Barzani Charity Foundation (BCF), through its representative office in the United States, organized the “Defenders of Humanity” programme at the Rayburn House Office Building of the US Congress in Washington, D.C. The event aimed to honour courage and sacrifice, promote peaceful coexistence, and recognize those who support humanitarian work. A video message from the President of Barzani Charity Foundation was also presented during the event.
The programme was held on Monday, 9 November 2026, in the Gold Room of the Rayburn House Office Building, under the supervision of Khunav Amin, BCF Representative in the United States. Entitled “Defenders of Humanity,” the event was organized to honour bravery, recognize humanitarian contributions, and inspire hope. It also highlighted several important themes related to service, sacrifice, and humanitarian assistance.
As part of the programme, a video message from Musa Ahmad, President of Barzani Charity Foundation, was presented.
In his message, the President of BCF expressed his gratitude to the Government and people of the United States for their continued support of the Foundation’s projects and activities. He also called for the continuation of this support to assist internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees in the Kurdistan Region.
He further emphasized that respecting ethnic and religious minorities and protecting peaceful coexistence are among the fundamental principles underpinning the humanitarian philosophy of Barzani Charity Foundation. Accordingly, the Foundation has consistently served and supported these communities in all circumstances, guided by a spirit of brotherhood and a strong sense of responsibility.
He also referred to the historic position taken by President Barzani in 2008, when, following threats and attacks by the terrorist organization Al-Qaeda against Christian citizens, he opened the doors of the Kurdistan Region to them and offered a message of support and reassurance.
Another part of his message addressed the situation of IDPs and refugees in the Kurdistan Region. He stated that 27 camps remain in the Region, accommodating approximately 700,000 IDPs and refugees who continue to require humanitarian assistance and sustained support. He also noted that, despite challenging economic circumstances, the Kurdistan Regional Government spends more than USD 14 million annually on IDPs and refugees, according to statistics from the Joint Crisis Coordination Centre (JCC).
At the conclusion of his message, the President of BCF called on the United States to continue supporting the Kurdistan Regional Government and Barzani Charity Foundation, as it has done in the past. He emphasized the importance of maintaining this support to ensure that IDPs and refugees receive essential assistance in food security, healthcare, and education, while also facilitating their safe and voluntary return to their places of origin.
The “Defenders of Humanity” programme featured several other important contributions, including an address by Congressman Donald J. (Don) Bacon, a Republican member of the US House of Representatives representing Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District and a former United States Air Force Brigadier General.
Another speaker was Dave Wallace, founder of the organizations “Restoring America’s Mission” and “Just Energy.” He is a two-time candidate for the US Congress and has been recognized as a distinguished member of the Beta Biological Honor Society. His professional background also includes research in cancer and the human immune system, particularly Natural Killer (NK) cells, which play an important role in defending the body against cancer cells.
In their speeches, most of the participating dignitaries paid tribute to the experience and sacrifices of American veterans and the Peshmerga forces of Kurdistan. Particular emphasis was placed on their joint alliance and cooperation in the fight against ISIS terrorism, protecting civilian lives, and strengthening security. The event also honoured those who sacrificed their lives in defense of Kurdistan and the protection of its people.
Another segment of the programme focused on peaceful coexistence among the religious and ethnic communities of Kurdistan, respect for diversity, and the protection of religious freedom and cultural identities. In this regard, the importance of safeguarding the rights and dignity of all communities, including Christians, Yazidis, Kakais, Faili Kurds, and other components, was highlighted.
The event also provided an opportunity to express appreciation and gratitude to donors, supporters, volunteers, and humanitarian partners whose generosity, openness, and continued cooperation play a vital role in sustaining the humanitarian projects and activities of Barzani Charity Foundation. These initiatives benefit vulnerable and disadvantaged families, particularly children, people with disabilities, IDPs, refugees, and other communities affected by crises and hardship.
The central message of the event emphasized that defending humanity goes beyond protecting human freedom and dignity; it also encompasses serving vulnerable populations and supporting them in rebuilding their lives. From this perspective, education, healthcare, food, shelter, and the provision of basic necessities are all essential components of humanitarian efforts aimed at restoring stability and renewing hope in affected communities.
The programme included tributes to the martyrs of Kurdistan, welcoming remarks, speeches by distinguished guests, the screening of a documentary film, and the presentation of the President of Barzani Charity Foundation’s video message. It also provided an opportunity for networking and dialogue, while recognition awards were planned for donors and supporters of humanitarian work.
Through this programme, Barzani Charity Foundation reaffirmed its humanitarian mission: serving humanity with dignity and dedication, without discrimination based on gender, colour, religion, or ethnicity. The event also represented an important step towards raising the Foundation’s international profile, expanding its humanitarian and social relations, and strengthening friendship and cooperation between the peoples of Kurdistan and the United States.
“Defenders of Humanity” conveyed a shared message: honour those who protect human life, safeguard the dignity of all communities, and remain committed to standing alongside vulnerable and affected populations.
