Messiah Foundation USA publicised the ‘Ban Wahhabism Campaign’ in Times Square, Manhattan, New York, one of the major commercial intersection and neighbourhoods in the U.S. The response from locals and tourists alike was wonderful! We came across people of all ages who agreed with our call to ban Wahhabism and signed our petition. Our team also distributed leaflets to passers-by and local shops. Overall, our visit was extremely successful and we will to continue raising awareness of the death cult of Wahhabism and its widespread in the USA.

Paris : Place de la République

Daesh Accountability March 2017

Photo: UK Mission to the UN/Lisa Englehart

‘Art for Peace Exhibition’ in Baghdad: Expressions of Peace, Reconciliation and Hope

Baghdad, 3 March 2017 - The beauty of Iraq truly stems from the roots of the country’s rich, historical culture. Despite the fact that Iraq is currently embroiled in a battle to weed out the terrorist group Daesh from its soil and the fact that Baghdad has to endure the brunt of frequent bombings and terrorist attacks, Iraq boasts a rather vibrant, elegant, expressive, artistic and peaceful cultural scene. It is this part of Iraq that brings together people from all walks of life - irrespective of age, creed, colour, race, or gender - in the spirit of oneness, an energetic spirit that binds one another to appreciate the peace, joy, comfort and neutrality that art brings to one’s imagination. The Art for Peace Exhibition in Baghdad, organised by the United Nations Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), in partnership with the National Reconciliation Committee of the Prime Minister’s office, could not have made this notion any clearer.

Held on Friday 03 March 2017 in the courtyard of the Baghdadi Cultural Centre located in the heart of Al-Mutannabi Street - one of the oldest and best known streets in Baghdad and affectionately referred to as the historical literary jewel in the city - over 70 paintings, caricatures, and photographs by Iraqi artists were on display. While each artist used a different medium of expression, the unifying factor was that each admirable simple piece of work expressed hope for peace among all the people in Iraq, and the yearning of peace and reconciliation for the future to build a free and flourishing world for generations to come. The Iraqi painters, photographers and caricaturists who participated in this first-ever Art for Peace project were commissioned to produce works that portrayed their messages for peaceful coexistence and harmony, reconciliation and hope.

The event itself is a stark illustration of the resilience of Iraqis who are enduring a devastating conflict with the terrorist Daesh group which is in its last throes in Mosul, and a terrorist bombing campaign that is deliberately targeting civilians in Baghdad and elsewhere. It shows that despite the ongoing conflict in Iraq, art remains the language that brings people together in peace and reconciliation. It also serves to counter the destruction by Daesh of historic sites and work of art work in the areas they controlled.

At the exhibition, the Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq (DSRSG) for Political and Electoral Affairs, Mr. György Busztin, reiterated the importance of art in disseminating messages of peace, reconciliation, tolerance and coexistence. “Such endeavours by talented Iraqi artists, illustrators, painters and photographers transcends ethnic and sectarian differences and constitute the bedrock for an inclusive national reconciliation that will usher in the stability and prosperity for all Iraqis”.

Raed Hassan, a young Iraqi caricaturist spends his time drawing images that are graphic and emotional but which carry explicit messages. He easily narrates how “having a peaceful Iraq is all that he wants, especially for the future of his children”. Mr. Hassan pointed to one of his images – one in which there is a long queue of people, albeit mostly men, who seem to be in despair and a prominent syringe jutting into the leader’s head, inscribed with the words “Peace”. Mr. Hassan is very attached to this piece of work and in probing him for a reason, he simply states: “Study the caricature carefully and see the simplicity of it all – all we need in Iraq is for everyone to inject the idea of peace in their minds, to be rid of all the evil and harmful notions, and to thus clean our minds and hearts so that ‘peace’ can filter into every vein and bone in our bodies”.

“What could be more powerful than this?” he asks.

As the winter clouds gave way to a clear blue sunny sky, the colours on the oil paintings on display were easily entwined in the warmth of the sun’s rays. Mohammed Musayir stood patiently next to his paintings, many of which portrayed his thoughts on reconciliation among all Iraqis. The one painting that stood out depicted tolerance of faith, with Mohammed saying that “faith has no face – which is why the lady in my painting has no face. She could represent Islam by the Abaya she adorns, or she could tell the story of Christianity with the Holy Cross laid across her face. In the background, I have the places of worship for both faiths – open and inviting for all who choose to unite and live in peace, dignity and harmony”.

As Mr. Musayer shares his hopes for peaceful coexistence in Iraq, his thoughts are a reminder that engaging in dialogue, creating awareness and promoting tolerance and acceptance among peoples of different faiths, beliefs and cultures are key stepping stones towards building a hopeful and peaceful society in Iraq and across the globe.

After Baghdad, the Art for Peace travelling exhibition will be on display throughout March and April 2017 in the following Iraqi governorates: Babil, Karbala, Thi-Qar, Missan, Basrah, Diyala, Salah Al-din and Erbil.

Source and photos: UNAMI PIO

On Global Open Day on UNSCR 1325, Calls for Greater Women Role in Future of post-Daesh Iraq

Baghdad/Erbil, 24 October 2017 – The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), jointly with UNWOMEN within the context of the observing the Global Open Day and the 17th Anniversary of UN Security Council resolution 1325, held consultative forums with senior political leadership in Baghdad and Erbil on 23 and 24 October, with the focus on strengthening women’s political participation.

In both Baghdad and Erbil, the concerns of women, their participation in society, the political process and decision-making were raised. Participants were categorical in stating that there have been long-standing barriers which have continued to impede women’s participation and representation in the political process. Particularly, participants noted a regression in women’s representation in executive, legislative as well as judiciary branches of government. Further, participants decried that leaderships of political parties have not given sufficient opportunities to women to fully and equally participate in politics. Recommendations were proposed, including a specific request made to the political leaders to give women an opportunity to be part of the solution. Participants also called for legislation to promote and increase women’s participation in politics and governance as well as to promote them to decision-making positions.

In Baghdad, the meeting on 23 October was organized in collaboration with the Implementation and Follow-up Commission for National Reconciliation in the Office of the Prime Minister. The meeting was attended by the Minister of Health and Environment, H.E. Adila Hammoud, Adviser to the Prime Minister on reconciliation, Mr. Mohammed Salman, the Speaker of Parliament’s representative Dr. Ahmed Rushdy, Advisor to the President of the Republic, Juan Masoum, heads of political blocs and other government representatives, parliamentary Committee heads, MPs as well as academics, in addition to representatives of UNAMI and UNWOMEN.

