Erbil International Book Fair Opens with Over 350 Publishers from 22 Countries

The 17th Erbil International Book Fair officially opened on Wednesday under the theme “The World Speaks Kurdish,” showcasing a rich tapestry of global literary voices while celebrating Kurdish culture and language.

This year’s fair features more than 350 publishing houses and printing centers from 22 countries, making it one of the region’s most significant cultural events. Thousands of titles—spanning fiction, academic works, translations, and children’s books—are on display, drawing readers, scholars, and industry professionals from across Iraq and beyond.

A Celebration of Cultural Dialogue

Organized annually in the capital of the Kurdistan Region, the Erbil International Book Fair has become a vital platform for promoting intellectual exchange, freedom of expression, and regional literary development. The slogan for this year's edition, “The World Speaks Kurdish,” underscores a growing global interest in Kurdish literature and its cultural contributions.

The fair runs for ten days, from April 9 to April 19, 2025, and is open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Kurdistan24 is the official media partner, providing comprehensive coverage of the fair and its wide-ranging activities.

In a statement issued by the fair’s high supervisory committee, publishers were urged not to exhibit any books promoting extremist ideologies or hate speech, reaffirming the fair's commitment to peaceful dialogue and inclusive narratives.

Beyond Books: A Hub for Art and Ideas

In addition to its expansive literary showcase, the fair also hosts a rich lineup of cultural and intellectual activities, including:

Poetry readings and book signings

Panel discussions on topics ranging from Iraqi cultural identity to regional literary trends

Art performances and musical evenings

Launch events for new Kurdish and Arabic publications

These events provide a forum for writers, poets, publishers, and readers to engage in meaningful conversations about Iraq and the broader region’s past, present, and future—through the lens of literature and art.

A Literary Beacon in a Shifting Region

The Erbil International Book Fair has steadily grown in prominence since its inception. Its continued success stands in contrast to the broader challenges facing the publishing industry in Iraq, where censorship, economic instability, and limited distribution networks often hinder literary growth.

However, the Kurdistan Region’s relative stability has made Erbil a cultural and intellectual hub, attracting regional and international attention. The fair not only supports the local book market but also bridges literary traditions between Kurdish, Arabic, and international writers.

As the world increasingly tunes in to Kurdish voices, this year’s fair offers a timely reminder: literature remains one of the most powerful tools for connection, understanding, and cultural resilience.

ERBIL (Kurdistan24)