Connor Hayes speaks with Nilüfer Koç, chair of the Commission on Foreign Relations of the Kurdistan National Congress (KNK), on the escalating tensions between the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) in Northern Iraq/South Kurdistan in the context of Turkey’s war against the Kurds, and the urgent need for Kurdish unity. 

Topics of discussion include situating these developments into historical and geopolitical context, the background and role of international actors in the present situation, and actions that are being taken to promote dialogue and prevent conflict.

Nilüfer Koç is the former co-chair of the Kurdistan National Congress (KNK). The KNK, sometimes referred to as the ‘Parliament in Exile’ of Kurdistan, operates as a representative body for organisations from all four parts of Kurdistan, and seeks to promote unity and dialogue amongst the various Kurdish political parties. Presently, Nilüfer serves on the executive council of the KNK, as the chair of the Commission on Foreign Relations. She has worked extensively in multiple regions of Kurdistan, including Iraqi Kurdistan.

Connor Hayes is an activist, researcher, and a lover of philosophy. He was a member of the 2019 International Peace Delegation to Imrali.

This interview is sponsored by the Peace in Kurdistan Campaign.