H.E. Ms. Adila Hammoud, the Minister of Health and Environment, stated that to overcome social barriers and challenges impeding women’s participation required a concerted effort and commitment from political leaders and decision-makers, noting “the significant successes of many Iraqi women on the executive and legislative levels and their ability to play an essential role in peace making and societal reconciliation.”

Mr. Mohammad Salman of the reconciliation committee, in his opening remarks, said the meeting is a “golden opportunity for all to benefit from the accumulated experiences of peoples” that the UN holds as it works to support women issues.

Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Iraq, Mr. Ján Kubiš, emphasized in his remarks at the meetings in Baghdad and Erbil that women in Iraq are agents of positive change and they must be given the opportunity to act in that critical role in shaping the future of their country in the post-Daesh period.

“Equality and empowerment of women must be central to all peace, justice, reconciliation and reform efforts in the post-Daesh period. Women’s participation is crucial for an effective, successful and sustainable peace processes and reform. Only through their direct and meaningful participation their voices will be heard,” Mr. Kubiš said.

The consultative meeting in Erbil was convened on 24 October by UNAMI in collaboration with UN WOMEN and the Kurdistan Regional Government’s High Council for Women Affairs. It was attended by Interior Minister H.E. Mr. Karim Sinjari, Minister of the Department of Foreign Relations H.E. Mr. Falah Al-Mustafa, Secretary-General of the High Council for Women’s Affairs Ms. Pakhshan Zangana, Spokesperson to Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani, Safeen Dizayi, and women leaders, in addition to representatives of UNAMI and UN WOMEN.

In remarks at the Erbil meeting, Ms. Pakshan Zangana, the Secretary-General of the High Council for Women’s Affairs in Kurdistan Region of Iraq, said the recent crisis in Kirkuk have seen displacements of civilians including women, the elderly and children. She urged the UN to strengthen its efforts towards addressing the needs to those displaced.

In Erbil, Mr. Kubiš acknowledged the efforts of the Cross-Sector Task Force on the implementation of the Iraq National Action Plan on 1325. “Regardless of all issues between Baghdad and Erbil, the collaboration of women group representatives from both Baghdad and Erbil has been remarkable. It is a good model of constructive cooperation that should inspire also the process of finding solutions to the current crisis between Baghdad and Erbil. Women must play a key role also in these endeavors.”

The SRSG recalled the particularly brutal treatment of women and girls by Daesh terrorists and pointed out to UN Security Council resolution 2379, passed in September to establish an investigative team to support domestic efforts to hold Daesh accountable.

UN WOMEN Representative in Iraq, Ms. Dina Zorba, in both meetings in Baghdad and Erbil, commended the government, civil society, and national and international partners for continued commitment to UNSCR 1325, stating that Iraq is the first country in the Middle East to launch a national plan to implement 1325. She urged the government to work to ensure gender issues are incorporated in all democratization and nation building agendas, and called on the UN, the government, and the International Community to continue to advocate for and protect the rights of women and girls.

Photos by UNAMI PIO.

Rund 3000 Menschen nahmen an einer Demonstration durch den Berliner Stadtteil Wedding teil, um ihre Solidarität mit der durch den sogenannten Islamischen Staat (IS) angegriffenen syrisch-kurdischen Stadt Kobane (Ain al-Arab) auszudrücken. Die Teilnehmer waren größstenteils Kurden und Angehörige linker Gruppen. Aber auch eine Vertreterin einer alewitischen Jugendorganisation hielt eine Rede.

Der Wedding gilt als Hochburg sowohl von türkischen Nationalisten, als auch von Anhängern des Salafismus, es war daher im Vorfeld mit Auseinandersetzungen gerechnet worden. Die Polizei war mit einem massiven Aufgebot vor Ort. Es kam jedoch nur wenigen, vereinzelten Zwischenfällen. Die Veranstalter riefen die Teilnehmer wiederholt auf, sich nicht provozieren und die Demonstration friedlich zum Ziel kommen zu lassen.

Paris : Place de la République

Kurz nach dem sechsten Jahrestages des Beginns der syrischen Revolution am 15.03.2011 demonstrieren mehrere hundert Menschen in Berlin gegen den syrischen Diktator Baschar al-Assad, sowie dessen Unterstützer Russland, Iran und die libanesische Hisbollah. Die Demonstration zieht vom Hermannplatz in Neukölln zum Oranienplatz in Kreuzberg.

Die Teilnehmer fordern Frieden und Freiheit für Syrien und einen Abzug der russischen und iranischen Streitkräfte, sowie der vom Iran unterstützten Hisbollah.

Seit dem Beginn des Versuchs al-Assads, die Demokratiebewegung blutig niederzuschlagen, sind bis zu 500.000 Menschen getötet worden, Millionen sind innerhalb und außerhalb Syriens auf der Flucht. Noch immer sitzen zehntausende Menschen in den berüchtigten Foltergefängnissen des Regimes. Städte werden durch Belagerungen ausgehungert und im Schatten des Krieges gegen das eigene Volk und mit stillschweigender Duldung des Regimes konnte Daesh seine Schreckensherrschaft über Teile Syriens errichten.

Paris, 2 days after November 2015 attacks. Place de la République. Muslim meets Charlie. false alert at Carillon.

Paris, 2 days after November 2015 attacks. Place de la République. Muslim meets Charlie. false alert at Carillon.

Mehrere hundert Syrer und Unterstützer demonstrieren am 16.03.2019 in Berlin anlässlich des achten Jahrestages des Beginns des Aufstandes gegen das Regime von Baschar al-Assad.

Die Protestierenden treten für ein freies und demokratisches Syrien ein. Sie verurteilen sowohl die Kriegsverbrechen durch das Regime in Damaskus und seiner Verbündeten Iran und Russland, als auch das Wirken radikal-islamischer Milizen wie der Al-Nusrah Front und Daesh.

