Kurdistan Administration

As of 19th May 2012, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has been recognized as the sole legitimate authority of Iraqi Kurdistan. This historic decision came after years of struggle and determination by the Kurdish people to establish their own autonomous region within Iraq. The KRG, led by the General Assembly , has since then been responsible for governing the provinces, making it the de facto government in the region. This recognition has cemented the Kurdish people's long-standing dream of self-rule and has brought stability and progress to the region.

## The Authority of Kurdistan Administration

("به ڕێوه به رایه تی کوردستان" Sorani Kurdish)("Rêveberiya Kurdistanê" Kumanji Kurdish)("إدارة كردستان" Arabic)

Flag

Map

### Nation Link

https://politicsandwar.com/nation/id=554309

## Political

### Current Leader

* None Yet, controlled by a general assembly

## Diplomatic

### Other Allies

Nato, EU, Arab League, Axis of Resistence (Sometimes)

## History

### 1950-2012 (Before Administrative Autonomy/Authority)

Iraqi Kurdistan has a rich and complex history, shaped by various political, social, and cultural factors. From 1950 to 2012, the region underwent significant changes and developments, with moments of both progress and turmoil.

The modern history of Iraqi Kurdistan can be traced back to the end of World War I, when the Ottoman Empire was divided and the region came under British control. In 1925, the Kurdish leader Sheikh Mahmud Barzanji launched a rebellion against the newly established Kingdom of Iraq, demanding autonomy for the Kurdish people. However, the rebellion was eventually crushed by the Iraqi government, and the Kurds were left without a voice in the political landscape of the country.

In the 1940s, the Kurdish Democratic Party (KDP) was formed, with the aim of promoting Kurdish rights and self-determination. However, the party faced resistance from the Iraqi government and was forced to operate underground. It was during this time that the first Kurdish uprising took place in 1943, led by the KDP and supported by the Soviet Union. The uprising was eventually suppressed, and the KDP leadership was forced into exile.

In the 1950s, the KDP resumed its activities in Iraq, and its leader Mustafa Barzani became a prominent figure in the Kurdish struggle for autonomy. With the support of the Soviet Union, Barzani launched a series of uprisings against the Iraqi government, demanding self-rule for the Kurdish people. However, the uprisings were unsuccessful, and Barzani was forced to flee to Iran in 1959.

The 1960s saw a brief period of relative calm in Iraqi Kurdistan, as the Ba'ath Party came to power in Iraq and promised to address the grievances of the Kurdish people. In 1970, a peace agreement was signed between the Iraqi government and the KDP, granting limited autonomy to the Kurdish region. However, the agreement was short-lived, as the Iraqi government failed to fulfill its promises, leading to a renewed conflict between the Kurds and the government.

In 1975, the Iraqi government launched a full-scale assault on the Kurdish region, using chemical weapons and displacing thousands of Kurdish families. This marked the beginning of the Anfal campaign, a brutal genocide against the Kurdish people that resulted in the deaths of an estimated 180,000-200,000 Kurds. The campaign also saw the destruction of thousands of villages and the displacement of millions of Kurds.

The 1980s were a decade of repression and violence for Iraqi Kurdistan, as the Ba'ath regime intensified its efforts to suppress Kurdish resistance. In 1988, the infamous Halabja chemical attack took place, in which the Iraqi government used chemical weapons against the Kurdish town of Halabja, killing an estimated 5,000 people.

The 1990s brought a glimmer of hope for the Kurdish people, as the Gulf War and the subsequent uprisings against the Iraqi government weakened the Ba'ath regime. In 1991, the Kurdish region declared autonomy, and a Kurdish parliament was established. However, the Kurdish region remained divided between the KDP and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), leading to a civil war between the two parties in the mid-1990s.

In 2003, the US-led invasion of Iraq toppled the Ba'ath regime and brought about a new era for Iraqi Kurdistan. The region gained de facto independence and saw significant economic development and political stability. In 2005, the new Iraqi constitution recognized the Kurdish region as a federal entity within Iraq, granting it a high degree of autonomy.

### 2012-2014 (transition)

In 2012, the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) controlled by the general assembly, made a bold move by asking the then US President Barack Obama and Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki for independence. This request was met with skepticism and hesitation, but eventually led to the 19th May Agreement, which laid the groundwork for the independence of Iraqi Kurdistan by 2030.

