Yazidi leaders urge urgent reconstruction, justice for Sinjar

ERBIL – In a panel yesterday at the MERI Forum titled “Sinjar: Reconstruction, Recovery, and Return of the Displaced,” Yazidi leaders and advocates highlighted the persistent challenges facing the Yazidi community, urgently calling for comprehensive reconstruction in Sinjar and the dignified return of displaced families. Princess Mayan Khairi Saeed Beg and journalist Talal Murad underscored the necessity of legal protections, social reintegration, and global recognition of the Yazidi genocide, detailing the hardships Yazidis continue to endure nearly a decade after ISIS’s attacks.

Princess Mayan stressed the difficulties Yazidi women still confront, stating, “Many of our mothers and sisters remain missing with no trace in the hands of ISIS. And those rescued face significant challenges, as psychological support has been limited. With adequate support, they could reintegrate into society, yet such reintegration has been minimal.”

According to the Yazidi Rescue Office, of the 6,417 Yazidis abducted by ISIS in 2014, 3,583 have been rescued, while others remain missing, leaving families in uncertainty about their loved ones.

Addressing the lack of action, Princess Mayan added, “For the last 10 years, we have taken our grievances and demands to bodies ranging from the Iraqi government to the UN and the Kurdistan Regional Government. We urgently need the full implementation of the law supporting ISIS survivors, as many still experience compensation delays or lack basic support.”

She also highlighted the conditions in displacement camps: “The camps are rife with hardship, causing economic and emotional exhaustion. The Iraqi Ministry of Migration aims to facilitate return to Sinjar, but we insist on a dignified return. This requires local administration, services, and a dedicated budget for reconstruction.”

Princess Mayan emphasized that returning Yazidis should not move from tents in camps to inadequate shelters in Sinjar: “We call upon the Iraqi government, the Kurdistan Region, and international bodies for official recognition of the Yazidi genocide. While some countries have acknowledged it, we seek comprehensive recognition.”

Journalist Talal Murad noted that, even a decade after the ISIS genocide, 70% of Yazidis remain in displacement camps, with only 30% returning to Sinjar. He cited administrative and structural issues, adding, “Justice has not been served, and laws intended for Sinjar’s rebuilding are still unimplemented. Sinjar lacks healthcare facilities and even basic surgical services.”

Addressing educational deficits, he continued, “Schools are severely understaffed, and resources are limited. Classrooms operate in three shifts due to shortages, leaving students without necessary materials and teachers.”

Murad concluded by emphasizing the long road to restoring trust among local communities: “Before, there was no community divide in Sinjar. ISIS shattered this harmony, with former neighbors aiding ISIS, looting, and participating in the genocide against Yazidis. It will take years to rebuild trust, and accountability is essential for those who assisted ISIS.”