Kurzzeitig kam es vor der Botschaft Russlands, wo eine Zwischenkundgebung abgehalten wird, zu kurzen Rangeleien, als die Polizei es zuließ, dass eine einstellige Zahl von Anhängers al-Assads und des russischen Präsidenten Putin in Sichtweite der Kundgebung diese provozieren lies. Im weiteren Verlauf wurden mindestens vier Personen vorübergehend festgenommen.

Hintergrund der Demonstration ist der bewaffnete Kampf zwischen dem Regime und diversen bewaffneten aufständischen Gruppierungen. Das Regime wird dabei militärisch von Russland und dem Iran, sowie von diesem abhängiger Milizen wie der libanesischen Hisbollah unterstützt. Ohne diese Unterstützung hätte sich Diktator Baschar al-Assadschon vor Jahren nicht mehr im Amt halten können. Dem syrischen Regime und seinen Verbündeten konnten diverse Kriegsverbrechen nachgewiesen werden. Darunter Angriffe mit chemischen Waffen, gezieltes Aushungern der Zivilbevölkerung, Angriffe auf Krankenhäuser, sowie Massaker an Zivilisten.

Schätzungen zufolge haben rund 800.000 Menschen ihr Leben verloren. Millionen sind auf der Flucht und Zehntausende sitzen in den Foltergefängnissen Assads.

Mehrere hundert Syrer und Unterstützer demonstrieren am 16.03.2019 in Berlin anlässlich des achten Jahrestages des Beginns des Aufstandes gegen das Regime von Baschar al-Assad.

Die Protestierenden treten für ein freies und demokratisches Syrien ein. Sie verurteilen sowohl die Kriegsverbrechen durch das Regime in Damaskus und seiner Verbündeten Iran und Russland, als auch das Wirken radikal-islamischer Milizen wie der Al-Nusrah Front und Daesh.

Kurzzeitig kam es vor der Botschaft Russlands, wo eine Zwischenkundgebung abgehalten wird, zu kurzen Rangeleien, als die Polizei es zuließ, dass eine einstellige Zahl von Anhängers al-Assads und des russischen Präsidenten Putin in Sichtweite der Kundgebung diese provozieren lies. Im weiteren Verlauf wurden mindestens vier Personen vorübergehend festgenommen.

Hintergrund der Demonstration ist der bewaffnete Kampf zwischen dem Regime und diversen bewaffneten aufständischen Gruppierungen. Das Regime wird dabei militärisch von Russland und dem Iran, sowie von diesem abhängiger Milizen wie der libanesischen Hisbollah unterstützt. Ohne diese Unterstützung hätte sich Diktator Baschar al-Assadschon vor Jahren nicht mehr im Amt halten können. Dem syrischen Regime und seinen Verbündeten konnten diverse Kriegsverbrechen nachgewiesen werden. Darunter Angriffe mit chemischen Waffen, gezieltes Aushungern der Zivilbevölkerung, Angriffe auf Krankenhäuser, sowie Massaker an Zivilisten.

Schätzungen zufolge haben rund 800.000 Menschen ihr Leben verloren. Millionen sind auf der Flucht und Zehntausende sitzen in den Foltergefängnissen Assads.

Mapa de los territorios del autoproclamado Estado Islámico en Siria e Irak en diciembre de 2016.

Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict Ms. Pramila Patten Concludes Visit to Iraq and Stresses Need to Do More to Protect and Support Victims of Daesh’s Sexual Violence Crimes

(Baghdad/New York, 05 March 2018)

The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Ms. Pramila Patten, concluded an eight-day visit to Iraq during which she heard first-hand the heart wrenching accounts of survivors of Daesh’s sexual violence. She stressed the need to ensure that survivors of conflict-related sexual violence are fully protected and that perpetrators of these horrendous crimes are brought to justice.

Special Representative Patten met with Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi and with other senior Government officials, at federal, regional and provincial levels in Baghdad, Erbil and Mosul. She also engaged directly with survivors, civil society groups and with Christian, Shia, Sunni, Turkmen Shia and Yazidi religious leaders. A strong message from the survivors relating to the plight of women and girls still under captivity as well as their missing family members was taken up with the Government by Special Representative Patten. She enquired about ongoing efforts to locate those missing and urged the authorities to expedite their rescue.

Many of the women who remain displaced expressed serious safety concerns regarding their return to their homes and shared their fear of reprisals. “I call on all religious and tribal leaders to welcome back survivors of sexual violence and their children, and the Government to find legal avenues to recognize their children as Iraqi citizens,” said Ms. Patten. “It is essential for all to work towards shifting the stigma from the victims to the perpetrators. I also urge the Government to ensure that women and girls who were victims of Daesh are not wrongfully perceived as being their ‘affiliates’.”

During discussion with Iraqi Officials on the question of justice and accountability, while acknowledging the efforts of the Government, the Special Representative stressed the importance of ensuring that alleged perpetrators are held accountable not only for the crime of terrorism but for the full extent of the sexual violence crimes perpetrated on Iraqi women and children including abduction, rape, sexual slavery and forced marriages. She noted in this regard that her Office stands ready to work directly with Iraqi judges, investigators and prosecutors together with the new Investigative Team established under UNSCR 2379. Her Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence also stands ready to provide support in the area of legislative reform in particular to criminalize war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide in Iraq.

In Mosul, where thousands of Iraqi women and girls were subjected to rape, sexual slavery and other grave forms of sexual violence perpetrated by Daesh, Ms. Patten was joined by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict. They both called on the authorities of Ninewa Governorate to address the pressing needs of survivors in ongoing reconstruction efforts, including through the significant scaling-up of medical services, mental health and psychosocial support and economic livelihoods opportunities.

Ms. Patten’s visit from 26 February to 5 March 2018 was at the invitation of the Government, pursuant to the United Nations/Iraq Joint Communiqué to Prevent and Address Conflict-Related Sexual Violence of 2016. Her visit marks the endorsement of the Joint Communiqué’s Implementation Plan featuring specific measures related to justice and accountability, survivor-centered services and engagement with civil society organizations, religious/tribal leaders and the media. “The development of this implementation plan demonstrates the continuous commitment of the Government of Iraq to address the plight of the victims of conflict-related sexual violence,” stressed Special Representative Patten.

“While I congratulate the Government of Iraq for its military defeat of Daesh, I urge the Government to pursue its efforts to rescue those missing, to ensure justice and reparations to all victims of the heinous crimes of sexual violence and to include women in its peacebuilding, reconciliation and reconstruction initiatives,” stated Special Representative Patten.

