By Kazhan Abdullah
Kurdish nationalism has a complex history and significant implications for the Kurdish diaspora in Europe. As one of the largest non-state nations, the Kurds have faced systemic repression across Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and Syria, leading to a strong nationalist movement aimed at establishing an independent Kurdistan. The Kurdish diaspora in Europe, estimated at 2 to 3 million, primarily resides in Germany, France, the UK, Sweden, Austria, and the Netherlands. This community actively engages in political advocacy and humanitarian efforts to support Kurdish rights and influence European policies toward their homeland. However, since the 1980s, numerous Kurdish publishing houses have been established in Sweden, providing a platform for Kurdish authors to publish their works. Notable among these is the SARA publishing house, founded in 1987, which has been instrumental in distributing Kurdish literature not only within Sweden but also internationally. Kurdish nationalism in Europe has evolved through various forms of activism, including demonstrations and political lobbying. Organizations like the Kurdistan National Congress (KNK) aim to raise awareness of Kurdish issues and challenge oppressive regimes in their home countries. Despite their physical separation, diaspora intellectuals maintain a profound yearning for their homeland, engaging in the romanticization and idealization of Kurdistan.
Despite that, Land-based nationalism has played a significant role in shaping the political and social dynamics of Kurdish movements,
The emergence of Kurdish nationalism can be traced back to the late 19th century, which was shaped by the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the subsequent formation of nation-states that marginalized Kurdish identity. The Treaty of Lausanne (1923) effectively nullified Kurdish aspirations for independence established earlier in the Treaty of Sèvres (1920). This consequently sparked ai strong longing for autonomy and self-determination within the Kurdish population.
The centralization of power in newly formed states often resulted in the implementation of policies that sought to suppress the Kurdish identity, leading to revolts and armed struggles.
The development of Kurdish society, particularly in urban areas, witnessed a significant change in the form of a growing adherence to nationalist ideologies and the establishment of a more structured political framework.
The creation of autonomous regions, such as the Kurdistan Region in Iraq after 2003, serves as evidence of the efficacy of land-based nationalism in establishing political frameworks that align with Kurdish identity.
To summarize, land-based nationalism has significantly influenced the historical trajectory, leadership dynamics, and ongoing struggles for autonomy and recognition of Kurdish movements in a region characterized by multifaceted ethnic and political landscapes. However, the role of Kurdish intellectuals residing in the diaspora has been pivotal in the advancement of Kurdish identity, language, and culture. They have played a crucial part in preserving ties with their homeland and have been at the forefront of political activism advocating for the rights of the Kurdish people.