“Safe Haven” Play Staged at London's Arcola Theatre

News : 6/29/2026

London, United Kingdom, www.uk.gov.krd. The play Safe Haven was staged at the Arcola Theatre in London in the presence of Karwan Jamal Tahir, High Representative of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to the United Kingdom, alongside diplomats, academics, and friends of the Kurdish people.

The performance was followed by a panel discussion featuring Karwan Jamal Tahir and Katrina Rowe, a former British diplomat who served at the UK Foreign Office from 1991. The discussion was moderated by renowned British diplomat Sir John Jenkins.

In his remarks, the KRG High Representative expressed his appreciation to Chris Bowers, writer of the play and former UK Consul to the Kurdistan Region, as well as director Yad Din and the cast for their compelling portrayal of a critical chapter in Kurdish history.

“Bringing such an important and painful period of our people’s history to the stage is not an easy task,” he said. “The performance powerfully revived the memories and experiences of millions of Kurds.”

He also praised the role played by former British Prime Minister Sir John Major and British diplomats involved in the establishment of the Safe Haven initiative in 1991, describing their actions as courageous and visionary. He noted that their efforts helped prevent further massacres against the Kurdish people and paved the way for a safer and more stable future for the Kurdistan Region.

“As a result of those historic decisions, a Kurdistan was built that today stands as a defender of democratic values, coexistence, and the principles of civilisation,” he added.

Katrina Rowe, who played a significant role in the development and implementation of the Safe Haven initiative in 1991, said the protection of civilians and the prevention of genocide against the Kurdish people were the primary motivations behind the project.

“I am proud to have contributed to shaping this humanitarian initiative,” she said, while also thanking the playwright for preserving and commemorating this important historical moment through art.

Written by Chris Bowers, Safe Haven explores the events of 1991, including the Kurdish uprising, the humanitarian crisis that followed, and the international efforts that led to the creation of the Safe Haven initiative under Prime Minister Sir John Major. The play also highlights the role of advocacy, diplomacy, and diaspora lobbying in influencing policymakers and mobilising international support for the Kurdish people.

London
26th June 2026