The political landscape in Iraq has reached a decisive stage following the November 11, 2025 parliamentary elections. With the final results confirmed, the formation of a new government has entered a sensitive phase, and Kurdish representation in Baghdad has never been more critical. As political movements and constitutional procedures unfold, Kurdish unity is emerging not merely as a symbolic goal, but as a strategic imperative to protect the constitutional and financial rights of the Kurdistan Region.
Dr. Ashwaq Jaf, member of the Leadership Council of the Kurdistan Democratic Party and a winning candidate from the Sulaymaniyah governorate, underlined the importance of presenting a unified front in Baghdad. According to Dr. Jaf, the lack of unity in the previous term resulted in the passing of laws that undermined Kurdish rights. “In the third term, this unity no longer existed, which is why we saw many laws containing violations of Kurdish rights passed against the Kurds,” she said. “It is very important that Kurds are united and that the Kurdistani factions go to Baghdad with one paper on constitutional articles, financial rights, and the implementation of Article 140.”
The need for cohesion extends beyond legislative action. Kurdish representatives must coordinate their positions on all critical issues, including the national budget, compensation for victims of the Ba’ath regime, and rebuilding communities affected by past conflicts. Dr. Jaf emphasized that this collective approach is essential for asserting the Kurdish voice in decision-making processes. “Even if views differ in the Kurdistan Region, they must present a unified stance in Baghdad. The mechanism of working there is solely unity, one voice, and working together on constitutional and national rights,” she explained.
This unity also ensures fair participation among Kurdish parties. Dr. Jaf noted that the KDP’s approach is to avoid dominance over other factions. “The KDP wants everyone to participate in decision-making, to have a share in drafting bills, and to work together to secure the rights of the Kurdish people,” she said. Historical examples include sharing leadership positions in parliament with other Kurdish factions, demonstrating a commitment to inclusive governance.
In the broader context, Kurdish unity in Baghdad serves as both a protective and strategic measure. Solidarity strengthens Kurdish leverage in negotiations, protects constitutional entitlements, and provides the political stability necessary for advancing development in the Kurdistan Region. According to Dr. Jaf, only through unified action can Kurdish representatives prevent external parties from exploiting divisions. “With strong unity and solidarity, we can demand our nation’s rights, but the lack of that unity allows other parties to benefit from our divisions,” she concluded.
As Iraq enters this pivotal period, the Kurdish approach to cohesion and strategic collaboration in Baghdad will likely determine the region’s political and economic future. The coming months will test the ability of Kurdish parties to present a unified front, protect the region’s entitlements, and ensure that the Kurdish voice remains influential in shaping Iraq’s government.
Interview by
Frsat Said Shkur