Kurdish Scholar Awarded Russia’s Prestigious Pushkin Medal

[Anthea]

Kurdish Scholar Awarded Russia’s
Prestigious Pushkin Medal

Kurdish professor of literature and sociology Rashad Miran has been awarded the Pushkin Medal by Russian President Vladimir Putin, honoring his exceptional contributions to culture, art, and humanitarian work

His recognition marks a historic first, as Miran becomes the first Kurd ever to receive this prestigious distinction.

The award ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Kremlin, coinciding with Russia’s National Unity Day — a national holiday that celebrates the country’s cultural diversity and historical cohesion. The day is dedicated to promoting unity among Russia’s many ethnic and cultural groups.

Established in 1999, the Pushkin Medal is among Russia’s highest state honors. It is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the study, preservation, and promotion of Russian language, literature, culture, and the arts. Previous recipients have included renowned artists, writers, and scholars from across the world, underscoring its international cultural value

During his address at the Kremlin, Professor Miran highlighted the historic friendship between the peoples of Kurdistan and Russia. He noted that his academic and ethnographic work aims to promote greater cultural understanding between the two societies. “On behalf of myself and my Kurdish colleagues, I call for greater access to Russian-language materials to strengthen academic and cultural ties,” he said.

Expressing gratitude to President Putin, Miran delivered his remarks in both Russian and Kurdish — a symbolic gesture representing the bridge between the two cultures. His speech drew attention to his lifelong academic efforts to connect Kurdish heritage with global cultural discourse.

Following the announcement, Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw extended his congratulations to Professor Miran, describing the award as a source of pride for all Kurds. “We consider receiving this valuable award, which is presented annually by the Kremlin, an important achievement for our people, and we congratulate him once again,” Khoshnaw said in a statement

Miran’s recognition is also seen as part of a broader trend of strengthening cultural and academic cooperation between Russia and the Kurdistan Region. Historically, Russia has played an important role in supporting Kurdish students and intellectuals, particularly during the Soviet era, when many Kurds studied at Russian universities. The ongoing exchanges continue to foster educational partnerships and cultural dialogue between the two sides.

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