By | Dr. Nazaket Hussen
For over a century, the Kurdish people have endured the consequences of a world order that disregarded their rights. Since the Sykes-Picot Agreement carved up Kurdistan, Kurds across all regions have faced systematic oppression, deprived of their human rights, denied the preservation of their culture, and prevented from practicing their language and heritage.
The nations involved in this historic division have, over the last 100 years, sought to erase Kurdistan’s identity, suppress its culture, and undermine its people. This deliberate neglect has not only strained relations between the Kurds and these states but has also shaped the turbulence that continues to define the Middle East today.
Despite decades of struggle and countless sacrifices, Kurds have persistently fought to reclaim their rights. The blood of millions of martyrs testifies to their resilience and determination. Southern Kurdistan’s pursuit of independence following Saddam Hussein’s fall, and the emergence of hope in Western Kurdistan amid Syria’s upheavals, reflect an enduring desire for self-determination. Yet, history threatens to repeat itself, as external powers manipulate the region and Kurds face renewed risks of injustice.
Throughout these challenges, the Kurds, particularly the Kurdistan Region, have remained a force for stability and peace. They were at the forefront of confronting ISIS, and under the leadership of President Masoud Barzani, they have sought dialogue, reconciliation, and the resolution of crises.
Today, the Kurdish people and their leadership stand as a critical gateway to lasting peace in the Middle East. Their commitment to autonomy, coexistence, and unity offers a path toward regional stability—a promise that should not be ignored. The world must recognize that the Kurds, with their deep inclination for peace, should never again be cast as victims of history’s injustices.