Kurdistan
Woman arrested for publicly dancing on a motorcycle on the streets of Erbil on August 18, 2025. Photo: Screengrab/Rudaw
ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - A woman seen dancing on the back of a motorcycle in Erbil - captured in a video that sparked widespread reactions on Kurdish social media - was arrested by local authorities on Monday for behavior deemed “incompatible with the customs” of Kurdistan Region society, a senior official told Rudaw.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the senior official said, “Erbil police were instructed to take legal action against the woman. After investigating, she was arrested at noon today [Monday].”
The official described her behavior as “incompatible” with Kurdish societal customs and norms and “not permitted” in the Region. He added that the woman is of Kurdish descent, labeling the incident as "regretful."
While Erbil hosts many foreigners of diverse backgrounds, the city remains more conservative than other parts of the Kurdistan Region. Public life is strongly influenced by traditional values tied to family honor, religion, and community reputation.
Behaviors seen as disruptive or indecent - especially by women - often face criticism or intervention from local authorities.
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