"Federalism Works": U.S. Scholar Hails Kurdistan's Stability, Urges Respect for Autonomy

By Kamaran Aziz

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Kurdistan Region’s growing ties with the United States and its sustained pursuit of economic development were praised by David Romano, Professor of Middle East Politics at Missouri State University, in an exclusive interview with Kurdistan24 on Friday. Romano emphasized that the Kurdistan Region continues to serve as a beacon of stability and a model of federalism in a volatile region, while calling on Washington to back Erbil's constitutional rights.

"Anytime Kurdistan Regional Government leaders get a visit to Washington, it's important," Romano stated. "What they're doing now is further cementing the business relationship between the Kurdistan Region and key sectors of the American economy. And they're getting the United States to clearly signal its continuing attachment to the Kurdistan Region and its economy and its welfare."

He underlined that the latest developments signify U.S. confidence in Kurdistan and a reaffirmation of its right to pursue independent economic initiatives. "It's a commitment from Washington to Hewler," Romano added.

Commenting on the recently signed agreements with HKN and WesternZagros, Romano observed, "I don't know if these two agreements signify any change... the signing of the oil deals is a continuation of the American approach to the Kurdistan Region."

He stressed that these agreements are legally sound, especially as they focus on domestic production. "It actually shouldn't pose a legal constitutional problem... the Kurdistan Region has a clear right to pursue its own development... These agreements look to be focused on especially domestic gas production for Iraqi needs. That's legal. There should be no question that that's constitutionally legal."

Romano expressed hope that the U.S. will encourage Baghdad to honor these constitutional provisions. "Washington will push Baghdad... not overreach with its attempt to centralize all authority... the Kurdistan Region has complete legal right to develop [new fields] as it sees fit."

Highlighting Kurdistan’s long-standing role as a U.S. partner, Romano noted, "The Kurdistan Region is a friendly, stable island for the United States... it's also a way to help them negotiate various initiatives with Baghdad."

He urged resolution of lingering disputes between Erbil and Baghdad, suggesting it could demonstrate how federalism can work effectively in the region. "If Baghdad and Erbil could resolve some of their remaining disagreements... Iraq in general could serve as a good example of how federalism can work."

Romano drew parallels with Syria, suggesting that Kurdistan’s experience offers valuable lessons. "Federalism can work very well... it reassures minorities, and Iraq is close to showing that it’s better than the alternatives."

He concluded by stating that Kurdistan's example should be seen as a model for decentralization and democracy: "They've avoided armed conflict for the most part... In a country like Syria, if they would like to build a better future, it should be an example to aspire to."

Romano reiterated the importance of U.S.-Kurdistan relations: "This is the kind of engagement, investments, relationships, and diplomatic initiatives that we're always happy to see."