A Macrostructure Analysis of the Discourse of the Iraqi House of Representatives on Kurdistan Independence Referendum

Abstract

 This study investigates the relationship between power dynamics, dominant ideologies, and implicit communication using critical discourse analysis (CDA). It focuses on the discourse from the Iraqi House of Representatives regarding the Kurdistan Region's independence Referendum. The study examines how power dynamics and ideologies are present in this discourse, employing Van Dijk's sociocognitive framework to uncover hidden ideological elements. The hypothesis suggests that the discourse highlights power struggles and dominant ideologies. The findings reveal that the Iraqi House of Representatives employs language to emphasize power dynamics and portray itself as safeguarding Iraq's unity. It also discusses how language is used to emphasize federal government authority, criticize Kurdistan Region officials, highlight consequences, gain regional support, and influence power dynamics in favor of the central government, illustrating the role of language in shaping perceptions and power relationships.