Gun Violence: From Cases to Becoming a Phenomenon in Kurdistan Region

By: Danar Rebar

A recent incident occurred in Sulaymaniyah, where an 18-year-old male residing on Kani Kurdakan Street murdered his father. The subsequent investigation revealed that an illegal weapon was used in the crime. Unfortunately, such cases have become increasingly frequent in Sulaymaniyah over the past two months. What were once isolated incidents have now become a concerning phenomenon, posing a direct threat to the security of the people in the Kurdistan region.

Murdering and suicide have emerged as significant and ongoing social issues in the Kurdistan region. Karzan Amir, the spokesperson of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) General Directorate of Police, recently released statistics for suicides and murders in 2022. The data reveals that 240 people took their own lives, while 215 individuals were killed. Among the fatalities, 183 were intentional homicides, while 32 were accidental deaths.

Distrust between the people and the judicial system stands out as one of the primary reasons why individuals resort to traditional and barbaric methods of resolving social issues. There is a prevailing belief that court cases are not resolved promptly, and even when they are settled, perpetrators can evade punishment through bribery and corruption.

It is crucial for us to reflect on the underlying reasons behind these acts of violence. The shift from isolated cases to a pervasive phenomenon demands our attention. Unfortunately, the Kurdistan regional government has shown little inclination to deeply investigate and analyze these incidents, nor have they addressed the factors leading individuals to resort to murder. Our society, being closed and private, tends to keep social and family issues hidden from official and relevant parties, thereby hindering thorough investigations by the authorities.

Additionally, several other factors contribute to the rise in murder incidents. Economic and political crises, escalating unemployment rates, the misuse of communication devices, and psychological motives all contribute to the promotion of violent acts. The Kurdistan regional government has not been effective in preventing the proliferation of illegal weapons among the population. The possession of such weapons can lead to tragic consequences for individuals and society as a whole.

Dr. Zubeida Seyid Salih, a social researcher and expert in sociology, highlights the widespread availability of weapons among the youth as a key factor in the escalating gun violence. This accessibility makes committing murder easier and more likely. Dr. Salih further explains that technological advancements have resulted in increased isolation among youths, leading to a host of mental health issues. She also emphasizes the role of media, which, by highlighting the disparities between highly developed countries and our region, fosters feelings of hopelessness among young people, contributing to thoughts of suicide and murder.”

The government must prioritize implementing immediate changes and intensifying efforts to reduce and prevent such cases. This can be achieved through widespread awareness campaigns targeting the youth, who represent the hope of our nation. It is crucial to emphasize the importance of rejecting irrelevant traditional norms that promote violence.

There are numerous avenues available to bring about change, including incorporating relevant topics into educational curricula, implementing various programs, and engaging governments, stakeholders, and organizations. By working collectively, these entities can help cultivate individuals who are less inclined to engage in violent acts.