On January 22, 2025, the Law and International Relations and Diplomacy Departments at Tishk International University organized a “National Workshop on Kurdish Nationalism and the Kurdish Issue between the Rise and Fall of the Republic of Kurdistan in Mahabad and the Present-day Middle East.” The workshop aimed to enlighten participants about Kurdish nationalism and the struggles of the Kurds for self-determination and independence. The event was organized to celebrate the anniversary of the Republic of Kurdistan in Mahabad and is in line with UN Sustainable Development Goal 16, which promotes peace, justice, and strong institutions.

Historical Trajectory and Modern-Day Relevance

The workshop featured a distinguished speaker, Dr. Abubakir Ali (Karwani), a writer and politician. The event began with the playing of the Kurdistan national anthem and poetry from Qazi Muhammad, President of the Republic of Kurdistan. The workshop had two sessions:

  • Session 1: Kurdish Nationalism, Historical Trajectory and Struggles of the Kurds Dr. Ali explained the meaning of nationalism in the context of Kurdish aspirations for self-determination. He traced the roots of Kurdish nationalism to the revolution of Sheikh Obaidullah Nahri in 1881-1882, where he demanded recognition for an independent Kurdish state. Dr. Ali further explained the implications of the Lausanne treaty and the unjust treatment of the Kurds.
  • Session 2: The Wider Context of the Proclamation of the Republic of Kurdistan in Mahabad Dr. Ali explained that the proclamation of the Republic of Kurdistan in Mahabad gave a significant boost to Kurdish nationalism. However, he largely attributed the demise of this movement to internal factors such as a lack of consensus, disunity, regionalism, and tribalism.

Recommendations and Acknowledgements

The workshop was attended by about 70 participants, including university staff, students, policymakers, and members of the media. Participants gained a deeper understanding of the history and dynamics of Kurdish nationalism and the challenges it faces. The following recommendations were advanced:

  • There should be unity among the major Kurdish stakeholders and parties.
  • There should be consensus on major issues that affect the collective Kurdish nation.
  • A more diplomatic approach should be adopted in engaging internal and external stakeholders towards the revival of Kurdish nationalism and self-determination.

The event concluded with a Certificate of Appreciation ceremony. Asst. Prof. Dr. Idris Hadi, Head of the Board of Trustees of Tishk International University, gave the certificate of appreciation to Dr. Abubakir Ali, while the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Prof. Dr. Huseyin Mohammed Balisani, issued a certificate to the moderator, Mr. Badr Muhammed Tahir.

Keywords: Kurdish Nationalism, Republic of Kurdistan, Mahabad, Self-Determination, UN SDG 16, History, Diplomacy, Unity, Qazi Muhammad