VP/HR — Situation of the Yazidis in northern Iraq

12.9.2014

Question for written answer P-006870-14
to the Commission (Vice-President/High Representative)
Rule 130
Javier Couso Permuy (GUE/NGL)

The Yazidi community is a religious minority in northern Iraq. For centuries now the Yazidis have been living between political marginalisation and the threat of extermination. The invasion of Iraq in 2003 brought new threats for the Yazidis, who are particularly vulnerable in times of sectarian and religious violence. The Yazidis’ circumstances have become increasingly uncertain as the situation in Iraq has worsened; indeed, at present it could be argued that genocide is being perpetrated against them. The creation of the region of Kurdistan in Iraq, governments in Baghdad being established in line with religious quotas, and the arrival of ISIS fighters mean that the Yazidis’ very survival is at risk.

Does the High Representative have information on this matter?

Given the High Representative’s commitment to human rights, has she considered issuing a statement condemning the plight of the Yazidi people?

Will the High Representative continue to support the Foreign Affairs Council’s decision to back the sending of arms to the Kurdistan region to fight ISIS, despite the threat that the Kurdish government poses to the Yazidis?