Introduction

The political motives of the Kurdistan Region, Druze communities, and the Republic of Sharia can be summarized as follows:

Kurdistan Region

The Kurdish movement seeks autonomy and self-governance within Iraq, aiming for recognition and rights for Kurdish identity. Political goals include establishing a decentralized political system based on democratic confederalism, promoting cultural rights, and pursuing international support for an independent Kurdish state. The Kurdistan Regional Government emphasizes peaceful coexistence among ethnicities and enhancing local governance to improve public services and security .

Druze Communities

The Druze, primarily in Lebanon, Syria, and Israel, advocate for political representation and autonomy. Their motives often focus on protecting their community’s interests amid regional instability, maintaining a balance between alliances with various political factions while ensuring their cultural identity is preserved. The Druze also emphasize coexistence with other religious groups in the region .

Republic of Sharia

This movement seeks to implement Islamic law (Sharia) as a framework for governance, emphasizing justice, morality, and community welfare. Political motives include establishing a legal system that aligns with Islamic principles while engaging in public discourse about its interpretation to adapt to modern society. This reflects broader goals of integrating Sharia within democratic frameworks.

The political objectives of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) differ significantly:

PKK & KDP

Pan-Kurdish Vision: The PKK aims for a socialist Greater Kurdistan, advocating for the unification of Kurdish regions across Turkey, Iraq, Syria, and Iran. Initially focused on armed struggle, it has transitioned towards a model of democratic confederalism, promoting autonomous governance without necessarily seeking an independent state.

Leftist Ideology: The PKK is rooted in leftist ideology, emphasizing social justice and communal governance, with Abdullah Öcalan’s vision advocating for decentralized political structures.

KDP

Independent Kurdish State: The KDP’s primary goal is to establish an independent Kurdish state, focusing on securing international support for this cause. Historically, it has shifted from seeking autonomy within Iraq to actively pursuing statehood.

Political Alliances: The KDP maintains relatively positive relations with Turkey and the United States, often aligning its interests with those of these nations, particularly against the PKK.

Conclusion

These divergent objectives lead to ongoing tensions between the two parties, as they compete for influence and control within the Kurdish political landscape.