Sema
MP Khalil’s concerns highlight the delicate balance the Iraqi government must maintain between national reconciliation efforts and ensuring justice for victims of heinous crimes.
An Iraqi lawmaker has strongly opposed granting amnesty to those involved in the mass killing of Yazidis, emphasizing that such individuals should never be pardoned.
Iraqi MP Mahma Khalil reported that after discussions with the Federal Court, it was confirmed that the general amnesty law would not apply to those who participated in Yazidi massacres or were complicit in spilling Yazidi blood.
On Feb. 21, 2025, the Iraqi Parliament, following its legislative agenda, reviewed the second phase of General Amnesty Law No. 27 of 2016. Despite legislative efforts, the Yazidi community continues to suffer from the aftermath of the atrocities committed by ISIS and its affiliates.
More than 2,500 Yazidis remain missing, and several mass graves have yet to be exhumed. Meanwhile, over 200,000 Yazidis still endure harsh conditions in displacement camps, with little hope of returning to their homes.
The General Amnesty Law, initially passed in 2016 and amended in 2017, has been a focal point of controversy. The recent amendments have raised alarms among various communities, particularly the Yazidis, as the law could potentially facilitate the release of individuals convicted of serious crimes, including those involved in acts of terrorism and corruption, provided certain conditions are met.
The Yazidi community has endured immense suffering since the Islamic State (ISIS) launched a brutal campaign against them in 2014. Thousands were killed, and many women and children were abducted and subjected to unimaginable horrors.
As of December 2022, more than 2,000 Yazidis remained unaccounted for, with ongoing efforts to rescue those still in captivity. The scars of the Yazidi genocide were reopened recently when the remains of 32 Yazidi victims were returned to their families in Sinjar. This somber event underscored the community’s ongoing grievances over the lack of justice and support.
MP Khalil’s concerns highlight the delicate balance the Iraqi government must maintain between national reconciliation efforts and ensuring justice for victims of heinous crimes.
As the implementation of the General Amnesty Law progresses, the Yazidi community and human rights advocates will be closely monitoring its impact, particularly regarding accountability for those involved in the atrocities.
The international community continues to urge the Iraqi government to ensure that any legislative measures, including amnesty laws, do not compromise justice for victims of genocide and other serious crimes.
The resilience of the Yazidi community serves as a poignant reminder of the need for comprehensive and inclusive approaches to justice and reconciliation in Iraq.