Photos by UNAMI PIO.

Ministeriale della Coalizione anti-Daesh,

Roma 28 June 2021. ANSA/GIUSEPPE LAMI

161002-N-VK310-043 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Oct. 2, 2016) An AV-8B Harrier, from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), maneuvers on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) Oct. 2, 2016. The 22nd MEU, embarked on Wasp, is conducting precision air strikes in support of the Libyan Government of National Accord-aligned forces against Daesh targets in Sirte, Libya as part of Operation Odyssey Lightning. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Michael Molina/Released)

Rund 150 Menschen, haptsächlich Kurden, beteiligen sich an einer Kundgebung in Berlin vor dem Gebäude der Vereinten Nationen in Berlin.

Sie protestieren gegen die militärischen Aktionen der Türkei und den Einmarsch türkischer Truppen rund um das nordsyrische, kurdische Efrin (Afrin). In Sprechchören und Reden fordern sie ein Ende der Aktionen und die Weltgemeinschaft zum Handeln auf. Auf Schildern wird auch der bekannt gewordene Einsatz deutscher Rüstungsgüter, darunter Leopard 2 Panzer kritisiert. Die Teilnehmer erinnern zudem an den Kampf der Kurden im nördlichen Syrien in der Region Rojava gegen Daesh ("Islamischer Staat").

Am Rande stellte die Polizei zumindest eine Fahne, die offensichtlich unter die jüngsten Verbote des Bundesinnenministeriums kurdische Organisationen betreffend, fiel.

Nachdem in den frühen Morgenstunden der sogenannte Islamische Staat (IS) eine Großoffensive auf jesidische Orte im Sindschar-Gebirge (Irak) startete, versammelten sich rund 300 Kurden und Jesiden spontan am Berliner Brandenburger Tor, um gegen den Terror der radikalmuslimischen Milizen zu protestieren.

Dabei wurde auch an den Kampf von kurdischen Einheiten der YPG/YPJ im umkämpften, syrisch-kurdischen Kobane erinnert. Die Weltgemeinschaft wurde aufgerufen, die Kurden mit Waffen zu beliefern.

Eine Demonstration zog dann vorbei an der Botschaft der USA zum Potsdamer Platz.

Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict Ms. Pramila Patten Concludes Visit to Iraq and Stresses Need to Do More to Protect and Support Victims of Daesh’s Sexual Violence Crimes

(Baghdad/New York, 05 March 2018)

The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Ms. Pramila Patten, concluded an eight-day visit to Iraq during which she heard first-hand the heart wrenching accounts of survivors of Daesh’s sexual violence. She stressed the need to ensure that survivors of conflict-related sexual violence are fully protected and that perpetrators of these horrendous crimes are brought to justice.

Special Representative Patten met with Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi and with other senior Government officials, at federal, regional and provincial levels in Baghdad, Erbil and Mosul. She also engaged directly with survivors, civil society groups and with Christian, Shia, Sunni, Turkmen Shia and Yazidi religious leaders. A strong message from the survivors relating to the plight of women and girls still under captivity as well as their missing family members was taken up with the Government by Special Representative Patten. She enquired about ongoing efforts to locate those missing and urged the authorities to expedite their rescue.

Many of the women who remain displaced expressed serious safety concerns regarding their return to their homes and shared their fear of reprisals. “I call on all religious and tribal leaders to welcome back survivors of sexual violence and their children, and the Government to find legal avenues to recognize their children as Iraqi citizens,” said Ms. Patten. “It is essential for all to work towards shifting the stigma from the victims to the perpetrators. I also urge the Government to ensure that women and girls who were victims of Daesh are not wrongfully perceived as being their ‘affiliates’.”

During discussion with Iraqi Officials on the question of justice and accountability, while acknowledging the efforts of the Government, the Special Representative stressed the importance of ensuring that alleged perpetrators are held accountable not only for the crime of terrorism but for the full extent of the sexual violence crimes perpetrated on Iraqi women and children including abduction, rape, sexual slavery and forced marriages. She noted in this regard that her Office stands ready to work directly with Iraqi judges, investigators and prosecutors together with the new Investigative Team established under UNSCR 2379. Her Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence also stands ready to provide support in the area of legislative reform in particular to criminalize war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide in Iraq.

In Mosul, where thousands of Iraqi women and girls were subjected to rape, sexual slavery and other grave forms of sexual violence perpetrated by Daesh, Ms. Patten was joined by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict. They both called on the authorities of Ninewa Governorate to address the pressing needs of survivors in ongoing reconstruction efforts, including through the significant scaling-up of medical services, mental health and psychosocial support and economic livelihoods opportunities.

Ms. Patten’s visit from 26 February to 5 March 2018 was at the invitation of the Government, pursuant to the United Nations/Iraq Joint Communiqué to Prevent and Address Conflict-Related Sexual Violence of 2016. Her visit marks the endorsement of the Joint Communiqué’s Implementation Plan featuring specific measures related to justice and accountability, survivor-centered services and engagement with civil society organizations, religious/tribal leaders and the media. “The development of this implementation plan demonstrates the continuous commitment of the Government of Iraq to address the plight of the victims of conflict-related sexual violence,” stressed Special Representative Patten.

“While I congratulate the Government of Iraq for its military defeat of Daesh, I urge the Government to pursue its efforts to rescue those missing, to ensure justice and reparations to all victims of the heinous crimes of sexual violence and to include women in its peacebuilding, reconciliation and reconstruction initiatives,” stated Special Representative Patten.

Photos by UNAMI PIO and UNFPA.

Paris, 2 days after November 2015 attacks. Place de la République. Muslim meets Charlie. false alert at Carillon.

Nel mese di agosto del 2014 oltre 400000 componenti della comunità yazida hanno dovuto abbandonare le loro case mentre Daesh conquistava, devastandole, ampie estensioni di territorio iracheno. Molti di loro sono stati fatti prigionieri e giustiziati, migliaia di donne e bambini sono stati ridotti in schiavitù. Chi è riuscito a fuggire si è rifugiato sulle montagne di Sinjar, per poi raggiungere i campi profughi della regione del Kurdistan iracheno.

