Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian delegation advocates for minority rights in Washington

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A delegation representing Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian political parties in Iraq visited the United States, meeting with officials, researchers, and directors of influential institutions in Washington, D.C. The delegation was composed of prominent political figures, including head of the Bethnahrin Patriotic Union (Huyodo Bethnahrin Athroyo, HBA) Joseph Sliwa, Secretary General of the Assyrian Democratic Movement (Zowaa) Yakub Gorgis, member of Zowaa’s Political Bureau Adad Yusef, and Secretary General of the Assyrian National Party Emmanuel Khoshaba.

The delegation’s discussions focused on the challenges faced by Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian communities both in their homeland and the diaspora. They addressed the impact of regional and international political changes onc these communities and expressed concerns about the erosion of political partnership and democracy. The representatives emphasized the diminished role of national and religious minorities in political decision-making processes within their respective countries.

During the meetings, the delegation presented a vision for safeguarding ethnic components in the Middle East. They stressed the necessity of securing legal rights to ensure these communities can actively contribute to national development while preserving their cultural and linguistic heritage. The discussions also highlighted the urgency of preventing demographic changes that could jeopardize the future of these communities in their ancestral lands.

The delegation received a warm welcome during their visit and their participation in a religious freedoms conference. Their efforts underscored the importance of international support in addressing the challenges faced by Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian people, reaffirming their commitment to promoting inclusion, development, and stability for minorities in the region.