Page 1 — Introduction and Context 
Iraq’s long-standing instability continues to have devastating effects on its ethnic and religious minorities. Communities such as Yazidis, Christians, Turkmen, and Shabaks face persecution, discrimination, and displacement. Armed groups, extremist factions, and even elements within state structures have targeted these minorities, leaving them vulnerable and marginalised. 

The erosion of Iraq’s diversity undermines its rich cultural heritage and fuels mass migration, as persecuted minorities seek safety abroad. 

Page 2 — Historical and Political Background 
Iraq has historically been home to a mosaic of communities. However, decades of authoritarian rule, wars, sanctions, and sectarian violence have eroded coexistence. 

The fall of Saddam Hussein in 2003 triggered instability that empowered sectarian militias and extremist groups. The rise of ISIS in 2014 marked a devastating chapter, with Yazidis subjected to genocide, Christians forced from their homes, and other minorities caught in cycles of violence. 

Despite ISIS’s territorial defeat, the legacies of persecution persist, as armed groups, weak governance, and discrimination continue to endanger minorities. 

Page 3 — Forms of Persecution 
Minorities in Iraq endure persecution in multiple ways: 

- Violence and massacres: targeted killings, kidnappings, and executions. 
- Displacement: millions forced to flee ancestral lands. 
- Religious intolerance: forced conversions and destruction of sacred sites. 
- Discrimination: exclusion from jobs, political institutions, and basic services. 
- Insecurity: armed groups prevent return of displaced populations. 

These abuses have fragmented minority communities and destroyed their sense of security. 

Page 4 — Consequences for Citizens and Society 
For individuals, persecution means exile, loss of livelihoods, and trauma. Displaced minorities often live in camps or abroad, unable to return home due to insecurity. Families remain separated, and cultural traditions risk extinction. 

For Iraqi society, the decline of minority populations undermines pluralism and weakens national unity. The loss of communities that have enriched Iraq’s history for centuries diminishes the country’s cultural and social fabric. Internationally, Iraq is criticised for failing to protect vulnerable groups despite constitutional guarantees. 

Page 5 — Solutions and Conclusion 
Protecting minorities is essential for Iraq’s stability and reconciliation. 

Key steps include: 
- Accountability: prosecute perpetrators of genocide and crimes against minorities. 
- Security guarantees: protect returnees with safe zones and international monitoring. 
- Political inclusion: ensure minority representation in governance. 
- Reconstruction aid: rebuild destroyed towns and religious sites. 
- International support: strengthen humanitarian programmes for displaced minorities. 

Until these measures are implemented, ethnic and religious minorities in Iraq will continue to suffer persecution, and the country risks losing its diverse identity.