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Conflict in Kirkuk: A Comparative Perspective of Cross-regional Self-determination Disputes

Abstract There has been a failure to address the future of Kirkuk through political means, whilst tensions are once again coming to the fore there is a real risk that Kirkuk’s future will be decided by force. This article examines the political options available for Kirkuk based on the resolution of similar issues of conflict in Northern Ireland and Brčko, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Based on the advances made in these cases the article suggests that exogenous actors will have to play a role in reaching an agreement in Kirkuk, that a special status for Kirkuk is necessary, and that power sharing needs to be properly institutionalised.