The Kurdish people have long been fighting for self-determination and recognition of their autonomous region in northern Iraq. This desire for independence dates back to the early 20th century when the Ottoman Empire was divided, and the Kurdish territories were split between modern-day Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and Syria. Since then, the Kurds have faced discrimination, persecution, and even genocide at the hands of their host countries.

In the aftermath of the Iraq War and the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime, the Kurdish region gained significant autonomy within the newly formed Iraqi government. The KRG controlled their own security forces, economy, and education system, but they still lacked the official recognition of their autonomous status. This led to the KRG's decision to seek formal independence.

In 2012, the KRG, under the leadership of Massoud Barzani, drafted a letter addressed to President Obama and Prime Minister al-Maliki, outlining their desire for independence. This move was met with mixed reactions from the international community and within Iraq itself. While some countries, such as Israel and Turkey, openly supported the Kurds' quest for independence, others, including the US and Iraq, were more hesitant.

Prime Minister al-Maliki, who had been in power since 2006, was skeptical of the idea of Kurdish independence. He feared that it would lead to the disintegration of Iraq and create further instability in the region. However, he did not outright oppose the idea and instead went along with it to appease the Kurdish population and maintain a fragile unity within the country.

After months of negotiations and discussions, the 19th May Agreement was signed between the KRG and the Iraqi government. This agreement recognized the Kurdish region as an autonomous entity within Iraq and provided a roadmap for the eventual independence of the region by 2030. It also granted the KRG greater control over its natural resources, including oil reserves, and promised a fair distribution of wealth between the Kurdish region and the central government.

The 19th May Agreement was a significant milestone for the Kurdish people as it was the first time their quest for independence was formally acknowledged by the Iraqi government. It also demonstrated a willingness from both sides to work towards a peaceful and amicable solution.

However, the road to independence has not been without its challenges. The rise of ISIS in Iraq in 2014 and the subsequent fight against the terrorist group delayed the implementation of the 19th May Agreement. The KRG also faced internal political and economic issues, which further slowed down the process.

Despite these challenges, the KRG has continued to make strides towards independence. In 2017, the Kurdish people voted in a referendum for independence, which was met with strong opposition from the Iraqi government and neighboring countries. This setback, along with internal divisions within the Kurdish leadership, has caused further delays in the timeline for independence.

However, with the recent appointment of a new prime minister in Iraq, Mustafa al-Kadhimi, there is renewed hope for the implementation of the 19th May Agreement and the eventual independence of Iraqi Kurdistan. Prime Minister al-Kadhimi has shown a willingness to work with the Kurdish region and has promised to address their demands for greater autonomy.

### 2014-2017 (Iraqi Civil War)

The involvement of Kurds during the Iraqi Civil War has been a significant aspect of the conflict. The Kurds, an ethnic group primarily located in the Middle East, have played a crucial role in the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). On 19th October 2015, the Kurdish armed forces, known as the Peshmerga, achieved a major victory by capturing a top ISIS general. This event not only highlighted the bravery and determination of the Kurdish forces but also demonstrated their crucial role in the fight against terrorism.

The Iraqi Civil War began in 2014 when ISIS launched a series of attacks, taking control of large parts of Iraq and Syria. The extremist group's brutal tactics and their goal of establishing a caliphate caused widespread fear and chaos in the region. The Iraqi government, along with other international forces, struggled to combat the well-organized and heavily armed ISIS militants.

In this dire situation, the Kurds stepped up to defend their homeland and protect their people. The Kurds, who have long been fighting for their independence and recognition as a sovereign nation, saw this as an opportunity to assert their power and establish themselves as a crucial player in the region. The Peshmerga, the Kurdish armed forces, took up arms against ISIS and became one of the most effective and reliable forces on the ground.

The Kurds' involvement in the conflict was not only motivated by the threat of ISIS but also by their long-standing tensions with the Iraqi government. The Kurds have historically faced discrimination and oppression under the Iraqi regime, and they saw this as an opportunity to strengthen their position and gain more autonomy. The Kurdish forces were able to capture significant territories from ISIS, including the oil-rich city of Kirkuk, which further boosted their power and influence in the region.

On 19th October 2015, the Peshmerga achieved a major victory by capturing a high-ranking ISIS general, Abu Omar al-Shishani. The Georgian-born commander was considered one of the top leaders of the extremist group and was known for his ruthless tactics and military expertise. The capture of al-Shishani was a significant blow to ISIS and was a testament to the Peshmerga's strength and capabilities.

