Image Credits - Rudaw Net
As Iraq prepares for its upcoming general population census, concerns are mounting among the Kurdish community in Kirkuk. Kurdish officials have expressed fears that the census may not accurately reflect the region’s demographics due to a significant influx of Arab settlers in recent years.
Kirkuk, a historically disputed city rich in resources and strategic importance, has long been a focal point of ethnic tensions in Iraq. Following the defeat of ISIS, the central government in Baghdad has facilitated the resettlement of Arab families into the area, a move that many Kurds view as an attempt to alter the demographic balance in their favour.
A Kurdish official, who requested anonymity, voiced apprehensions about the potential implications of the census. The official states that if the census is manipulated, it could undermine our representation and rights in the region. He highlighted that many Kurdish families have been displaced or are living in precarious conditions, which could affect their participation in the census process.
In contrast, some Arab community leaders argue that the settlement of Arab families is a natural development aimed at rebuilding the region post-ISIS. They contend that the presence of diverse communities can foster unity and stability.
The Kurdish population in Kirkuk, which has historically viewed the city as part of its autonomous region, fears that a skewed census could reduce political power and resource allocation. As preparations for the census continue, local authorities and community leaders are urging transparency and fairness to ensure that the true demographic composition of Kirkuk is accurately represented.
The outcome of the census, with the stakes high, could have lasting implications for Kirkuk’s future and the broader Kurdish-Arab relations in Iraq, making this a pivotal moment for all communities involved.