Norway condemns persecution in northern Iraq and calls for international investigation

‘Norway is increasing its humanitarian assistance to Iraq by NOK 50 million,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende.

Hundreds of thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes as a result of the campaign of terror in northern Iraq by the militant group Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). In a press statement on Iraq, the UN Security Council has condemned the systematic persecution of individuals from minority populations and those who refuse the extremist ideology of ISIL and associated armed groups.

‘We are facing an extremely grave situation, and the world cannot simply stand by and watch as it unfolds. Norway shares the sense of alarm expressed by the UN Security Council concerning the situation in Iraq. Norway condemns the actions of ISIL and associated armed groups in the strongest possible terms. The Security Council has made clear that widespread or systematic attacks directed against minorities may constitute a crime against humanity. These attacks must be stopped immediately and an international investigation must be initiated. Those responsible for these crimes must be held accountable, as the Security Council has also made plain,’ said Mr Brende. 

The Security Council has called on the international community to support the Government and people of Iraq and help alleviate the suffering of the population. In June, Norway provided NOK 60 million in emergency aid to Iraq.  

‘We will now increase Norway’s humanitarian assistance to Iraq by a further NOK 50 million. The support will be channelled through the UN, the International Committee of the Red Cross, Norwegian People’s Aid and other NGOs that have established a presence in Iraq and are thus able to ensure that the aid rapidly reaches those who need it most,’ said Mr Brende.