Geopolitical Competition in Sinjar District: International and Local Roles Amid Current Challenges and Future Prospects

Abstract

This study examines the geopolitical significance of Sinjar District in light of the political and security transformations that Iraq has experienced since 2003, particularly following the takeover by ISIS in 2014 and the subsequent multi-party interventions, The research highlights the role of Sinjar’s geographical location at the intersection of the Iraqi, Syrian, and Turkish borders in making it a highly sensitive strategic area and a focal point for regional and international interests. The study concludes that Sinjar’s strategic position has contributed to intensifying competition between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government, as well as to overlapping regional and international influences. In addition, the presence of multiple armed groups and weak administrative institutions has contributed to ongoing instability, The research emphasizes the necessity of establishing a unified administration, activating political agreements, and strengthening security and local development within a comprehensive strategic vision to achieve sustainable stability. The research consists of several chapters. The first chapter addresses the theoretical framework, the second chapter discusses geographical characteristics, and the third chapter examines geopolitical competition. The research concludes with findings and recommendations.

Any scientific research relies on a single methodology or a combination of methodologies to arrive at accurate and meaningful results. This study employed both inductive and descriptive approaches to produce a comprehensive and systematic research paper. To achieve this, data and information were collected from multiple sources, including books, scientific references, library visits, and reliable websites. Furthermore, ArcGIS 10.8 software was used to create maps and analyze spatial data, contributing to the accuracy and objectivity of the study's findings.