On June 7, 2017, a historic meeting of political parties in the Kurdistan Region, under the leadership of Masoud Barzani, then-president of Iraqi Kurdistan and current president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), decided to hold a referendum on Kurdish independence. Barzani heralded this decision as a pivotal achievement for the Kurdish people, recognizing the sacrifices of countless martyrs who had fought for Kurdish autonomy. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing the Kurdish national cause, culminating in the referendum that sought to realize the longstanding dream of Kurdish independence.

Masoud Barzani: A Legacy of Leadership

Masoud Barzani, born in 1946, has been a cornerstone of Kurdish politics for decades. As the leader of the KDP and the former president of Iraqi Kurdistan, Barzani has dedicated his life to the Kurdish liberation movement. Under his leadership, the Kurdistan Region has achieved a significant degree of autonomy, establishing its own government and military forces, the Peshmerga. Barzani's unwavering commitment to Kurdish self-determination has defined his tenure and positioned him as a key figure in Kurdish history.

The Decision for Independence

The June 7, 2017, meeting convened various political parties in the Kurdistan Region, united under Barzani’s leadership to decide on holding an independence referendum. Barzani described this decision as a monumental step forward, reflecting the aspirations of the Kurdish people and honoring the sacrifices made by martyrs. He emphasized the importance of the referendum in expressing the Kurdish will to the international community.

In his address, Barzani expressed profound gratitude to the Peshmerga forces, the Kurdish people, and the political parties that displayed a sense of national responsibility. He hoped this step would foster unity and solidarity among the political factions in Kurdistan. Barzani stressed the importance of pursuing independence through peaceful and non-violent means, seeking positive relations with Baghdad and neighboring countries.

Honoring the Martyrs

Barzani's leadership has always underscored the sacrifices of Kurdish martyrs. He believed that the Kurdish people’s achievements and victories were built on the blood and sacrifices of those who had fought for freedom. Barzani consistently honored the martyrs, ensuring that their legacy remained central to the Kurdish national struggle. He called for the continuous remembrance of their contributions, emphasizing that their sacrifices were the bedrock of the Kurdish fight for independence.

The Independence Referendum: September 25, 2017

The independence referendum took place on September 25, 2017, in the Kurdistan Region and the Kurdish territories outside the Region. The referendum saw an overwhelming turnout, with 3,305,925 people participating. Of these, 2,861,471 voted in favor of independence, accounting for more than 92% of the total votes. This resounding result underscored the strong desire of the Kurdish people for independence and self-determination.

Aftermath and Commemoration

Despite the overwhelming support, the referendum faced significant opposition from the Iraqi central government and led to geopolitical tensions. The international community's response was mixed, with some countries supporting the Kurdish right to self-determination and others emphasizing Iraq's territorial integrity.

In 2023, Barzani commemorated the sixth anniversary of the referendum, describing it as the "day of the victory of the will of the people." This commemoration highlighted not just the vote itself but also the enduring struggle and aspirations of the Kurdish people. It served as a reaffirmation of their ongoing pursuit of freedom and justice.

Masoud Barzani's leadership and the decision to hold the 2017 independence referendum marked a defining moment in Kurdish history. It was a testament to the Kurdish people's enduring struggle for autonomy, recognition, and self-determination. The sacrifices of the martyrs, the bravery of the Peshmerga, and the unwavering spirit of the Kurdish people were central to this historic moment. Despite the challenges and setbacks, the referendum represented the culmination of decades of efforts to achieve a peaceful and democratic path to independence. Barzani's legacy as a leader who tirelessly championed the Kurdish cause will continue to inspire future generations in their pursuit of freedom and justice.