Iraq – The Iraqi Turkmen Front reported that it had observed violations before the start of the population census, which begins today in the country and continues tomorrow, Thursday, in which families were brought from outside Kirkuk Governorate to register.
The Front confirmed in a statement yesterday, Tuesday, that it is closely following population census developments in Kirkuk Governorate in particular.
She talked about bringing hundreds of families from the cities of Erbil and Sulaymaniyah, to register them in Kirkuk records, on the eve of the start of the population census.
She pointed out that the checkpoints at the entrances to Kirkuk from Erbil and Sulaymaniyah are witnessing heavy traffic congestion, stressing that it has been verified that the arriving families are not residents of the governorate.
The “Turkmen Front” warned that this step “aims to change the true identity and demographic composition of Kirkuk.”
She also stressed that the Turkmen of Iraq will not remain spectators in the face of such developments, calling on the Iraqi Federal Court and the central government to take the necessary measures regarding this matter.
Iraq is preparing to conduct a general population census on November 20 and 21, without asking citizens questions about their race or sect.
The last population census was conducted in Iraq in 1997, and at that time it did not include 3 governorates in the northern Iraqi region, and it included questions that revealed the ethnic and religious characteristics of the population.
The Iraqi government decided not to include questions related to ethnic and sectarian affiliation in the upcoming population census, “to avoid any division within society consisting of different components.”
Anatolia
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What are the expected social and political impacts of the first census in Iraq after 27 years?
**Interview with Dr. Amina Al-Hakim, Political Analyst & Sociologist**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Al-Hakim. As we know, Iraq is currently conducting its first census in 27 years—what significance does this hold for the country?
**Dr. Al-Hakim:** Thank you for having me. This census is a critical moment for Iraq, not just demographically but politically and socially. It will provide updated data that can influence resource allocation, representational dynamics in governance, and even regional stability. It’s particularly important for minority groups, as accurate representation can affect their rights and resources.
**Interviewer:** We’ve seen reports from the Iraqi Turkmen Front highlighting violations observed before the census began. Can you elaborate on what these might involve?
**Dr. Al-Hakim:** Yes, the Iraqi Turkmen Front has raised concerns about potential irregularities, such as discrepancies in how different communities are counted or even pressures that could influence the census results. Historically, various ethnic and sectarian groups in Iraq have faced challenges in ensuring their populations are accurately represented, which can exacerbate tensions.
**Interviewer:** Given these concerns, how do you think the Iraqi government can ensure a transparent and fair census process?
**Dr. Al-Hakim:** Transparency is vital. The government must engage with community leaders and provide clear guidelines on the census process. Independent oversight can help mitigate accusations of bias or manipulation. Additionally, involving international observers could add a layer of credibility to the process.
**Interviewer:** With the two-day curfew imposed during the census to maintain order, how do you see this affecting public participation?
**Dr. Al-Hakim:** The curfew is intended to enhance security, but it could also hinder participation if people feel anxious about the restrictions. Ensuring that the population understands the purpose of the census and feels safe to participate is crucial. Public awareness campaigns would be beneficial in fostering a sense of community responsibility towards the census.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Al-Hakim, for your insights. This census indeed seems to be a pivotal moment for Iraq as it navigates its complex socio-political landscape.
**Dr. Al-Hakim:** Thank you for the discussion. It is crucial that we all pay attention to the implications of this census, and I hope for a successful and fair process.
