Today marks exactly ten years of Nineveh Plains mass exodus of Chaldean-Syriac-Assyrian people following ISIS terrorist group invasion causing genocide, massacres, demographical, cultural, social and religious damage to the ethnic and religious minorities and undefended groups in Iraq. On the other hand, we also remember martyrs of Simele massacre perpetrated against our people by newly founded Iraqi state forces and their allies. The Simele massacre along with the genocide of 1915 are starting point of internationally well-known lawyer Raphael Lemkin coined the word of “genocide” as reference until modern era.
During the 10 years following ISIS genocide and invasion in Nineveh Plains and adjacent territories the dramatic situation of vulnerable groups continues on a daily basis with different challenges from demographical change methods, political and religious pressure and risks of total alienation and disappearance from the land. While the international community prioritized other regions, Iraqi central government is unable and unwilling to address and ameliorate situation for long term.
Despite all challenges and obstacles, Chaldean-Syriac-Assyrian people have strong courage and willingness to restart and rebuild their life in their homeland and being essential part of the social fabric. In order to create in stable, democratic and human rights-based society, past atrocities and crime against humanity must be officially recognized, addressed and create new atmosphere for the population. On this basis, recognition of Simele massacre is cornerstone importance for our people and also addressing genocide of ISIS.
We remember martyrs of Simele massacre and Nineveh Plains, and we call on authorities to take necessary steps for our people.
