KDP (Kurdistan Democratic Party)

The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) is a major political and military organization in Iraqi Kurdistan, advocating for Kurdish rights, autonomy, and independence. Founded in 1946 by Mustafa Barzani, it has played a key role in regional politics, promoting Kurdish self-governance and cultural identity. The KDP operates as a political party, participating in elections, and maintains its own armed wing, the Peshmerga, to defend Kurdish territories. It generally promotes a moderate nationalist stance, working within Iraq's political framework while seeking greater autonomy for Kurds. The party is a significant player in Kurdish and Iraqi regional affairs.