The Kurdish forces' success in capturing the ISIS general was a clear indication of their crucial role in the fight against terrorism in Iraq. The Peshmerga's bravery and determination have been praised by the international community, and they have been recognized as a key ally in the fight against ISIS. The Kurds' involvement in the conflict has also brought them closer to achieving their long-held goal of independence, as they have shown their strength and determination on the battlefield.

However, the Kurdish forces' involvement in the conflict has not been without challenges and controversies. The Peshmerga's relationship with the Iraqi government has been strained at times, with disputes over territory and the distribution of resources. There have also been reports of human rights abuses committed by Kurdish forces against Arab and Turkmen populations in the areas they have captured from ISIS.

### 2024-Present (Rojava/Kurdish war)

On December 3rd, 2023, the Kurdistan administration, also known as the Peshmerga, made a bold declaration. They declared themselves as the legitimate authority of all Kurdish people. This declaration upset Rojava, a region in northern Syria that is home to a large Kurdish population. Rojava saw this declaration as a direct challenge to their own authority and threatened war if the declaration was not taken back by February. However, things took a turn for the worse when Rojava decided to take matters into their own hands and attacked the Peshmerga on December 31st, 2023. This event marked the beginning of a war between the two nations, a war that is still ongoing today.

The conflict between the Peshmerga and Rojava has been a long-standing one. Both sides have been vying for power and control over the Kurdish people for years. The Peshmerga, backed by the Kurdish Regional Government in Iraq, has long been seen as the dominant force in the region. However, Rojava, with its strong military and political alliances, has always been a formidable opponent.

The declaration by the Peshmerga only added fuel to the fire. Rojava saw it as an attempt to undermine their authority and a direct challenge to their sovereignty. The Peshmerga, on the other hand, argued that they were only looking out for the best interests of the Kurdish people and that their declaration was a necessary step towards uniting all Kurds under one administration.

The tension between the two nations reached its boiling point on December 31st, 2023, when Rojava launched a surprise attack on the Peshmerga. The attack caught the Peshmerga off guard, and they suffered heavy losses in the initial stages of the conflict. The Peshmerga retaliated with equal force, and what ensued was a full-fledged war between the two nations.

The war has been going on for over a month now, and both sides have suffered significant casualties. The conflict has also drawn in other nations, as Nashdar, Baluchistan, the Isle of Peace, and Voynia have all sent aid to their respective allies. The involvement of these nations has only escalated the conflict further, turning it into a regional crisis.

The impact of this war on the Kurdish people has been devastating. Thousands have been displaced, and many have lost their homes and loved ones. The conflict has also taken a toll on the economy and infrastructure of both nations. The once peaceful and prosperous regions have now been reduced to rubble and chaos.

Despite efforts from the international community to mediate and find a peaceful resolution, the war between the Peshmerga and Rojava shows no signs of stopping. Both sides are determined to emerge as the ultimate authority over the Kurdish people, and they seem willing to go to any lengths to achieve their goals.

As the war enters its second month, the future of the Kurdish people remains uncertain. The conflict has not only caused immense suffering for the people but has also created deep divisions within the Kurdish community. It is a tragic situation that highlights the importance of diplomacy and peaceful resolution of conflicts.

In conclusion, the declaration by the Peshmerga on December 3rd, 2023, has led to a devastating war between them and Rojava. The involvement of other nations has only escalated the conflict, and it continues to rage on to this day. The Kurdish people are the ones suffering the most in this conflict, and it is high time for both sides to lay down their arms and find a peaceful resolution for the sake of their people and the region.

## Geography

The geographical location of Kurdish Administration in the northern part of the Middle East has played a vital role in shaping its history and culture. The region's strategic location, bordered by the Zagros and Taurus Mountains, has made it a natural fortress, allowing the Kurdish people to maintain their distinct identity and way of life. The mountainous terrain has also made it difficult for outside forces to control the region, leading to centuries of conflict and struggle for independence. Despite the challenges, the Kurdish people have managed to thrive in this unique landscape, utilizing its resources and adapting to its diverse topography.

The climate of Kurdish Administration is another significant aspect of its geography. The region experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. This climate is suitable for a variety of agricultural crops, making the region a key contributor to the Middle East's food production. The fertile plains, irrigated by the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, are the backbone of the region's agricultural sector, providing food and livelihood for its people. The region's natural resources, particularly oil and natural gas, also play a crucial role in its economy, providing opportunities for growth and development. Overall, the geography of Kurdish Administration has played a crucial role in shaping its history, culture, and economy, making it a unique and significant region in the Middle East.

