Report on Bringing ISIS to Accountability

On September 16, the ISHR Iraq section presented a research paper at the Second International Conference on Genocide and Crimes Against Humanity in Erbil, Iraqi Kurdistan. The paper discussed strategies to hold ISIS accountable for its atrocities, particularly in relation to the Yazidi genocide.

Media Engagement on Human Rights Advocacy

Following the conference, Krmanj Othman, the ISHR-Iraq section president and Vice President Asia Pacific,  appeared on Rudaw and Kurdistan24 on September 17 to discuss ISIS crimes and the importance of human rights protection in Iraq.

International Day of the Disappeared

On August 30, ISHR Iraq led a session at the University of Halabja with the International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP). This event covered legal protections for missing persons, with a focus on safeguarding minority groups during conflicts.

Human Rights Training for Peshmerga Officials

ISHR Iraq conducted a workshop on August 20, focusing on human rights and international humanitarian law. Supported by KCIL and the German Federal Foreign Office, this session included 40 senior Peshmerga military personnel in Erbil.

Child Protection Initiatives

On August 15, ISHR Iraq participated in planning for the International Conference on Child Protection with the Kurdistan Board of Child Protection, providing legal guidance. Additionally, on August 13, ISHR Iraq contributed to a project at the Kurdistan Judicial Institute, supported by BCF, aimed at enhancing child rights in Kurdistan.

International Youth Day Observance

ISHR Iraq commemorated International Youth Day on August 13 by discussing UNSC Resolution 2250 and highlighting the role of youth in peacebuilding during a panel event.

Yezidi Genocide Remembrance

On August 5, ISHR Iraq attended the Yezidi Genocide anniversary event organized by the German, Dutch, and Canadian consulates in Erbil. Discussions addressed the genocide against Yezidis and Christians, emphasizing the need for justice and recognition.

Barzan Genocide Anniversary

To mark the anniversary of the Barzan genocide on July 31, Krmanj Othman spoke on Kurdistan24, examining past human rights abuses and advocating for the legal protection of Iraq’s minorities.

Preventing Violent Extremism in Kurdistan

On July 29, as a member of the Kurdistan Regional Board for Preventing Violent Extremism, ISHR Iraq attended its first meeting, supported by IOM. The Board’s mandate is to draft a national action plan to curb violent extremism within Kurdistan.

Written by Krmanj Othman