Maureen McLuckie Remembered for Decades of Humanitarian Service in Kurdistan

Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed’s media office

Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed and Maureen McLuckie.

Maureen McLuckie, a devoted friend of the Kurdish people who dedicated her life to supporting children and helping them access vital medical treatment, has passed away.

In a heartfelt tribute, Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed, a member of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) Political Bureau, honoured McLuckie’s legacy and their decades of shared humanitarian work.

In her statement, Ahmed said:

“I am heartbroken to say goodbye to Maureen McLuckie, a remarkable woman who was integral to the establishment of the Kurdistan Children’s Fund and Kurdistan Save the Children. She was by my side, night and day, through every challenge and every setback from the early 1990s.

I remember the long nights typing into the early hours, writing proposals, answering rejection letters and finding new ways forward when doors seemed closed.

Maureen wasn’t just a volunteer. She was my closest friend for many years and a constant source of strength and encouragement.

For decades, she gave her time, energy and heart to the people of Kurdistan. She helped build bridges, find medical care for children, support families and create opportunities where there seemed to be none.

Maureen, you stood with us when the road was hardest. Thank you, my dear friend. I will carry you with me always.”

In recognition of her outstanding lifelong service to the people of Kurdistan, McLuckie was awarded Sulaymaniyah’s prestigious Golden ‘Bla’ Award in 2023.