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Written question asked by Baroness Nicholson of Winterbourne (Conservative) on Thursday, 17 September 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 1 October 2026. It was answered by Lord Wood of Anfield (Labour) on Friday, 2 October 2026 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Iraq: Religious Freedom

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the government of Iraq regarding freedom of religion or belief protections for Yazidi and other minority communities returning to Sinjar under the United Nations Development Programme’s new framework.

Answer

The UK is in regular contact with the Government of Iraq, the Kurdistan Regional Government and the United Nations on recovery and development in Sinjar and the rights of Yazidis.

We are aware of the United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Sinjar Investment and Development Plan and await further details on its implementation and financing. Currently, through the British Embassy Baghdad's Building Peace and Stability in Iraq (BPSI) programme, the UK is supporting durable solutions in conflict-affected areas, including Sinjar, with a focus on livelihoods, social cohesion and support to displaced and returning communities. BPSI has also provided targeted support to Yazidi survivors and beneficiaries of the Yazidi Survivors Law. Through our Embassy in Baghdad and Consulate in Erbil, the UK continues to promote freedom of religion or belief and monitor conditions for the dignified return of displaced Yazidis.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL3727
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Iraq Minority groups Religious freedom Yazidis
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk