KRG, EU Liaison Office Boost Strategic Partnership for Regional Progress, Human Rights Advocacy

The meeting confirmed the shared vision of the KRG and the EU, emphasizing the need for ongoing dialogue, stronger partnerships, and joint initiatives to tackle regional challenges.

KRG's Coordinator for International Advocacy Dr. Dindar Zebari (R) and Mr. Radu Eugen Butum (L), Head of the European Union Liaison Office in Erbil. (Photo: Kurdistan24)
KRG's Coordinator for International Advocacy Dr. Dindar Zebari (R) and Mr. Radu Eugen Butum (L), Head of the European Union Liaison Office in Erbil. (Photo: Kurdistan24)

Jan. 14, 2025

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Dr. Dindar Zebari, the Coordinator for International Advocacy of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), and Mr. Radu Eugen Butum, Head of the European Union Liaison Office in Erbil, reiterated their commitment to bolstering collaboration during a key meeting aimed at promoting democracy, protecting human rights, and advancing governance standards in the Kurdistan Region.

Reiteration of Shared Vision

The meeting led to a strong affirmation of the shared vision between the KRG and the European Union (EU).

Both sides stressed the necessity to maintain dialogue, deepen institutional partnerships, and implement joint initiatives to address regional challenges.

They also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting long-term progress in areas such as human rights, transitional justice, and peacebuilding.

Dr. Zebari expressed gratitude for the EU’s firm support and emphasized the crucial significance of continued engagement to realize shared goals.

Mr. Butum, in turn, reiterated the EU's dedication to supporting the KRG’s initiatives, highlighting a united approach to addressing regional and global challenges effectively.

Focus on Human Rights and Good Governance

A significant portion of the dialogue focused on the KRG’s National Human Rights Action Plan (2021–2025), a foundational framework for embedding international human rights standards into the region’s governance structures.

Dr. Zebari underscored its significance in tackling issues such as anti-corruption, minority rights, and support for internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Key Achievements

There were several key achievements from the discussion. One of the key achievements was the support for over 880,000 IDPs, including 40,000 students in camps who benefit from KRG's educational programs.

Another outcome from the meeting between the Coordinator for International Advocacy of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the Head of the European Union Liaison Office in Erbil was the emphasis on anti-trafficking efforts.

This highlighted the steps taken in combating human trafficking and enhancing protections for vulnerable groups.

One other noteworthy outcome was the media freedom initiatives. This included the introduction of a digital journalist identification system to enhance accountability and transparency.

European Union’s Support for Stability and Progress

Mr. Butum applauded the KRG for its proactive governance agenda, describing the Kurdistan Region as a beacon of stability and progress in a volatile region.

He highlighted the EU’s readiness to reinforce its partnership with the KRG, providing external support to address key priorities such as transitional justice, peacebuilding, and anti-trafficking efforts.

Mr. Butum also emphasized the EU’s commitment to tackling complex challenges, including the statelessness of refugees, reparations for victims of historical atrocities, and structural reforms to enhance governance.

Challenges and Opportunities

The discussion explored the pressing challenges and opportunities for the KRG to align regional governance with international human rights standards.

Topics included:

  • Addressing refugee statelessness and the need for durable solutions for displaced communities.
  • Implementing reparations mechanisms for victims of historical atrocities, such as the Anfal campaign.
  • Tackling structural obstacles to reform while navigating cultural and geopolitical sensitivities.

Dr. Zebari highlighted that the KRG’s governance model, with its focus on inclusivity and minority rights, could serve as a replicable framework for the MENA region, particularly in post-conflict zones.

Both parties agreed on the significance of aligning local governance structures with international standards to ensure long-term stability and progress.

The meeting between the KRG and the EU Liaison Office underlined a shared commitment to advancing democracy, safeguarding human rights, and promoting good governance.

With strengthened collaboration and shared vision, the partnership aims to position the Kurdistan Region as a model for stability, inclusivity, and progress in the region.