ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Germany’s state-funded international broadcaster, Deutsche Welle (DW), is set to launch Kurdish-language programming, initially via digital platforms and later expanding to television, according to a German politician of Kurdish descent.
Ali Ertan Toprak, a leading representative of the Kurdish Community in Germany, told Rudaw on Tuesday that DW has finalized its decision to begin producing content in Kurdish and is currently recruiting Kurdish-speaking staff to kickstart the project.
“Initially, the content will be available online via YouTube and social media platforms. Later, it will also be broadcast on the television channel,” Toprak explained, noting that the move comes after more than a year of lobbying and consultations with German officials.
“A year and a half ago, thanks to our efforts, we received approval to begin broadcasting in the Kurdish language. Through continued meetings with German Culture Minister [Claudia Roth], the decision was made to include Kurdish in DW’s programming,” Toprak said, praising Roth for her support and openness toward the Kurdish community.
“The decision has been made, and preparations have been completed,” he emphasized, while acknowledging that “the outlet may still need some time to fully implement the programming.”
Toprak described the development as not only a “source of pride and joy,” but also a significant step toward international recognition of the Kurdish language and culture.
Germany hosts one of the largest Kurdish diasporas in Europe, with estimates ranging from one to two million people. In February, seven of twelve Kurdish candidates secured seats in Berlin’s federal parliament, the Bundestag.
Kosar Osman contributed to this report.
