers. Social protection policies have been expanded, providing financial aid and healthcare access to marginalized communities. Additionally, Kurdistan has established 34 specialized committees overseeing more than 22,000 development projects to enhance public services.
For people with disabilities, the government has introduced a comprehensive database and strengthened service provisions, ensuring more inclusive policies. Housing initiatives have also been launched, with plans to construct 9,000 residential units, a portion of which is reserved for disabled individuals and low-income families.
In the healthcare sector, investments include the construction of new psychiatric hospitals, addressing the growing demand for mental health services, particularly for women and vulnerable groups.
Supporting refugees and upholding humanitarian values
As a region that has consistently demonstrated its humanitarian leadership, Kurdistan remains a sanctuary for those displaced by conflict. The region currently hosts over 1,009,788 refugees, providing them with essential housing, healthcare, and education. In the 2023-2024 academic year, approximately 36,300 refugee students were enrolled in schools, reinforcing Kurdistan’s commitment to inclusive education and social integration. The KRG has allocated 80% of the necessary financial resources for refugee welfare, ensuring sustained access to vital services.
International recognition and future aspirations
Kurdistan’s dedication to human rights has been widely acknowledged within the UPR framework. Countries such as Belgium and Brazil have commended the KRG’s progressive policies, particularly the suspension of the death penalty – a landmark decision reflecting Kurdistan’s commitment to a modernized legal system.
At the 48th UPR session, Iraq received 263 recommendations, with Kurdistan playing a crucial role in shaping responses and implementation strategies. The KRG’s participation in Troika Committee discussions has reinforced its influence within international human rights frameworks.
Moving forward, the KRG remains dedicated to ongoing collaboration with international partners, ensuring that human rights advancements are not only sustained, but further expanded. Challenges such as financial constraints and administrative complexities persist, but Kurdistan’s unwavering commitment to human rights remains a cornerstone of its governance.
A vision for the future
Through the dedicated efforts of the Office of the Coordinator for International Advocacy, the Kurdistan Region continues to set an example for progressive governance. Legal reforms, social policies, and economic initiatives are fostering an inclusive, equitable, and forward-thinking society.
As the UPR process evolves, Kurdistan’s proactive engagement with international legal bodies will be instrumental in further strengthening its human rights framework. The implementation of recommendations received during previous UPR cycles has significantly contributed to strengthening good governance and fostering accountability and transparency.
Dindar Zebari is the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Coordinator for International Advocacy.
