While it would not be possible to give a full account of all these new research activities, it, however, seems important that different speakers layout general trends observed in their respective fields as well as in their countries. Another objective of our congress is to analyse the outcome of the recently renewed and popularized high-level programmes on Kurdish language and literature in the West as well as in Kurdistan. Our main aim is to provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences between Kurdish scholars and their non-Kurdish fellow academics so as to encourage researchers to present their new research projects. The overall aim is to consolidate scientific methods and latest theories needed to develop new initiatives as well as perspectives in Kurdish studies.