Il campo profughi di Khanke – il luogo dove sono ospitate le ragazze autrici delle fotografie e da cui provengono gli scatti – ospita quasi tremila famiglie, fuggite dalla provincia irachena di Ninive. Nonostante il trauma e gli orrori a cui ha assistito, la comunità yazida ha dimostrato caparbietà e una grande capacità di reagire, di cui la mostra fotografica è un toccante esempio.

Tutte le immagini sono coperte da Copyright

© Manal Barakat, © Zina Hassan, © Klood Khedada, © Samia Jendo, © Bushra Qasim, © Khawla Shamo

Diyarbakir (Amed), Fête du Newroz 2015. Cette année, la fête de Newroz qui marque le nouvel an kurde, symbole de renaissance et de résistance pour ce peuple, se déroule dans un contexte particulièrement tendu. Depuis décembre 2015, l'était turc assiège et bombarde des quartiers entiers de villes kurdes, où populatins civiles comme militants sont indistinctement massacrés, et soumet l'ensemble de la population kurde à un violente répression. D'un autre côté, la peur d'un attentat suicide de daesh est dans toutes les têtes. Malgré tout, même si ils sont moins nombreux que les années passées, les Kurdes se rejoignent à Amed, capitale du Kurdistan, pour fêter Newroz et célébrer leur résistance.

Rund 2.000 Kurden und Angehörige linker Gruppen demonstrierten in Berlin Wedding in Gedenken an die 32 Opfer des Bombenanschlags im türkisch-kurdischen Suruç. Zudem richtete sich der Protest gegen die türkische AKP-Regierung und dem Präsidenten der Türkei Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

In Reden und Sprechchören wurde die Solidarität mit den syrisch-kurdischen Gruppen YPG und YPJ und deren Kampf um Rojava bekundet. Ebenso mit dem in der Türkei inhaftierten PKK-Führer Abdullah Öcalan. Es wurden zudem die jüngsten Angriffe der türkischen Armee auf Stellungen der PKK verurteilt.

Die Partei Die Linke verleiht in Berlin Kreuzberg zum achten Mal den Clara-Zetkin-Frauenpreis an Initiativen, die sich im vergangenen Jahr für die Rechte von Frauen in der Gesellschaft stark gemacht haben.

Preisträger 2018 ist die Initiative "TAJÊ - Freiheitsbewegung/Frauenräte der ezidischen Frauen", die jesidische Frauen berät und in der Bewältigung ihrer Erlebnisse durch die Verfolgung und Versklavung durch Daesh (IS) hilft. Der Sonderpreis geht dieses Jahr an Dr. Kristina Hänel, die nicht nur auf ein Leben im Kampf für die Rechte von Frauen zurückblicken kann, sondern zudem auch bundesweite Bekanntheit erlangte, nachdem sie nach §219a StGB verurteilt wurde.

Insgesamt wurden acht Initiativen nominiert. Der CareSlam! wurde von Yvonne Falckner begründet und gibt Pflegenden eine Bühne, um über ihre Arbeitsbedingungen zu sprechen. Bekannt wurde das Format durch einen Auftritt der CareSlammerin Sabrina Maar in der ZDF-Sendung "Die Anstalt" Anfang Dezember 2017. Ebenfalls nominiert wurde ein "Containerprojekt für wohnungslose Frauen", welches sich den besonderen Anforderungen von Frauen und Transgendern in der Obdachlosigkeit annimmt und ihnen eine unterkunft bietet. Das "Frauenorchesterprojekt (FOP)" ist ein Frauenchor unter der Leitung von Mary Ellen Kitchens, welcher es sich zur Aufgabe gemacht hat, Musik von Frauen hörbar zu machen. Die "Kontaktstelle "Frauen für Frauen" wurde ebenso nominiert wie "RosaLinde e.V.- Queer Refugee Network" kämpft gegen die sprichwörtlichen "Sächsischen Zustände" an, indem es queeren Geflüchteten in Leipzig Unterstützung und Beratung zuteil werden lässt. Der "ver.di-Bezirksfrauenrat München" legt ein Augenmerk auf die Bedürfnisse und Herausforderungen von Frauen im Berufsleben.

Die einzelnen Projekte wurden von Politikerinnen der Partei Die Linke vorgestellt. Darunter waren Simone Barrientos (MdB), Lucy Redler, Juliane Nagel (MdB). Die Preise wurden von Katja Kipping übergeben. Für die musikalische Begleitung sorgte die Rapperin aus Zimbabwe AWA KHIWE.

Berlin. 2015.

"Suruç'taki katliamı protesto yürüyüşü / Protest gegen das Massaker in Suruç".

Thorsten Strasas. - Wien | Berlin. - Photographers in Solidarity.

The oasis town of Ma'an was once one of the most important stop between Damascus and Medina on the Hejaz Railway.

The Hejaz Railway once stretched along 1,300km of desert between Damascus and Medina. It was financed by the world's Islamic public, and was built by the Ottoman Empire in the 1900s with German help. It's original purpose was to shorten the long and dangerous journey for pilgrims performing Hajj.

In WW1, Lawrence of Arabia would lead Arab Bedouin irregulars and attacked the railway relentlessly, hoping to 'cut the spine of the Ottoman Empire' and to tie up Ottoman troops to garrison the area to allow British advances to the west.

The railway was badly damaged with many sections abandoned after the war. Today a railway workshop continues to operate in Ma'an in order to facilitate the running railway line between Amman, Aqaba and the phosphorus mines south of Ma'an.

Ma'an, Jordan.

Rund 150 Menschen aus kommunistischen Gruppen, darunter die MLKP, nahmen mit einerm Demonstrationszug in Berlin Kreuzberg Abschied von der 19jährigen Ivana Hoffmann, die am 07.03.2015 im Kampf gegen den sogenannten Islamischen Staat (IS) in der syrischen Provinz Rojava gefallen ist.

In Reden und Sprechchören bekundeten die Teilnehmer ihre Solidarität mit dem Kamof der YPG/YPJ in Rojava.

Rund 3000 Menschen nahmen an einer Demonstration durch den Berliner Stadtteil Wedding teil, um ihre Solidarität mit der durch den sogenannten Islamischen Staat (IS) angegriffenen syrisch-kurdischen Stadt Kobane (Ain al-Arab) auszudrücken. Die Teilnehmer waren größstenteils Kurden und Angehörige linker Gruppen. Aber auch eine Vertreterin einer alewitischen Jugendorganisation hielt eine Rede.

