Swiss Parliament Recognizes the Ezidi Genocide

On December 17, 2024, the Swiss National Council officially recognized the mass atrocities committed against the Ezidi people by the Islamic State (IS) in 2014 as genocide. In a landmark decision, the Swiss legislature condemned the systematic campaign of violence, including mass killings, sexual violence, forced displacement, and the destruction of cultural heritage, perpetrated by the terrorist group in northern Iraq.

With a vote of 105 in favor, 61 against, and 27 abstentions, the National Council adopted a resolution that not only acknowledged the genocide but also called on the Swiss government to take active steps on the international stage to advocate for justice and restitution for the Ezidi victims. The decision came after a contentious debate within the parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee (APK-N), where the proposal was narrowly approved by a margin of 12 to 10.

The resolution specifically addressed the horrific events of August 3, 2014, when the IS launched a large-scale assault on Ezidi-populated areas. During this attack, the terrorist group killed over 5,000 Ezidi men and women, abducted approximately 7,000 people, and subjected countless others to sexual slavery and forced conversions. The fate of approximately 2,600 women and children remains unknown. The United Nations had already classified these atrocities as genocide in 2016, but the Swiss Parliament’s formal recognition represents a significant political and moral statement.

A Strong Political Signal

Supporters of the resolution, including Sibel Arslan (Green/BS), argued that the recognition of the genocide sends a strong political signal against Islamic terrorism and a clear message about the international community’s commitment to human rights and the protection of minorities. Arslan, a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, emphasized the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their crimes, asserting, “The UN has classified this as genocide. Various states have followed this call. We can now contribute to ensuring these atrocities do not go unpunished.”

The decision marks a clear break from the position of the parliamentary minority, which opposed the resolution. Pierre-André Page (SVP/FR), speaking on behalf of the opposing group, argued that recognizing crimes of this nature was not within the scope of the Swiss Parliament’s responsibilities. He warned that such declarations could set a “problematic precedent” for the future. Despite these concerns, the majority of parliamentarians rejected this view, ultimately passing the resolution.

A Historic Moment for the Ezidis

The recognition of the Ezidi genocide by the Swiss National Council represents a historic moment for the Ezidi people, who have long struggled for international recognition of their suffering. Following the parliamentary vote, the Swiss government was tasked with spreading the resolution through diplomatic channels and advocating for international measures to ensure justice and reparations for the victims. This includes pushing for the international community to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the atrocities committed by IS.

The resolution also called for continued efforts to preserve the cultural heritage of the Ezidis, whose religious sites and cultural landmarks were targeted for destruction by IS forces. Many Ezidis still live in displacement camps, while others have been forced to seek refuge in Europe and beyond.

International Implications

Switzerland’s move is significant in the broader context of international diplomacy and justice. By formally recognizing the genocide, Switzerland joins a growing list of countries that have taken steps to acknowledge the severity of the crimes committed against the Ezidi people. This recognition could further pressure other governments and international bodies to take more definitive action in securing justice for the victims of IS’s campaign of terror.

In closing, the Swiss National Council’s decision is a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for global accountability and support for victims of genocide. While the pain and loss suffered by the Ezidis cannot be undone, this formal recognition is an important step toward justice and the preservation of their history and culture.

Additionally, Ezidi Times would like to forward our sincere gratitude to the group of Ezidi advocates and all involved people who have worked tirelessly to secure recognition of the genocide. Their courage and determination to bring this atrocity to light are truly inspiring. By pushing for formal recognition, they are not only seeking justice for the victims but also ensuring that the suffering of the Ezidis is never forgotten.

We express a special appreciation to

Farhad Ismail

Fabian Molina

Delshad Ido

Nicolas Walder

Sibel Arslan

Sepan Ajo

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to justice and for your tireless efforts in advocating for the recognition of the Ezidi genocide.