On the 10th anniversary of the Yazidi genocide, communities in Iraq continue working for recovery and healing and demand action
Iraq, 3 August 2024 – On the 10th anniversary of the Yazidi genocide, communities have gathered in Sinjar to commemorate the mass atrocities of that time and continue civilian-led efforts toward recovery and healing, calling upon international actors to safeguard Yazidi civilians and strengthen their ongoing recovery and resilience.
“Today reminds us of the pain and trauma caused by IS ten years ago. Despite this, we remain dedicated to supporting women who continue to suffer," said Jamila*, a member of the Sinjar Women’s Peace Team (WPT), a group of local women active since January 2024, who work together on protection and peacebuilding in Sinjar.
Members of the Sinjar WPT were present alongside community members and other Community Protection Teams (CPTs) as part of commemoration events held this weekend, a significant milestone in the community’s journey of healing and remembrance. The commemorations were held at the Yazidi Genocide Memorial in Solagh, Sinjar, a powerful symbol of the Yazidi community’s enduring strength and collective effort to honor those who were lost. It provides a critical space for families to seek closure and commemorate their loved ones, whose remains have yet to be recovered.
Despite some progress, such as the implementation of the Yazidi Survivor Law, substantial challenges remain. Community protection leaders emphasized the need for ongoing action, noting ongoing harms that are yet to be addressed: “Our foremost demands are the return of kidnapped women and the exhumation of all mass graves. Although the government occasionally initiates efforts to address these issues, they often fall short of completion. We are left questioning the efficacy of these endeavors when promises to remain unfulfilled,” shared Farhad*, a member of the Sinjar CPT.
In addition, many Yazidi families continue to face acute insecurity and lack access to essential services. Persistent issues related to trauma and displacement, including the urgent need for mental health and psychosocial support. Ongoing, sustained, and comprehensive international support remains crucial.
“Our hope is that our message reaches the international community, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced protection of minorities and measures to prevent further violence,” said Jamila.
Nonviolent Peaceforce has worked in Iraq since 2017, focusing on protection and peacebuilding across communities. NP currently works in Ninewa Governorate, alongside communities affected by IS, to prevent the re-emergence of violence and foster resilience.
*Pseudonyms.