Chaldean Church reveals exodus of families from Baghdede, Iraq

BAGHDEDE, Iraq — Amidst mounting challenges and dwindling rights for Christians in Iraq, Chaldean Patriarch Mar Louis Raphael Sako disclosed the emigration of 100 families from the Nineveh Plains town of Baghdede (Qaraqosh / Hamdaniyah), Iraq, in recent months.

The exodus reflects a broader trend of diminishing Christian presence in Iraq, with a reported 75% decrease in Christian residents since the 2003 war, many facing severe persecution.

Patriarch Sako attributed the emigration to the lack of stability and equality for Christians, coupled with ongoing attacks and property theft, amidst inadequate government protection.

Matthew Barnes from Open Doors highlighted societal pressures faced by early Christians, noting a demographic shift in Nineveh Plains as Islamic groups acquire Christian lands and properties, sometimes through legal means, exacerbating the community’s plight.

Barnes emphasized the Federal Supreme Court’s decision to invalidate minority seats in Parliament, effectively erasing Christian recognition within Iraq’s political landscape, further marginalizing the community.

The wave of emigration has left churches increasingly empty, posing a challenge for church members and leaders, who express frustration over dwindling congregations.

Open Doors urged the government to heed Patriarch Sako’s calls, advocating for the restoration of parliamentary representation for Christians and the protection of their lands, urging recognition and safeguarding of the Christian community’s rights in Iraq.