Baghdad urged to deliver justice, restore rights, and provide full compensation to Faili Kurds after decades of displacement, statelessness, and recognized genocide
On April 4, 1980, thousands of Faili Kurds were subjected to mass killings as part of a broader campaign by the Ba’ath Party targeting Kurdish communities. Forty-six years later, calls for justice and compensation continue.
According to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent, around 400,000 Faili Kurds were affected through executions, deportations, and forced displacement. Many were stripped of their citizenship under Decree No. 666, a policy later revoked by Iraq’s 2006 Nationality Law after the fall of the regime.
Masoud Barzani described April 4 as a day of remembrance, honoring victims who suffered persecution and death solely for their identity. He emphasized that thousands were killed, displaced, or denied basic rights under systematic policies carried out by the former regime.
Nechirvan Barzani reiterated that the deportation and disappearance of Faili Kurds constituted genocide, calling on Baghdad to meet its legal obligations. He stressed that the Iraqi High Tribunal has formally recognized these acts as genocide, requiring compensation and restoration of rights.
Masrour Barzani also urged the federal government to compensate victims, including families affected by executions, disappearances, and property confiscation. He noted that addressing these injustices remains essential for reconciliation and justice in Iraq.
Kurdish leaders continue to underline that recognition, restitution, and accountability are necessary steps toward healing and ensuring such atrocities are never repeated.