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.”
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What potential impacts could arise from the reported violations before the census, particularly regarding representation of minority groups like the Turkmen?
**Interview with Dr. Ahmad al-Turkmeni, Political Analyst and Member of the Iraqi Turkmen Front**
**Editor:** Good afternoon, Dr. al-Turkmeni. Thank you for joining us to discuss the significant moment in Iraq as the country conducts its first national census in nearly 40 years. Can you share your thoughts on the importance of this census?
**Dr. al-Turkmeni:** Good afternoon. Yes, this census is crucial for Iraq. For decades, we’ve lacked accurate demographic data, which hampers effective governance and resource allocation. Knowing the population distribution by ethnicity and region can help in planning for infrastructure, education, and healthcare, ultimately fostering national unity and development.
**Editor:** The Iraqi Turkmen Front has mentioned that it observed violations before the census commenced. Can you elaborate on what these violations entail and their potential impact?
**Dr. al-Turkmeni:** Certainly. We noticed irregularities such as improper documentation and a lack of transparency leading up to the census. These inconsistencies, if not addressed, could skew the results, affecting representation and resource distribution. Accurate demographic data is vital for ensuring that Turkmen and other minority groups receive fair representation and services.
**Editor:** Considering the sensitivities around ethnic representation in Iraq, what measures should be taken to ensure the census is conducted fairly and transparently?
**Dr. al-Turkmeni:** It is essential for the Iraqi government to involve civil society organizations as observers during the census process. Transparency in methodology and public access to results can build trust. Additionally, training enumerators to respect local customs and sensibilities can enhance cooperation from the communities.
**Editor:** what do you foresee as the long-term implications of this census for Iraq’s political landscape?
**Dr. al-Turkmeni:** This census could redefine political alliances and resource allocations in Iraq, especially for marginalized groups like the Turkmen. If conducted transparently, it could lead to a more inclusive governmental structure, promoting stability. Conversely, if mishandled, it might exacerbate tensions among different ethnic groups.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. al-Turkmeni, for sharing your insights on this critical issue. We’ll be watching closely as the census unfolds.
**Dr. al-Turkmeni:** Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a successful and fair process for the benefit of all Iraqis.
