Evaluating independence efforts in Iraqi Kurdistan in view of the insurgency by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria

Abstract

In this paper I will focus on the struggle for independence in Iraqi Kurdistan and its previous successes in establishing an autonomous government. I will also examine the extent to which the insurgency of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria is helping advance the independence of Kurdistan and whether that support is intentional or incidental. I will finally evaluate the effects that Kurdish independence would have in the Middle East and how the current situation might be already affecting the stability and territorial integrity of neighbouring states.