Free Yezidi Foundation Country Director Hewan O. participated in The Windsor Dialogue 2026 in the United Kingdom, where she addressed the continuing challenges facing the Ezidi people and the role of the diaspora in preserving Ezidi identity.
The annual dialogue on religious freedom was held under the theme Keeping the Faith: Finding Lessons on Diaspora Sustainability. This year’s discussions focused on how displaced and minority populations can protect their religious and cultural identity across generations while responding to persecution, insecurity and long-term displacement.
The Windsor Dialogue initially began with a focus on the Ezidi people following the 2014 genocide. The 2026 event brought together representatives of religious and minority populations, academics, members of the Iraqi Embassy and representatives of other institutions to discuss shared concerns relating to displacement, religious freedom and the survival of minority identities in diaspora.
During her contribution, Hewan O. spoke about the continued displacement and insecurity affecting Ezidis, as well as the need for stronger recognition and concrete action from states and institutions. She also stressed the importance of equal rights, safety and preserving Ezidi identity for future generations.
Her remarks placed particular emphasis on the responsibility of the diaspora in maintaining religious knowledge, cultural traditions and a clear sense of belonging among younger Ezidis growing up outside their ancestral homeland. For many Ezidi families, displacement has continued for nearly 12 years, while insecurity and limited reconstruction in Shingal have prevented large numbers of people from returning.
The Free Yezidi Foundation shared that it remains committed to strengthening Ezidi participation in international discussions and advocating for justice, equality, safety and dignity for Ezidis.
