Summary:
This report explores the development, challenges, and future of Kurdistan Sign Language (KuSL) – a vital yet unrecognized language within the Kurdish Deaf community. Despite its deep cultural significance, KuSL faces serious barriers due to lack of official recognition, limited educational support, and insufficient resources.
The findings, emerging from a 2023 Interpreter Training Pilot supported by the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad and in collaboration with the Kurdistan Regional Government, reveal that KuSL has rich regional variations across Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Duhok. However, without proper exposure and education, the language is at risk of becoming endangered – especially among younger generations.
The report calls for immediate action through:
- Establishing a Deaf-led linguistic committee
- Creating a comprehensive KuSL dictionary
- Designing inclusive, culturally relevant education curricula
- Promoting international training partnerships and technology integration
These steps aim to preserve KuSL, strengthen Deaf education, and uphold the linguistic rights of Kurdish Deaf individuals – moving toward a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
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