Nadia’s Initiative Statement on Conviction of ISIS Member in Belgium

The conviction of an ISIS member in Belgium for genocide and crimes against humanity committed against the Yazidi community represents a landmark in the global pursuit of justice for ISIS’s atrocities.

Nadia’s Initiative has worked closely with prosecutors, investigators, and survivors throughout this process. We commend the extraordinary bravery of the women who testified, and the dedication of all those who helped bring this case to trial.

This verdict affirms that justice is possible when survivors are heard, their suffering is acknowledged, and the crimes they endured are recognized under international law.

We hope this ruling will reverberate across Europe and serve as a reminder that many European nationals participated in ISIS’s atrocities, contributing to the suffering of Yazidi women and children. European governments have a moral responsibility to acknowledge this role, to ensure protection and asylum for Yazidis seeking safety, and to continue supporting the recovery and reconstruction of the Yazidi community through sustained political engagement, development assistance, and other forms of support.

Nadia’s Initiative remains committed to standing with survivors and advancing justice and accountability for the atrocities committed against the Yazidi people and other vulnerable communities.