Kurds Under Threat: The Role of Kurdish Transnational Networks During Peace and Conflict

This book examines the transnational networks between Kurdish organizations and their support for each other during conflict-peace cycle events. It finds that political rationality and external threats are stronger predictors of political behavior than ethnic ties, and helps scholars and policy makers evaluate the impact of these networks in cases of civil war.

Format: Hardback
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 30 August 2021
Publisher: Lexington Books

Previous studies have explored the impact of transnational ethnic ties on the relationship between host states and diasporas, as well as the factors that drive states and ethnic minorities in the diaspora to support violent rebel organizations in their homeland. While these studies have shed light on these complex dynamics, they have largely ignored the relationships among co-ethnic organizations that do not have a homeland government. This book aims to address this gap by examining the following critical questions: How and when do co-ethnic Kurdish organizations provide open support for each other during conflict-peace cycle events? Additionally, does the presence of external threats impact the relationship among co-ethnic organizations? The primary objective of this research is to identify the causal factors that shape the transnational networks between Kurdish organizations.

Research findings indicate that political rationality and external threats hold greater sway over political behavior than ethnic ties in the Kurdish context. This study provides valuable insights for scholars and policy makers in assessing the impact of transnational networks between co-ethnic Kurdish organizations in cases of civil war. It also helps to understand the role of these organizations in fostering sustainable peace in conflict-ridden regions.

Transnational ethnic ties play a significant role in shaping the dynamics between host states and diasporas. These ties can create both opportunities and challenges for states and ethnic minorities in the diaspora. On the one hand, they can facilitate communication, cooperation, and cultural exchange, which can promote mutual understanding and strengthen social bonds. On the other hand, they can also contribute to tensions, conflicts, and even violence, as ethnic groups compete for resources, power, and recognition.

The relationship between host states and diasporas is further complicated by the presence of violent rebel organizations. These organizations can exploit the grievances and aspirations of ethnic minorities in the diaspora to gain support and recruit members. They can also pose a threat to the stability and security of host states, particularly in regions where ethnic minorities are marginalized or oppressed.

Previous studies have examined the factors that drive states and ethnic minorities in the diaspora to support violent rebel organizations. These factors include political ideology, economic interests, social marginalization, and cultural identity. However, these studies have largely ignored the role of co-ethnic organizations in these dynamics.

Co-ethnic organizations are groups of individuals who share a common ethnic identity and often have a shared history, culture, and language. They can play a crucial role in promoting peace and stability in conflict-ridden regions. For example, they can provide humanitarian aid, support local governance, and advocate for the rights of ethnic minorities. They can also serve as a platform for dialogue and reconciliation between different ethnic groups.

However, the relationship between co-ethnic organizations and violent rebel organizations can be complex and multifaceted. On the one hand, some co-ethnic organizations may support violent rebel organizations due to political or ideological reasons. On the other hand, some may oppose these organizations due to their negative impact on the local community or their disregard for human rights.

External threats, such as state repression, military intervention, and economic sanctions, can also impact the relationship between co-ethnic organizations. These threats can create divisions and tensions within co-ethnic communities, as individuals may feel compelled to align themselves with either the state or the rebel organization to protect themselves and their families.

In conclusion, the impact of transnational ethnic ties on the relationship between host states and diasporas is complex and multifaceted. While these ties can create opportunities for cooperation and cultural exchange, they can also contribute to tensions, conflicts, and violence. The relationship between co-ethnic organizations and violent rebel organizations is particularly complex and multifaceted, with some organizations supporting these organizations due to political or ideological reasons, while others oppose them due to their negative impact on the local community or their disregard for human rights. External threats, such as state repression, military intervention, and economic sanctions, can also impact the relationship between co-ethnic organizations, creating divisions and tensions within these communities. Understanding the dynamics between these groups is crucial for promoting peace and stability in conflict-ridden regions.

Weight: 481g
Dimension: 229 x 160 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793643339