KRP Nechirvan Barzani: 1991 Uprising Key to Kurdistan’s Success
"The people of Kurdistan, with a firm belief in the justice of their cause, united and together, on the basis of freedom, dignity, and justice, rose up and opened the door to a new future,” KRP Barzani stated.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – On the 34th anniversary of the historic 1991 Kurdish Uprising, Kurdistan Region President (KRP) Nechirvan Barzani reaffirmed the significance of the event in shaping Kurdistan’s present-day federalism, constitutional achievements, and political influence.
In a commemorative message, he called for unity and collective responsibility to safeguard the hard-won rights and progress achieved since the uprising.
Kurdistan Region's President Nechirvan Barzani extended his congratulations to the families of martyrs, the heroic Peshmerga forces, and all people of Kurdistan, recognizing their role in the struggle for freedom and justice.
He described the uprising as a turning point in the Kurdish people’s fight against dictatorship and oppression, emphasizing that their determination and sacrifices laid the foundation for the region’s current status within Iraq’s federal framework.
“The uprising was a historical and decisive turning point and the iron will of the Kurdish people in confronting dictatorship and oppression. The people of Kurdistan, with a firm belief in the justice of their cause, united and together, on the basis of freedom, dignity, and justice, rose up and opened the door to a new future,” KRP Barzani stated. He stressed that this movement was not an isolated event but rather the culmination of a long struggle and immense sacrifices by the Kurdish people and the Peshmerga, aimed at securing their legitimate rights within a new Iraq.
The Regional President underscored that federalism, constitutional recognition, and Kurdistan’s current role and influence are the direct results of the uprising. He stressed the need for unity and collaboration among all Kurdish political factions and components of society to protect these achievements for future generations. “Protecting the achievements and securing the rights of our future generations can be done through unity, solidarity, and understanding among all forces and components. The regional situation and internal and external challenges require all of us to work with a spirit of shared responsibility, learn from the lessons of the past, and protect the general interests of our people.”
His remarks come at a time of political and security challenges, both internally and externally. The Kurdistan Region continues to navigate complex relations with Baghdad, regional powers, and the broader international community. KRP Barzani’s message reinforced the idea that continued progress depends on political cohesion, diplomacy, and commitment to democratic values.
He further stressed the importance of strengthening peaceful coexistence and democratic governance, urging future generations to build upon the uprising’s legacy. “In order to fulfill the desires and aspirations of Kurdistanis for a better future and progress, we must strengthen the foundations of peaceful coexistence, strengthen the culture of mutual acceptance, consolidate democracy, and joint work with a spirit of national responsibility,” he said.
The Kurdish Uprising of March 1991 was a pivotal moment in Kurdish history, marking the beginning of a new era that eventually led to the establishment of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). Following the collapse of Saddam Hussein’s control in northern Iraq, the uprising enabled the creation of an autonomous Kurdish administration, later reinforced by international protection under the no-fly zone imposed by the United States and its allies.
While the Kurdistan Region has made substantial progress in governance, security, and international recognition, KRP Barzani’s message serves as a reminder that these gains must be actively defended and strengthened. His call for national unity and forward-thinking policies reflects the ongoing need to navigate challenges while preserving the aspirations of the Kurdish people.
As Kurdistan commemorates the sacrifices and resilience of its people, the 34th anniversary of the uprising stands as a reaffirmation of the struggle for self-determination and the continuous efforts to uphold democracy, human rights, and regional stability. KRP Barzani concluded his message by honoring the martyrs of the uprising, pledging to uphold their legacy, and reaffirming the commitment to peaceful progress and dialogue.
“Salute to the pure souls of the martyrs of the Uprising and all martyrs of Kurdistan. May the memory of the Uprising always remain high and dignified.”
