Crimes against the Yazidis: impact and international response

About this event

Crimes against the Yazidis: Community Impact and International Response Throughout their long history, the Yazidis, one of the oldest religious groups in the Middle East, have been subjected to numerous atrocities. In August 2014, on and around the holy mountain of Sinjar, the Yazidi community were again targeted, this time by the self-proclaimed Islamic State. Much of the region has been destroyed. Although Sinjar has been liberated since November 2015, reconstruction of necessary facilities that could enable the community's return has been slow. Most people still live in camps, few have had access to adequate psychological care, and the community remains vulnerable. In these ways, not only is the physical survival of the Yazidis threatened but so is their cultural and spiritual survival. A critical discussion of the international community's response, discourse, and framing of the situation of the Yazidis is needed. This symposium aims to bring together politicians, legal experts, academics, and humanitarian aid organizations to raise awareness about the current situation of the Yazidi community, both in the Middle East and the diaspora, and explores various topics pertinent to the future of the Yazidi community including the prosecution of crimes committed against the Yazidis, reconciliation between local communities, and reconstruction of the Sinjar region. Ticket reservations (free of charge) via Humanity House; lunch included. Address: Humanity House, Prinsegracht 8, 2512 GA The Hague, Netherlands