Kurdish Identity in a Fragmented Iran: Politics of Belonging and Exclusion

Abstract

The Kurdish identity in Iran exists at the intersection of cultural resilience, political marginalisation, and socio-economic exclusion. This paper examines how Kurdish communities in Iran navigate the politics of belonging and exclusion within a fragmented national framework. The Kurdish population, concentrated in the western provinces, has historically faced systemic marginalisation exacerbated by Iran’s centralist policies and ethno-religious diversity. While Kurdish culture and language serve as crucial markers of identity, their suppression through state-imposed assimilation policies has deepened feelings of alienation. This study explores the dual dynamics of inclusion and exclusion, focusing on state policies, regional geopolitics, and internal Kurdish socio-political fragmentation. The Iranian state’s rhetoric of national unity often clashes with the lived experiences of Kurdish communities, who perceive exclusion in political representation, economic development, and cultural recognition. Moreover, Kurdish political movements, ranging from reformist to separatist, reflect divergent visions of self-determination and engagement with the state, further complicating the politics of belonging. At the regional level, Iran’s interactions with neighbouring countries hosting Kurdish populations, such as Iraq and Turkey, influence its internal Kurdish policies. The geopolitical interests of the state intersect with fears of transnational Kurdish solidarity, leading to the securitization of Kurdish areas. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this study highlights the evolving strategies of Kurdish communities to assert their identity while navigating exclusion.