Der Wedding gilt als Hochburg sowohl von türkischen Nationalisten, als auch von Anhängern des Salafismus, es war daher im Vorfeld mit Auseinandersetzungen gerechnet worden. Die Polizei war mit einem massiven Aufgebot vor Ort. Es kam jedoch nur wenigen, vereinzelten Zwischenfällen. Die Veranstalter riefen die Teilnehmer wiederholt auf, sich nicht provozieren und die Demonstration friedlich zum Ziel kommen zu lassen.

Charleroi

Edit: a few days after taking these pictures a 33 year old Algerian called Khaled Babouri attacked 2 female police-officers with a machete in front of this tower while shouting "Allahu Akbar". He was shot by a 3rd officer & the attack was (as becomes a habit) claimed by ISIS. He had been residing illegally in Belgium for 8 years.

www.demorgen.be/binnenland/koning-filip-bezoekt-slachtoff...

Rund 150 Menschen, haptsächlich Kurden, beteiligen sich an einer Kundgebung in Berlin vor dem Gebäude der Vereinten Nationen in Berlin.

Sie protestieren gegen die militärischen Aktionen der Türkei und den Einmarsch türkischer Truppen rund um das nordsyrische, kurdische Efrin (Afrin). In Sprechchören und Reden fordern sie ein Ende der Aktionen und die Weltgemeinschaft zum Handeln auf. Auf Schildern wird auch der bekannt gewordene Einsatz deutscher Rüstungsgüter, darunter Leopard 2 Panzer kritisiert. Die Teilnehmer erinnern zudem an den Kampf der Kurden im nördlichen Syrien in der Region Rojava gegen Daesh ("Islamischer Staat").

Am Rande stellte die Polizei zumindest eine Fahne, die offensichtlich unter die jüngsten Verbote des Bundesinnenministeriums kurdische Organisationen betreffend, fiel.

Paris, 2 days after November 2015 attacks. Place de la République. Muslim meets Charlie. false alert at Carillon.

Daesh Accountability March 2017

Photo: UK Mission to the UN/Lisa Englehart

Arteixo y Tufions-Vimianzo (A Coruña) / Almería, 28 de noviembre de 2016

www.interior.gob.es/es/web/interior/noticias/detalle/-/jo...

Airmen from the Hawaii Air National Guard's 203rd Air Refueling Squadron offload cargo from a KC-135 Stratotanker, Jun. 20, 2016, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. More than 50 members of the Hawaii Air National Guard and three KC-135 aircraft returned home following a four month deployment in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. The flight crews and aircraft from the 203rd ARS along with maintenance and other support personnel from the 154th Wing were part of the 18-Nation air Coalition in the fight against Daesh or ISIS. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Andrew Jackson/released)

Fierce guardian lion from the ancient Assyrian royal palace of Nimrud (near Mosul in modern Iraq) one of a pair that formerly flanked one of the many grand entrances, now in the British Museum.

The companion figure (which was less well preserved) remained in Iraq and was moved to the Mosul Museum where it was most likely smashed to pieces by rampaging jihadi Islamo-fascists who wrecked the museum's contents in 2015. The nearby site of Nimrud itself was attacked by Daesh barbarians shortly afterwards destroying 3000 years of history and leaving the site and its priceless sculptures over 80% destroyed.

Nimrud was liberated earlier this week after two years of mistreatment and destruction and the scale of the disaster is now becoming clear. We must therefore be thankful that most of the major sculptures were long ago moved from the site to other museums in Baghdad, London (which holds the largest collection of sculptures and reliefs) and elsewhere and have thus survived this horrific onslaught against ancient Assyria. Significant fragments appear to have survive on the site and have been photographed since its liberation, and hopefully more will be recovered and identified in the coming weeks.

What now for Nimrud? The site is virtually destroyed, reconstructing it to its previous condition will be extremely difficult using just the remaining fragments. Perhaps a better option would be to bring together casts or 3D scanned and printed exact copies of all the pieces that have been dispersed to foreign museums, reuniting all the great sculptures of Nimrud with what little survives on site and incorporate them in a reconstruction of at least part the palace complex. This way not only could the Daesh barbarity be undone to some extent but Nimrud would rise again more magnificent than before.

I made a gallery of the site as it remained until the recent Daesh occupation of northern Iraq made all art and culture a target for its barbarity.

www.flickr.com/photos/amthomson/galleries/72157650818939720/

Position des HPG, les combattants du PKK, au sud de Kirkuk près de la bille de Hawijah. La semaine précédente, ils ont du intervenir à Kirkuk même pour aider les peshmergas à contrer une attaque surprise de daesh dans la ville. Sur ce front, quelques accrochages réguliers se produisent. Mais le plus souvent, un grand silence règne dans les champs abandonnés et les ruines des villages bombardés par la coalition.

Mehrere hundert Syrer protestieren in Berlin anlässlich des fünften Jahrestages der syrischen Revolution in Berlin gegen das Regime von Baschar al-Assad und seinen engsten Verbündeten, den russischen Präsidenten Wladimir Putin.

Nach einer Kundgebung am Brandenburger Tor ziehen die Demonstranten in die Nähe der russischen Botschaft und wieder zurück. In Reden bekennen sich die Teilnehmer zu Demokratie und Freiheit und fordern ein Ende des syrischen Regimes als Voraussetzung für eine positive Zukunft Syriens.

Der Aufstand der Syrer gegen Diktator Baschar al-Assad begann vor fünf Jahren am 15. März 2011, als Jugendliche "Das Volk will den Sturz des Regimes" an eine Wand in Daraa sprühten, verhaftet und gefoltert wurden. Die anschließenden, friedlichen Demonstrationen im Zuge des "Arabischen Frühlings", wurden vom Regime blutig beantwortet.

In den letzten fünf Jahren haben nach Schätzungen rund 280.000 Menschen ihr Leben verloren, Millionen sind auf der Flucht, viele Städte zerstört, Zehntausende nach wie vor in den Foltergefängnissen des Regimes und Teile des Landes in der Hand der Terrororganisation Daesh.

