Erbil, Kurdistan Region – The Kurdistan Region has achieved a historic milestone by being recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records as the "most health-aware society," following an announcement by the World Health Organization (WHO). The accolade highlights the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) significant progress in health legislation, public awareness campaigns, and epidemic response.

The announcement was made during a press conference by KRG Health Minister Saman Barzanji, following a meeting with Dr. Jamila Rabi, Head of the WHO office in Iraq. Minister Barzanji praised the Region’s dedicated efforts to reform and strengthen its healthcare system, attributing the achievement to systematic legal, administrative, and public health measures.

According to Barzanji, the ninth cabinet of the KRG implemented two major health laws:

The Law on the Duty and Protection of Patient Rights
The Law on Combating Narcotics

Additionally, six bylaws and 38 health-related guidelines have been published in the Official Gazette, further solidifying the Region’s healthcare framework. Barzanji also revealed that a draft health insurance law is now ready for discussion, marking another step toward expanding healthcare accessibility.

The minister emphasized Kurdistan’s effective management of medicine pricing, patient case classification, and medical response systems. He also highlighted the Region’s successful handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other seasonal epidemics, noting that Kurdistan maintained lower fatality rates compared to other regions.

Dr. Jamila Rabi, representing the WHO, commended the KRG for its scientific approach and strong cooperation in public health management.

"The Kurdistan Region has taken serious steps to develop the health sector," Dr. Rabi said. "What is very gratifying is the high level of health awareness among citizens. Our organization has supported these efforts, and now the people of Kurdistan have entered the Guinness Book as the most health-aware society."

Minister Barzanji stressed that public health is a global issue, noting that the KRG remains alert even to outbreaks in distant countries. He highlighted the strong partnership with the WHO, including the establishment of a central medical supply warehouse that serves not only Kurdistan but all of Iraq.

"We work like one family—based on science, data, and academic analysis," Barzanji stated. "This collaboration is vital for our preparedness and response efforts in times of health emergencies."

The recognition by the WHO and the Guinness Book of World Records underscores the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to advancing public health and sets a benchmark for other societies worldwide.