On August 10, 2025, the Barzani Charity Foundation (BCF) held a significant seminar titled “In the Shadow of the Mountains, in the Light of History: Women’s Strength and Ability in the Kurdish National Struggle” in Washington, D.C. The event attracted numerous officials, academics, and members of the Kurdish community.

The seminar featured three esteemed panelists. The first speaker, Shahin Mafi, founder of the Azar Foundation, discussed philanthropy, pathways to success for women in business, and the vital role of education in society. The second panelist, Treefa Aziz, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Representative to the United States, addressed important political issues. Lastly, human rights lawyer Tara Azizi focused on human rights and justice.

Khunav Amin, BCF representative in the United States, expressed pride in hosting the event and highlighted its primary objectives to Kurdistan Chronicle. “I aimed to introduce the BCF and showcase its various initiatives that support vulnerable populations, including those in need, individuals with disabilities, refugees, and orphans. I also discussed the donation process and presented multiple options for those who wish to contribute.”

Representative Aziz provided a brief history of the role of Kurdish women in both Kurdistan and the KRG. “I am honored to represent the KRG and women. This is something I care deeply about. For the first time, last year I brought an all-women delegation to Washington, including government officials, civil servants, and representatives from vulnerable communities like the Yezidis.”

KRG Representative @treefaaziz joined a panel hosted by @BarzaniCF on women’s rights and empowerment, stressing that dialogue, collaboration, and advocacy are essential to achieving equality and inclusive policies. pic.twitter.com/8ohuc5a8Ew

— KRG-USA (@KRG_USA) August 11, 2025

“It had a significant impact in Washington,” she added. “Everyone they met was impressed by the level of participation and leadership these women displayed. The KRG is highly committed to women’s empowerment across all fields, including political leadership and economic entrepreneurship.”

Women have historically played a crucial role in Kurdish society, serving as educators, advocates, and security as a peshmerga fighter defending their communities against extremist groups like ISIS. As Aziz highlighted, this leadership is deeply rooted in Kurdish culture. “The KRG has many women in leadership positions, including representatives, ministers, deputies, and advisors. This reflects our culture, governance, and leadership, from President Masoud Barzani to Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani and KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani. This is a deeply rooted value, aimed at achieving international recognition.”

Read more: BCF: Two Decades of Hope

Currently, three women are serving in the Ninth Cabinet for the first time in the KRG’s history. The judicial branch consists of 270 judges, of whom 69 are women. Among 204 attorneys general, 59 are women. Additionally, the Kurdistan Region has 369 nongovernmental organizations focusing primarily on women’s issues.

As Representative Aziz pointed out, the KRG is committed to advancing gender equality, protecting women’s rights, and ensuring that women occupy leadership positions and are involved in policymaking. “Having been in this role for two years, I can tell you that our efforts are well received in the international community and recognized by the U.S. government as a unique beacon in the Middle East compared to our neighbors.”

On August 4, the BCF celebrated its 20th anniversary, having been established in 2005 to assist those in need without discrimination during natural disasters and wars, further solidifying its commitment to humanitarian support.