Abstract:

Abstract enThis study relies on the latent core of the Iraqi Turkmens regarding sectarian conflicts and groups that have been major topics and classifications of Iraq especially since 2003. In search of parameters and impacts of post-2003 sectarian conflict, this study examines the case of Tal Afar, a town of mass strifes of Iraqi Turkmens. In the first instance, how to approach theoretically to sectarianism will be investigated in the light of primordialism, instrumentalism and constructivism. Accordingly, the present approaches have been underdeveloped in the analysis of sectarianism but a modified instrumentalism can be recruited especially to understand Tal Afar. In the second instance, why and how the conflict occurred in Tal Afar will be discussed. It will be argued that security forces, insurgent groups and tribes emerged as main drivers of sectarianism, American practices catalyzed their activities, and sectarian images, insecurity environment and tribal order rendered sectarianism sustainable. In the third instance, the results of the survey that was conducted among DAESH-victim Iraqi Turkmen refugees in Ankara to measure the magnitude of sectarianism will be presented. Findings will indicate that sectarianism lacks large social base but has significant constructive power and coercivity.

Keywords: