Washington, DC, September 22, 2017- During this period of uncertainty in northern Iraq, IDC calls on the central and regional governments in Iraq to be especially mindful of vulnerable minority communities amid increased tensions, particularly those who have suffered genocide and other crimes at the hands of ISIS and other actors. IDC also asks the U.S. government and the United Nations to be especially vigilant about the safety of Yazidis, Christians, and other indigenous communities in northern Iraq.
The U.S. government, the United Nations, and NGOs should continue to monitor the treatment of Yazidis, Christians, and other vulnerable indigenous peoples in northern Iraq’s disputed territories. Those who exploit these vulnerable peoples should be held accountable.
This situation further highlights why IDC and other organizations and human rights groups have called for the United Nations and the community of civilized nations to work for the establishment of a safe zone, or interim zones of stability, in northern Iraq during this period of return, rebuilding, and possible political transition.