Iraq’s religious communities face ongoing challenges 11 years after the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) waged genocide against religious and ethnic minorities. Iraq has improved some FoRB conditions while falling short in others, such as blasphemy laws and changes to personal status legislation. The widespread failure to curb the growing power of Iran-affiliated militias and other malign actors remains a persistent threat to the security and existence of various religious communities.
Source: Iraqi Yazidis light candles and paraffin torches during a ceremony to celebrate the Yazidi New Year at Lalish temple in Shekhan District in Duhok, REUTERS / Jalal