11/03/2026
March 11 Agreement : The Kurdish Quest for self - determination
In the tumultuous landscape of Iraqi politics , the Kurdish struggle for autonomy stands as a heart - wrenching saga of hope, dashed dreams, and unrelenting resilience. In 1970, an accord between the Kurdish movement under the leadership of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Iraqi government seemed to offer a glimmer of hope for self - rule. However, this hope was shattered by subsequent betrayals and broken promises .
A Promise Betrayed:
Amidst negotiations, the Kurdish movement cautiously embraced the agreement, hopeful for recognition of Kurdish language and territorial autonomy. Yet, this hope was short - lived. The agreement, heralded as progress, was ultimately betrayed, leaving the Kurdish people once again disillusioned. The withdrawal of promises came following various political developments, notably the Algiers Agreement in 1975 between Saddam Hussein and the Iranian Shah, which further complicated the Kurdish struggle. Although the agreement promised recognition of Kurdish language and territorial autonomy, it quickly became clear that these pledges were not genuine. Instead, the Kurdish region remained under Baghdad's control, and targeted violence against Kurdish communities ensued. During this period, especially leading up to the 1975 Algiers Agreement on March 6, 1975, the Iraqi government intensified its attacks on Kurdish populations, especially targeting People of Kurdistan with destruction on a very large scale and depopulation and demographic change policy and Arabization policy continued. This period of so - called autonomy was marked by tragic events, further deepening the wounds of betrayal and highlighting the harsh realities faced by the Kurdish people .
The Agony of Deceit:
The promise of autonomy, whispered like a prayer in the wind, was cruelly snatched away , Kirkuk, a symbol of Kurdish identity, remained a pawn in the hands of the oppressor, its fate determined by deceitful machinations and empty promises.
The Resilience of a People:
Yet , amidst the wreckage of shattered hopes , a flicker of defiance refused to be extinguished. The Kurdish people , with bruised hearts but unbroken spirits , rose from the ashes of betrayal. 56 years on , today, within the Iraqi constitution, KRG is a significant part of Iraq with its own administration and legally elected parliament and government. The KRI has been an astonishing example for coexistence , economical development , and sanctuary for refugees and IDPs and those who reside in Kurdistan.
Even under these circumstances there are things to be done and concern about sustainability and stability of the region , therefore the support of international community as it has been there in the past in 1991 during the uprising and during our war against ISIS . The support of the international community expected for the Future of Kurdistan and Iraq as whole to reach future security stability , and prosperity . Their struggle resonates with oppressed voices worldwide , a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity.
A Call to Action:
The plight of the Kurdish people cries out for justice and solidarity from the international community. It is imperative that we stand with them in their quest for independence and self - determination. Only through collective action and unwavering solidarity can we create a world where promises are kept, dreams are realized, and freedom reigns supreme.
Department of Foreign Relations
Kurdistan Regional Government-Iraq
