The rise of ISIL in 2014 attracted hundreds of young Iraqi Kurds, with around 530 joining, most killed in Syria and Iraq, and around 150 surrendering to KRI authorities (Kurdistan Region of Iraq). Recent arrests in Sulaymaniyah revealed ISIL’s plans to assassinate religious figures and Peshmerga commanders. The KRI has become increasingly polarized, driven by youth dissatisfaction, viewing the political class as “the other.” This polarization poses a significant risk for radicalization and violent extremism (VE). The study aims to identify drivers of VE in the KRI, conducting fieldwork in three locations with limited existing research. Despite two decades of experience in fighting extremism, the KRG lacks clear definitions of extremism, often framing it from a religious perspective. The findings highlight an environment conducive to VE in the KRI, with increasing polarization, anti-authority sentiments, and dissatisfied youth. Financial crises and internal political rivalry since 2014 contribute to the risk. While historical factors like Kurdish identity and spirituality have countered extremism, recent research suggests a diminishing sense of belonging among young Kurds, weakening this resilience against religiously framed VE.
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