Protests have been held in front of the embassies of Iraq in various European countries calling for the recognition of the self-determination of the majority Yazidi population of Shengal in south Kurdistan.
Rallies have been held in front of the Iraqi embassies of several European countries calling for the recognition of the right of self-determination of the majority Yazidi population of Shengal. Activists also called for the annulment of an agreement signed by the governments of Baghdad and Hewlêr (Erbil) which provides for the dissolution of the security forces established in Shengal after the genocide of 3 August 2014 carried out by the Islamic State. The Iraqi government in Baghdad set 1 April as a deadline for the withdrawal of local defense units.
Frankfurt
In Frankfurt, the FCDK-KAWA federation called for a protest in front of the Iraqi embassy. A speech highlighted the tensions that have been rising since the agreement on Shengal signed in October between Baghdad and the South Kurdish administration in Hewlêr under pressure from the USA and Turkey.
Hamburg
At a rally in Hamburg, author, ethnologist and women activist Anja Flach informed the public about the background to the resistance in Shengal against the agreement and the interests of the signatory states.
Brussels
Representatives of leading Yazidi exile organizations were also present at a protest in the Belgian capital, Brussels. Davut Kesen from Nav-Bel warned that Baghdad's “attack-oriented policy and corresponding threatening moves” against Shengal showed parallels to “ISIS policy” and that this was very dangerous.
The Hague
A demonstration in The Hague demanded the annulment of the agreement between Baghdad and Hewlêr.
Stockholm
The Democratic Kurdish Society Center (DKTM) organized a rally in Stockholm. A letter was handed to the Iraqi embassy demanding the recognition of the status of Shengal.
Oslo
In Oslo, the DKTM and the initiative “Solidaritet med Kurdistan” organised the protest. Women's activist Lida Weert appealed to the public to show solidarity with the Yazidi people in their struggle for self-determination.
Copenhagen
At the rally in Copenhagen, a dossier with the Yazidi demands was given to the embassy. The action there is to continue on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week.
