The Kurdistan Regional Government Representation in the United States (KRG-USA) welcomed five scholars from the University of Duhok to Washington, D.C. on October 15, 2025, for a six-week academic and professional exchange program focused on diplomacy, governance, and international engagement.
This program is part of the Joint Diplomacy Project between the Institute of World Politics (IWP) and the University of Dohuk, launched on June 4, 2024. The initiative promotes academic exchange, diplomatic training, and cross-cultural understanding between students in the United States and the Kurdistan Region. It combines classroom instruction at IWP with practical experience through placements at institutions including the KRG Representation in Washington, the Embassy of Iraq, and the Barzani Charity Foundation (BCF).
Strengthening Educational and Diplomatic Ties
The scholars’ time in Washington provides them with direct exposure to U.S. institutions, think tanks, and civil society organizations — bridging academic learning with real-world experience in diplomacy. The University of Duhok and IWP has played an instrumental role in preparing and supporting the students, whose participation reflects the growing capacity of higher education in the Kurdistan Region.
Collaboration in Support of Future Leaders
This program highlights the partnership between academic institutions and diplomatic missions to equip Kurdish students with the skills and professional development needed to contribute to the Region’s progress. Through mentorship and institutional cooperation, the Joint Diplomacy Project is helping to prepare the next generation of professionals for careers in diplomacy and international service.
“We are delighted to host these talented scholars and to help connect them with a wide range of diplomatic and policy institutions in Washington,” said Treefa Aziz, Representative of the Kurdistan Regional Government to the United States. “Through these exchanges, we aim to foster mutual understanding and provide young Kurdish professionals with the exposure and experience needed to contribute to the Kurdistan Region’s future.”
Looking Ahead
Over the coming weeks, the students will attend lectures, participate in discussions on diplomacy and international affairs, and engage with U.S. organizations to gain a deeper understanding of governance and global policy. The KRG-USA looks forward to supporting partnerships that promote educational exchange, professional development, and people-to-people understanding between the Kurdistan Region and the United States.
