KRG's Relentless Pursuit of Justice for Yezidi Genocide Victims Highlighted at International Conference

ERBIL - The Kurdistan Region’s Coordinator for International Advocacy Dr. Dindar Zebari emphasized the KRG's unwavering commitment to achieving justice for the victims of the Yezidi genocide since the horrific events of 2014.

This declaration was made during a significant international conference on genocide and crimes against humanity, jointly organized by Salahaddin University, Canada-based Northern Justice Watch (NJW), RABA organization and Green Desert.

In his opening address, the Coordinator for International Advocacy Dr. Dindar Zebari underscored the KRG's extensive endeavors to secure justice, protect human rights, and provide reparations for the Yezidi victims.

He highlighted the significant recognition by influential international bodies that the atrocities perpetrated against the Yezidis constitute genocide and international crimes.

To guarantee justice for all victims of religious, ethnic, and sectarian violence, Zebari stressed the necessity for a unified mechanism to investigate international crimes. This mechanism, established through coordination between relevant parties, would facilitate the prosecution of ISIS criminals and ensure compensation for victims and their families.

Addressing the KRG's cooperation with international entities in pursuing terrorists, he outlined the collaboration with the UN Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da'esh/ISIL (UNITAD). Through meticulous investigations involving witnesses and the collection of extensive documentation, this partnership has enabled the compilation of comprehensive evidence against ISIS.

Zebari further emphasized the ongoing plight of Yezidi survivors, noting that the Kurdistan Region continues to shelter over 730,000 internally displaced persons, a significant number of whom are Yezidis. The KRG's dedication to supporting survivors is evident in the provision of monthly aid to 3,579 rescued individuals and the facilitated psychological treatment for over 1,200 survivors in Germany.

The conference served as a powerful reminder of the immense sacrifices made by the Kurdistan Peshmerga Forces in liberating areas from ISIS control, including the loss of 1,814 martyrs and 10,725 wounded soldiers.

The event witnessed participation from diverse stakeholders, including the Canadian Consulate, members of the Kurdistan Parliament, representatives from various ministries and organizations such as UNAMI, UNCHR, Lalish Cultural Center, The Independent Commission for Human Rights – ICHR, Duhok Cultural Center, High Council for Women and Development, Hengaw Organization for Human Rights, Kurdistan Women Union (KWU), DCV and CFI Organizations, EMMA Organization, Aviar Environmental Awareness Organization, and others, underscoring the global concern for justice and support for the Yezidi community.