Rund 2.000 Kurden und Angehörige linker Gruppen demonstrierten in Berlin Wedding in Gedenken an die 32 Opfer des Bombenanschlags im türkisch-kurdischen Suruç. Zudem richtete sich der Protest gegen die türkische AKP-Regierung und dem Präsidenten der Türkei Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

In Reden und Sprechchören wurde die Solidarität mit den syrisch-kurdischen Gruppen YPG und YPJ und deren Kampf um Rojava bekundet. Ebenso mit dem in der Türkei inhaftierten PKK-Führer Abdullah Öcalan. Es wurden zudem die jüngsten Angriffe der türkischen Armee auf Stellungen der PKK verurteilt.

Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict Ms. Pramila Patten Concludes Visit to Iraq and Stresses Need to Do More to Protect and Support Victims of Daesh’s Sexual Violence Crimes

(Baghdad/New York, 05 March 2018)

The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Ms. Pramila Patten, concluded an eight-day visit to Iraq during which she heard first-hand the heart wrenching accounts of survivors of Daesh’s sexual violence. She stressed the need to ensure that survivors of conflict-related sexual violence are fully protected and that perpetrators of these horrendous crimes are brought to justice.

Special Representative Patten met with Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi and with other senior Government officials, at federal, regional and provincial levels in Baghdad, Erbil and Mosul. She also engaged directly with survivors, civil society groups and with Christian, Shia, Sunni, Turkmen Shia and Yazidi religious leaders. A strong message from the survivors relating to the plight of women and girls still under captivity as well as their missing family members was taken up with the Government by Special Representative Patten. She enquired about ongoing efforts to locate those missing and urged the authorities to expedite their rescue.

Many of the women who remain displaced expressed serious safety concerns regarding their return to their homes and shared their fear of reprisals. “I call on all religious and tribal leaders to welcome back survivors of sexual violence and their children, and the Government to find legal avenues to recognize their children as Iraqi citizens,” said Ms. Patten. “It is essential for all to work towards shifting the stigma from the victims to the perpetrators. I also urge the Government to ensure that women and girls who were victims of Daesh are not wrongfully perceived as being their ‘affiliates’.”

During discussion with Iraqi Officials on the question of justice and accountability, while acknowledging the efforts of the Government, the Special Representative stressed the importance of ensuring that alleged perpetrators are held accountable not only for the crime of terrorism but for the full extent of the sexual violence crimes perpetrated on Iraqi women and children including abduction, rape, sexual slavery and forced marriages. She noted in this regard that her Office stands ready to work directly with Iraqi judges, investigators and prosecutors together with the new Investigative Team established under UNSCR 2379. Her Team of Experts on the Rule of Law and Sexual Violence also stands ready to provide support in the area of legislative reform in particular to criminalize war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide in Iraq.

In Mosul, where thousands of Iraqi women and girls were subjected to rape, sexual slavery and other grave forms of sexual violence perpetrated by Daesh, Ms. Patten was joined by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict. They both called on the authorities of Ninewa Governorate to address the pressing needs of survivors in ongoing reconstruction efforts, including through the significant scaling-up of medical services, mental health and psychosocial support and economic livelihoods opportunities.

Ms. Patten’s visit from 26 February to 5 March 2018 was at the invitation of the Government, pursuant to the United Nations/Iraq Joint Communiqué to Prevent and Address Conflict-Related Sexual Violence of 2016. Her visit marks the endorsement of the Joint Communiqué’s Implementation Plan featuring specific measures related to justice and accountability, survivor-centered services and engagement with civil society organizations, religious/tribal leaders and the media. “The development of this implementation plan demonstrates the continuous commitment of the Government of Iraq to address the plight of the victims of conflict-related sexual violence,” stressed Special Representative Patten.

“While I congratulate the Government of Iraq for its military defeat of Daesh, I urge the Government to pursue its efforts to rescue those missing, to ensure justice and reparations to all victims of the heinous crimes of sexual violence and to include women in its peacebuilding, reconciliation and reconstruction initiatives,” stated Special Representative Patten.

Photos by UNAMI PIO.

Hunderttausende gedenken der Opfer von Orlando

Vor der Amerikanischen Botschaft auf dem Pariser Platz ist eine Mahnwache aus Blumen, Kerzen und selbst gemalten Bildern entstanden, die auch noch viele Tage nach dem Anschlag stark refrenquiert ist.

Weltweit gedachten Schwule, Lesben, Bi- und Transexuelle (LGBT) am Samstag bei Gay-Pride-Paraden der Opfer des Terroranschlags von Orlando. In dutzenden Ländern erstrahlten öffentliche Gebäude in Regenbogenfarben, so auch am Brandenburger Tor.

Omar M. hatte sich das Ziel seines Massenmords nicht zufällig ausgesucht. Er hatte sich mit einem Sturmgewehr und einer Pistole ausgerüstet und ist mit seinem Auto einen weiten Weg gefahren. Er ging schließlich ins Pulse, einem bekannten queeren Club in Orlando, in dem gerade eine Latino-Party stattfand. Dort erschoss er 49 Menschen, von denen er genau wusste, dass die meisten schwul, lesbisch, bisexuell oder transgender waren.

Zwischendurch wählte er den Notruf, um sich zum „Islamischen Staat“ zu bekennen. Es war ein Akt des Terrors – eindeutig getrieben vom Hass auf Homosexuelle.

Quellen:

www.spiegel.de/kultur/gesellschaft/orlando-nichts-ist-gut...

www.handelsblatt.com/politik/international/solidaritaet-f...

www.spiegel.de/politik/deutschland/gay-pride-paraden-bran...

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Stand: Juni 2016

Mehrere hundert Syrer und Unterstützer demonstrieren am 16.03.2019 in Berlin anlässlich des achten Jahrestages des Beginns des Aufstandes gegen das Regime von Baschar al-Assad.

Die Protestierenden treten für ein freies und demokratisches Syrien ein. Sie verurteilen sowohl die Kriegsverbrechen durch das Regime in Damaskus und seiner Verbündeten Iran und Russland, als auch das Wirken radikal-islamischer Milizen wie der Al-Nusrah Front und Daesh.

Kurzzeitig kam es vor der Botschaft Russlands, wo eine Zwischenkundgebung abgehalten wird, zu kurzen Rangeleien, als die Polizei es zuließ, dass eine einstellige Zahl von Anhängers al-Assads und des russischen Präsidenten Putin in Sichtweite der Kundgebung diese provozieren lies. Im weiteren Verlauf wurden mindestens vier Personen vorübergehend festgenommen.

