Executive Summary

On August 3, 2014, the so-called Islamic State attacked Sinjar, launching a campaign of genocide against Yazidis and other minorities in northern Iraq. In the aftermath of the attack, the Yazidi community has suffered devastating consequences. It is estimated that 6,417 Yazidis were abducted, women and girls were sold into sexual slavery, and young Yazidi boys were captured and forced into re-education camps and ideological schools. Searching for and identifying Yazidis who have gone missing since 2014 is one of the biggest challenges facing the Yazidi community. It is estimated that 2,763 Yazidis remain missing. 

This report examines local, national, and transnational initiatives addressing the issue of missing Yazidis and discusses the shortcomings of these efforts. It identifies several problems associated with projects and efforts aimed at addressing the issue of missing Yazidis. These include the lack of a clear understanding about the scope and impact of the issue, inadequate responses to the issue of missing Yazidis, and insufficient support for survivors and their families. 

The case of missing Yazidi has created an existential crisis for the community and survivors. This report concludes with a few recommendations to facilitate the development of an advocacy strategy on the issue of missing Yazidis. 

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For the Arabic version, click here.