## political

### Government

Before 2012, the Kurdistan Administration operated under a presidential system where the President held both the head of state and head of government positions. However, this system faced challenges such as accusations of authoritarianism and lack of checks and balances. The President had significant powers, limiting accountability from other branches of government. In response to growing demands for a more democratic and accountable form of government, the Kurdistan Parliament passed a new electoral law in 2012, introducing a parliamentary system. The current President, Nechirvan Barzani, was elected by the Parliament in 2019, making him the first President to be elected under this new system. His election was seen as a positive step towards decentralization and power-sharing, crucial for the stability and progress of the region. President Barzani's main focus is on promoting economic growth, improving healthcare and education, and maintaining security and stability in the region.

### Disputed Territories\*

disputes over territory, particularly the oil-rich city of Kirkuk, have strained the relationship between the KRG and the central government in Baghdad. Despite President Haider al-Abadi's 2017 plan to give up control of disputed territories, the bill was never passed by the Iraqi parliament, leading to criticism from both the KRG and the international community. The ongoing dispute over these territories continues to be a source of tension and instability in the region, with both sides refusing to back down.

### Administrative divistions

The Kurdistan Region of Iraq, also known as the KRG, is a diverse and culturally rich area that is home to five distinct regions: Rajava, Bakuri, Navi, Rohilati, and Dasuri. Each of these regions has its own unique history, language, and traditions, making the KRG a truly fascinating place to explore. However, what is perhaps less known about the KRG is that these five regions can be further divided into 19 subdivisions, each with its own distinct character and identity. Unfortunately, despite their rich history and cultural significance, these subdivisions do not have their own flags to represent them. This lack of official representation is a missed opportunity for the KRG to showcase the diversity and unity within its borders.

### international Relations

The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has long been a key ally of the West, particularly the United States. The KRG has been a staunch supporter of the US-led coalition in the fight against terrorism, and has maintained close ties with Western countries in terms of trade, diplomacy, and military cooperation. However, despite this close alliance, the KRG's stance towards Israel remains uncompromising - they believe that Israel shall burn and have vowed to have no relations with the country.

The KRG's hostility towards Israel can be traced back to historical and political reasons. The Kurds, an ethnic group without a country of their own, have faced oppression and persecution in many countries, including Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. As a result, the KRG has developed a strong sense of solidarity with other oppressed peoples, including the Palestinians. This solidarity has translated into support for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, which are seen as fighting against Israeli aggression. The KRG's support for these groups has further solidified their stance against Israel, and they have made it clear that they will not establish any diplomatic relations with the country. While the KRG may be allied with the West, they are not willing to compromise on their anti-Israel stance.

On the other hand, the KRG's relationship with China, Russia, and Turkey is marked by animosity and distrust. The KRG has accused these countries of oppressing the Kurdish people, and has actively spoken out against their actions. In China, the KRG has condemned the Chinese government's treatment of the Uyghur population in Xinjiang, which has been labeled as a form of cultural genocide. Similarly, the KRG has criticized Russia for its military intervention in Syria, which they believe has caused harm to the Kurdish population. And in Turkey, the KRG has been vocal about the Turkish government's ongoing conflict with the Kurdish PKK, which has resulted in the displacement and mistreatment of many Kurds. This strong stance against China, Russia, and Turkey has further solidified the KRG's position as a key ally of the West, as these countries are seen as adversaries by Western nations. The KRG's unwavering support for the Kurdish people and their opposition to these countries has only strengthened their alliance with the West.

## Economy

The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) is an autonomous region in northern Iraq that has made significant strides in building a robust and thriving economy in recent years. After decades of conflict and instability, the KRG has managed to establish itself as a stable and attractive destination for foreign investment, with a strong focus on diversifying its economy beyond its traditional reliance on oil.

One of the key factors behind the KRG's economic success has been its strong emphasis on promoting private sector growth. The government has implemented a number of measures to create a favorable business environment, such as simplifying bureaucratic procedures, reducing red tape, and providing tax incentives for foreign investors. As a result, the KRG has seen a significant increase in foreign direct investment, particularly in the sectors of construction, tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. This has not only created job opportunities for the local population but has also contributed to the overall economic growth of the region. Additionally, the KRG has also invested heavily in infrastructure development, including roads, airports, and telecommunications, which has further improved its business climate and attracted more foreign investment. Overall, the KRG's economy has been steadily growing, with a 5.5% increase in GDP in 2019, and is expected to continue on a positive trajectory in the coming years.