Hintergrund der Demonstration ist der bewaffnete Kampf zwischen dem Regime und diversen bewaffneten aufständischen Gruppierungen. Das Regime wird dabei militärisch von Russland und dem Iran, sowie von diesem abhängiger Milizen wie der libanesischen Hisbollah unterstützt. Ohne diese Unterstützung hätte sich Diktator Baschar al-Assadschon vor Jahren nicht mehr im Amt halten können. Dem syrischen Regime und seinen Verbündeten konnten diverse Kriegsverbrechen nachgewiesen werden. Darunter Angriffe mit chemischen Waffen, gezieltes Aushungern der Zivilbevölkerung, Angriffe auf Krankenhäuser, sowie Massaker an Zivilisten.

Schätzungen zufolge haben rund 800.000 Menschen ihr Leben verloren. Millionen sind auf der Flucht und Zehntausende sitzen in den Foltergefängnissen Assads.

Rund 2.000 Kurden und Angehörige linker Gruppen demonstrierten in Berlin Wedding in Gedenken an die 32 Opfer des Bombenanschlags im türkisch-kurdischen Suruç. Zudem richtete sich der Protest gegen die türkische AKP-Regierung und dem Präsidenten der Türkei Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

In Reden und Sprechchören wurde die Solidarität mit den syrisch-kurdischen Gruppen YPG und YPJ und deren Kampf um Rojava bekundet. Ebenso mit dem in der Türkei inhaftierten PKK-Führer Abdullah Öcalan. Es wurden zudem die jüngsten Angriffe der türkischen Armee auf Stellungen der PKK verurteilt.

On Global Open Day on UNSCR 1325, Calls for Greater Women Role in Future of post-Daesh Iraq

Baghdad/Erbil, 24 October 2017 – The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), jointly with UNWOMEN within the context of the observing the Global Open Day and the 17th Anniversary of UN Security Council resolution 1325, held consultative forums with senior political leadership in Baghdad and Erbil on 23 and 24 October, with the focus on strengthening women’s political participation.

In both Baghdad and Erbil, the concerns of women, their participation in society, the political process and decision-making were raised. Participants were categorical in stating that there have been long-standing barriers which have continued to impede women’s participation and representation in the political process. Particularly, participants noted a regression in women’s representation in executive, legislative as well as judiciary branches of government. Further, participants decried that leaderships of political parties have not given sufficient opportunities to women to fully and equally participate in politics. Recommendations were proposed, including a specific request made to the political leaders to give women an opportunity to be part of the solution. Participants also called for legislation to promote and increase women’s participation in politics and governance as well as to promote them to decision-making positions.

In Baghdad, the meeting on 23 October was organized in collaboration with the Implementation and Follow-up Commission for National Reconciliation in the Office of the Prime Minister. The meeting was attended by the Minister of Health and Environment, H.E. Adila Hammoud, Adviser to the Prime Minister on reconciliation, Mr. Mohammed Salman, the Speaker of Parliament’s representative Dr. Ahmed Rushdy, Advisor to the President of the Republic, Juan Masoum, heads of political blocs and other government representatives, parliamentary Committee heads, MPs as well as academics, in addition to representatives of UNAMI and UNWOMEN.

H.E. Ms. Adila Hammoud, the Minister of Health and Environment, stated that to overcome social barriers and challenges impeding women’s participation required a concerted effort and commitment from political leaders and decision-makers, noting “the significant successes of many Iraqi women on the executive and legislative levels and their ability to play an essential role in peace making and societal reconciliation.”

Mr. Mohammad Salman of the reconciliation committee, in his opening remarks, said the meeting is a “golden opportunity for all to benefit from the accumulated experiences of peoples” that the UN holds as it works to support women issues.

Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Iraq, Mr. Ján Kubiš, emphasized in his remarks at the meetings in Baghdad and Erbil that women in Iraq are agents of positive change and they must be given the opportunity to act in that critical role in shaping the future of their country in the post-Daesh period.

“Equality and empowerment of women must be central to all peace, justice, reconciliation and reform efforts in the post-Daesh period. Women’s participation is crucial for an effective, successful and sustainable peace processes and reform. Only through their direct and meaningful participation their voices will be heard,” Mr. Kubiš said.

The consultative meeting in Erbil was convened on 24 October by UNAMI in collaboration with UN WOMEN and the Kurdistan Regional Government’s High Council for Women Affairs. It was attended by Interior Minister H.E. Mr. Karim Sinjari, Minister of the Department of Foreign Relations H.E. Mr. Falah Al-Mustafa, Secretary-General of the High Council for Women’s Affairs Ms. Pakhshan Zangana, Spokesperson to Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani, Safeen Dizayi, and women leaders, in addition to representatives of UNAMI and UN WOMEN.

In remarks at the Erbil meeting, Ms. Pakshan Zangana, the Secretary-General of the High Council for Women’s Affairs in Kurdistan Region of Iraq, said the recent crisis in Kirkuk have seen displacements of civilians including women, the elderly and children. She urged the UN to strengthen its efforts towards addressing the needs to those displaced.

In Erbil, Mr. Kubiš acknowledged the efforts of the Cross-Sector Task Force on the implementation of the Iraq National Action Plan on 1325. “Regardless of all issues between Baghdad and Erbil, the collaboration of women group representatives from both Baghdad and Erbil has been remarkable. It is a good model of constructive cooperation that should inspire also the process of finding solutions to the current crisis between Baghdad and Erbil. Women must play a key role also in these endeavors.”

The SRSG recalled the particularly brutal treatment of women and girls by Daesh terrorists and pointed out to UN Security Council resolution 2379, passed in September to establish an investigative team to support domestic efforts to hold Daesh accountable.

UN WOMEN Representative in Iraq, Ms. Dina Zorba, in both meetings in Baghdad and Erbil, commended the government, civil society, and national and international partners for continued commitment to UNSCR 1325, stating that Iraq is the first country in the Middle East to launch a national plan to implement 1325. She urged the government to work to ensure gender issues are incorporated in all democratization and nation building agendas, and called on the UN, the government, and the International Community to continue to advocate for and protect the rights of women and girls.

Photos by UNAMI PIO.