Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani marked the anniversary of the 2017 referendum with a strong message. He said the Kurdistan referendum anniversary represents the will of the Kurdish people. He described it as a victory for the nation and a moment of hope.
Barzani congratulated Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, families of martyrs, and the Peshmerga forces. He also extended greetings to the people of Kurdistan. He called the Kurdistan referendum anniversary a day of pride, aspiration, and determination.
The 2017 referendum was held with large participation. More than 92 percent voted in favor of independence, with a turnout of 72 percent. The Kurdistan referendum anniversary continues to carry emotional and political weight across the region.
Baghdad rejected the referendum results. Iraqi leaders argued that the process broke the constitution. Soon after, the federal government imposed financial and political measures on the Kurdistan Region. At the same time, Turkiye and Iran expressed concerns. Both feared that the event could inspire similar separatist moves within their borders.
Despite opposition, Kurdish leaders insist that the vote was democratic. They say it expressed the voice of a people who endured decades of persecution and violence. They argue that the referendum gave citizens a platform to show their political will.
Barzani emphasized that the anniversary is not just about the past. He noted that it stands as a symbol of endurance and unity for future generations. He encouraged the people of Kurdistan to remain hopeful and united despite regional challenges.
The Kurdish leadership also highlighted the importance of dialogue with Baghdad. They stressed the need for fair solutions to disputes over revenue, governance, and constitutional rights. For them, the referendum remains a milestone that reflects identity, sacrifice, and national spirit.
As celebrations and reflections take place, Kurdish voices continue to frame the anniversary as both a reminder of challenges and a guide for the future. The referendum remains frozen, yet its symbolic value grows each year. Leaders describe it as proof of resilience and the unshaken will of the Kurdish people.