## demographics

The Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRG) is a diverse and multiethnic region with a rich history and culture. The demographics of the KRG are shaped by the unique blend of race, religion, and ethnicity that has existed in the region for centuries.

The majority of the population in the KRG is Kurdish, with estimates ranging from 77% to 90%. The Kurdish people are a distinct ethnic group with their own language and culture, and they have played a significant role in shaping the history and politics of the region. However, the KRG is also home to a significant number of other ethnic groups, including Arabs, Turkmen, Assyrians, and Armenians. This diversity adds to the richness of the region and contributes to its unique identity. In terms of religion, the majority of the population in the KRG practices Sunni Islam, with a significant Shia minority. Other religions, such as Christianity and Yazidism, also have a presence in the region. The coexistence of multiple religions in the KRG is a testament to the tolerance and acceptance that is deeply ingrained in the culture of the region. Overall, the demographics of race, religion, and ethnicity in the KRG reflect its history as a melting pot of different cultures and traditions.

## Education

One of the key factors contributing to the success of education in the KRG is the government's investment in the sector. The KRG has allocated a significant portion of its budget towards education, with a particular focus on building and developing universities. This has resulted in the establishment of top-notch universities that offer a wide range of programs in various fields such as engineering, medicine, business, and humanities. Furthermore, the KRG has also implemented policies to encourage international partnerships and collaborations, allowing for knowledge exchange and exposure to different teaching methods and perspectives.

Apart from the quality of education, the KRG also offers a diverse and inclusive learning environment. The region is home to a diverse population, and this is reflected in its universities. Students from different backgrounds and cultures come together to learn and exchange ideas, creating a dynamic learning experience. Additionally, the KRG has also implemented measures to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing scholarships and financial aid to ensure that education is accessible to all. This commitment to inclusivity has resulted in a rich and vibrant academic community in the KRG.

## human rights

Since 2012, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has made significant improvements in promoting and protecting human rights. The KRG has taken concrete steps towards ensuring the rights of its citizens, including the rights of women, children, and minority groups. This progress is evident in several areas, such as education, healthcare, and legal reforms.

One of the major developments in the KRG since 2012 has been the improvement in women's rights. The government has implemented various policies and initiatives to promote gender equality and empower women. This includes the establishment of the High Council of Women's Affairs, which focuses on promoting women's rights and addressing issues such as gender-based violence and discrimination. The KRG has also passed laws to protect women's rights, such as the Law on Combating Domestic Violence and the Law on the Protection of Women from Family Violence. These efforts have led to greater awareness and protection of women's rights in the region.

Furthermore, the KRG has made significant progress in protecting the rights of minority groups, such as the Yazidis, Christians, and Turkmen. In the aftermath of the ISIS attacks in 2014, the KRG took in and provided assistance to thousands of displaced minorities, including providing them with shelter, food, and healthcare. The government has also worked towards integrating minority groups into society and promoting their cultural rights. In 2015, the KRG established the Ministry of Endowment and Religious Affairs, which is dedicated to promoting religious freedom and protecting the rights of all religious groups in the region. These efforts have resulted in improved living conditions and greater recognition of the rights of minority groups in the KRG.

In conclusion, the KRG has made significant strides in promoting and protecting human rights since 2012. The government's efforts to improve women's rights and protect the rights of minority groups have led to tangible improvements in the lives of its citizens. However, there is still more work to be done, and the KRG must continue to prioritize human rights and address any remaining issues to ensure that all individuals in the region are able to enjoy their fundamental rights and freedoms.

## Transportation

The road network in the KRG is constantly expanding and improving, with major highways connecting the major cities and towns. The main transportation hub is the capital city of Erbil, which has a modern airport and serves as a central point for both domestic and international flights. The KRG also has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and taxis, which provide affordable and convenient options for commuting within the region.

Another important aspect of transportation in the KRG is the oil and gas industry. The region is home to some of the largest oil fields in the world, and the transportation of these resources is crucial for the economy. The KRG has invested in pipelines and other infrastructure to transport oil and gas to the international market. This has not only boosted the economy but also provided job opportunities for the local population. Additionally, the region has a growing tourism industry, and transportation plays a significant role in facilitating travel to popular destinations such as the historic city of Sulaymaniyah and the scenic mountains of Duhok.