The Kurdistan Region, a land of breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural heritage, is nestled in the northern part of Iraq, bordered by Turkey, Iran, and Syria. The regional capital, Erbil (known in Kurdish as Hawler), stands as a testament to the region’s vibrant history and resilience. Officially governed by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), this region has evolved through a series of significant historical events to become an integral and dynamic part of Iraq.
The Journey to Autonomy
The establishment of the Kurdistan Region dates back to 1970 when an autonomy agreement was signed with Baghdad in March of that year. This agreement came after years of intense conflict and marked the beginning of a new era for the Kurdish people. However, the region endured further hardship during the Iran-Iraq War of the 1980s and the devastating Anfal genocide campaign carried out by the Iraqi army, which brought immense suffering to the population and severe damage to the natural environment of Iraqi Kurdistan.
In 1991, following the Kurdish uprising against Saddam Hussein, many Kurds were forced to flee and seek refuge in neighbouring Iran and Turkey. The establishment of a northern no-fly zone after the First Gulf War facilitated the return of these refugees. By October 1991, Iraqi forces had withdrawn from Kurdistan, allowing the region to function de facto independently, though it never declared independence and continued to see itself as an essential part of a united Iraq. The 2003 invasion of Iraq by coalition and Kurdish forces led to significant political changes, culminating in the ratification of a new Iraqi constitution in 2005. This constitution recognised Iraqi Kurdistan as a federal entity, granting Kurdish joint official language status throughout Iraq and sole official language status within the region.
Governance and Administration
Iraqi Kurdistan is a parliamentary democracy with a national assembly comprising 111 seats. The region’s leadership has been marked by the presidency of H.E. Massoud Barzani, who was first elected in the 2005 Iraqi Kurdistan elections and re-elected in 2009. The Kurdistan Region encompasses three governorates—Duhok, Erbil, and Sulaymaniyah—covering approximately 40,000 square kilometres and home to around five million people. Despite ongoing disputes with the central Iraqi government over predominantly Kurdish territories outside the current borders, the region has maintained a degree of stability and self-governance.
The Governorates of Iraqi Kurdistan
Erbil Governorate
Erbil Governorate, with its capital city Erbil (population: 1,431,580; area: 14,471 km²), is characterised by plains and hills to the east. The city, a melting pot of diverse ethnicities including Kurds (93%), Turkmen, Chaldeans, Assyrians, and Syrians, enjoys hot, dry summers and cold, rainy winters, with a particularly attractive spring season. As the oldest continuously inhabited city, Erbil’s historic centre is a significant archaeological site, with the Erbil Citadel, dating back over 6,000 years, being a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Agriculture and animal breeding are pivotal economic activities in the governorate, complemented by various industries, crafts, and a burgeoning tourism sector driven by stable security conditions.
Sulaymaniyah Governorate
Sulaymaniyah city (population: 1,613,397; area: 13,368 km²) was founded in the late 18th century and lies 890 meters above sea level. Known for its mountainous terrain, the governorate experiences cold winters with snowfall and pleasant summers. The Shahrazoor Plain, one of the most fertile areas, supports robust agricultural activities. Sulaymaniyah is renowned for its cultural contributions, having produced numerous Kurdish poets and writers such as Naly, Pyramerd, and Bekas. The Dukan and Darbandikhan dams are notable landmarks and popular tourist attractions.
Duhok Governorate
Duhok city (population: 912,522), established in 1887 during the Ottoman Caliphate, sits 583 meters above sea level and is surrounded by mountains. The Duhok Dam, a key feature in the north, serves both agricultural and tourism purposes and is the main source of drinking water. The governorate boasts numerous tourist sites, including Zaweta, SwartuKa, Sarsang, and Solav, alongside historical places dating back to the Assyrian era, such as Shndukha and AnishKy.
A Bright Future
The Kurdistan Region’s rich history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty make it a unique and vital part of Iraq. Its journey from conflict to autonomy and its ongoing development highlight the resilience and determination of its people. As the region continues to grow and thrive, it stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Kurdish people and their integral role in the broader tapestry of Iraq.
