Iraqi President Salih meets with Yezidi activist Nadia Murad to discuss current situation of Yezidi people

BAGHDAD — Iraqi President Barham Salih received Yezidi activist Nadia Murad at Al-Salam Palace in Baghdad on Monday. During the meeting, Salih praised the efforts made by Murad to convey to the whole world the tragedy of the Yezidi people and expressed his appreciation for the sacrifices and courage of the Yezidis in the face of terrorism.

Salih also revealed his support for the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of displaced Yezidis and other Iraqis who were forced to emigrate in the wake of the Islamic State’s destructive reign. He also stressed the need to overcome political and administrative obstacles that prevent justice for the families of victims of the Islamic State, in addition to organizing the administration in Shingal (Sinjar) and increasing security, material aid, and the provision of basic services.

Salih expressed his hope to accelerate the legislation of the Yezidi female survivors’ law by the House of Representatives and expand the law to cover other affected peoples. He also expressed his hope in intensifying efforts to discover the fates of the missing and kidnap persons and rescue the survivors.

Murad stated that she will continue to work for the Yezidi people and those affected by terrorism.

Nadia Murad was captured in Shingal and forced into slavery by the Islamic State in 2014. She became an activist on behalf of women and girls after fleeing to Germany and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2018 for her humanitarian efforts.