The Labour Party Annual Conference 2025

The Centre for Kurdish Progress and Solidarity Action fringe: KURDISTAN IN IRAQ: PROTECTING AUTONOMY, ADVANCING DEMOCRACY

Speakers:

• Cllr Mo Bakhtiar
• Cllr Pavlos Kotsonis
• Shad Hosyar
• Nawa Muhammed Kurds for Labour

The fringe session, Kurdistan in Iraq: Protecting Autonomy, Advancing Democracy, explored the Kurdish Region of Iraq (KRI) as a stabilising force in the Middle East, highlighting its contributions to regional security, minority rights, and democratic governance. The discussion emphasised the enduring Kurdish aspiration for self-determination, reflecting on historical struggles from genocides under Saddam Hussein, the 1991 uprising, and the 2017 independence referendum, to the establishment of democratic institutions in 1992.

Speakers highlighted the KRI’s achievements, including parliamentary governance, public sector reforms, and initiatives such as financial inclusion programmes and 24/7 electricity projects. At the same time, they acknowledged ongoing challenges, including constitutional disputes with Baghdad, the influence of regional powers, and the need for greater institutional accountability and opposition politics.

The panel stressed the importance of engaging the UK in supporting Kurdish autonomy. Historical UK involvement in protecting Kurdish populations laid the groundwork for self-governance, and continued partnership is now framed as both a moral responsibility and a strategic interest. Opportunities for collaboration include strengthening democratic institutions, expanding economic ties beyond energy, and supporting security forces like the Peshmerga to maintain stability.

Key themes included:

• Autonomy and Governance: The KRI’s struggle to consolidate political, military, and economic independence.
• Democratic Development: Building transparent institutions, promoting accountability, and addressing youth priorities.
• UK-KRI Cooperation: Trade, cultural exchange, security partnerships, and diplomatic engagement.
• Human Rights and Stability: Protection of minorities, press freedom, and regional stability as a foundation for broader peace.
• Economic Diversification: Developing sustainable industries and fostering investment to secure long-term prosperity.

The session concluded that Kurdish self-determination is not only a political aspiration but a practical framework for building a resilient, democratic society. Strengthening the KRI’s institutions and deepening international partnerships, particularly with the UK, remains crucial for regional security, economic growth, and the protection of human rights.