Şırnak Province
Delving into the unique landscape, rich history, and demographic composition of Turkey's southeastern frontier.
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Overview
Province in Turkey
Şırnak Province (Turkish: Şırnak ili, Kurdish: Parêzgeha Şirnexê) is a province located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region of Turkey. Established in 1990, it was formed from territories previously belonging to the Siirt, Hakkâri, and Mardin provinces. The province serves as a significant administrative division within the country.
Strategic Location
Şırnak Province holds a strategic position, bordering both the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and Syria. This geographical placement influences its historical development and regional dynamics.
Key Statistics
As of 2023, Şırnak Province had a population of 570,745 inhabitants. The province covers an area of 7,078 square kilometers (2,733 sq mi), resulting in a population density of approximately 80.64 people per square kilometer. The provincial capital and administrative seat is the city of Şırnak.
Geography
Mountainous Terrain and Plateaus
The topography of Şırnak Province is characterized by significant mountainous regions, particularly in its western and southern areas. However, the majority of the province is composed of plateaus, shaped by the extensive river systems that traverse the land.
River Systems
The province is crisscrossed by numerous rivers, most notably the Tigris River and its tributaries, including the Hezil and Kızılsu. The Çağlayan river also contributes to the region's hydrography.
Notable Peaks
Prominent mountains within Şırnak Province include Mount Cudi, reaching an elevation of 2,089 meters (6,854 ft). Other significant peaks contributing to the rugged landscape are Mount Gabar, Mount Namaz, and Mount Altın.
Districts
Administrative Divisions
Şırnak Province is administratively divided into seven districts. The central district is Şırnak itself. The districts are key components of the province's governance and organization.
Population Dynamics
The province has experienced population growth over the decades. Historical data indicates a steady increase, reflecting demographic shifts in the region.
Historical Context
Inspectorate-General Era
In the early 20th century, as part of efforts to consolidate state control and Turkify the population, the Inspectorate-General system was established. Şırnak Province, or its constituent parts, fell under the jurisdiction of the First Inspectorate General, which encompassed several southeastern provinces. This system granted broad authority to an Inspector General, overseeing civilian, judicial, and military matters. The office was eventually dissolved in 1952.
Formation and Conflict
Şırnak Province was officially created in 1990. Its establishment coincided with a period of heightened conflict in the region. From 1990 to 2002, the province was part of the State of Emergency (OHAL) region, established to counter the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). This era saw significant military operations and governance measures, including the power to relocate populations.
Demographics
Ethnic Composition
Şırnak Province is predominantly inhabited by a Kurdish majority. This demographic characteristic is a significant aspect of the province's identity and its historical context within Turkey.
Population Data
The province recorded a population of 570,745 in 2023. This figure represents a substantial increase from earlier census data, indicating demographic growth over recent decades.
Kurdish-Turkish Conflict
1992 Military Operation
In August 1992, Turkish forces launched a significant operation in Şırnak city. Reports from Amnesty International detail extensive destruction, with homes burned and livestock killed. Approximately 20,000 of the city's 25,000 residents fled during this period. The operation reportedly involved tanks and cannons, leading to widespread devastation and civilian casualties, predominantly women and children.
2015-2016 Clashes
The period of 2015-2016 saw renewed clashes in Şırnak city and its surrounding districts, including Cizre, İdil, and Silopi. A curfew was imposed in March 2016, initiating an 80-day military operation against PKK militants. This operation resulted in the destruction of an estimated 2,044 buildings and maintained a curfew for approximately nine months.
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References
References
- Kanun No. 3647, Resmî Gazete, 18 May 1990.
- amnesty.org
- 18 AUGUST 1992: WHEN ÅIRNAK WAS TURNED INTO A DEAD CITY
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
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