Kurdistan
- Unrecognized states
- Population (estimated) 36,4 million
- Language Kurdish
- Area (estimated) 190,000-500,000 km²
The Kurds are often said to be the largest ethnic group in the world without a state. Kurdistan refers to an area consisting of parts of southeastern Turkey (Northern Kurdistan), northern Iraq (Southern Kurdistan), northwestern Iran (Eastern Kurdistan) and northern Syria (Rojava or Western Kurdistan). Those who identify as Kurds form a prominent majority in the area and Kurdish culture, languages and national identity have deep historical roots there. Some Kurdish nationalist organizations seek to create an independent nation state consisting of some or all of the areas with a Kurdish majority, while others campaign for greater autonomy within the existing national boundaries. Kurdistan, as one of the most mountainous regions in the world, cherishes its mountains with the saying ‘Kurds have no friends but the mountains’.
The Future of Northeastern Syria
For the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which precariously continues to control an autonomous region of Northeastern Syria, the last few months have tested the organization’s hold over the region. An interview with the Commander-in-Chief, Mazloum Abdi, about the ceasefire with Turkey, the challenges of its border and the prospects for the future.
Wladimir van Wilgenburg | 10 Jan 2020
