Kurdish researchers have launched a scientific survey inviting members of the Kurdish diaspora to share their experiences and perspectives on returning to Kurdistan, with the aim of identifying the obstacles they face and proposing solutions.
Dr. Abdulrahman Darwish told the official KDC website that the survey is being conducted according to scientific research standards and that its findings will later be published in a specialized academic journal.
The research is being carried out jointly by Dr. Darwish, a professor at Soran University, and Dr. Sami Maty, a professor at the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom.
Identifying barriers to return
According to Dr. Darwish, the study seeks to identify the factors that affect the relationship between the Kurdish diaspora and their homeland, as well as the challenges that discourage or prevent their return.
The research will also examine issues that require solutions in order to encourage members of the Kurdish diaspora to return and contribute their knowledge, skills, and expertise to the service and development of Kurdistan.
Building on previous research
Dr. Darwish said he has previously conducted another survey on the return of the Kurdish diaspora alongside Dr. Sami Matin and Adalat Omar.
That earlier research focused on the impact of the Anfal campaign and genocide on Kurdish society and how those experiences have influenced the decision of many members of the Kurdish diaspora not to return.
According to the study’s findings, the experiences of Anfal and genocide have left a profound psychological impact on many Kurds, creating fear and anxiety that have led some individuals to choose to remain abroad rather than return to what they perceive as the risk of renewed persecution.
International relevance
Dr. Darwish said the findings of the current research will also be presented to the international academic community.
He explained that the study explores the relationship between genocide prevention and reducing migration, arguing that preventing atrocities such as Anfal and genocide could help reduce forced migration and offer lessons applicable to countries and societies around the world.
Members of the Kurdish diaspora can participate in the survey through the online questionnaire, with all submitted information remaining confidential.
The link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.asp