Justiceday 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 12, 2023

Koncicc Network to Advocate for Iraq’s Membership in the International Criminal Court

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region – The Koncicc network, a prominent civic organization in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, is set to spearhead a series of nationwide activities on July 17, 2023, aimed at pressuring the Iraqi government to join the International Criminal Court (ICC).

A petition will be presented to the Iraqi parliament in a show of widespread public demand for Iraq’s ICC membership. Representatives from various genocide organizations in Sulaimani province will personally submit these demands at the office of the Iraqi parliament.

In Erbil, citizens are invited to participate in rallies and press conferences, amplifying the call for Iraq’s commitment to the ICC. Simultaneously, similar activities will be held in the cities of Chamchamal, Kalar, and Rizgari, known as the epicenters of the Anfal genocide. The aim is to invoke the lessons of the past and highlight the critical role of the ICC in preventing the recurrence of such atrocities.

Adding to the day’s events, a solemn press conference will be held at the monument to the victims of chemical weapons in Halabja, memorializing those who suffered and died due to these horrific attacks.

In addition, an informative conference will be held in Kirkuk to discuss the prospective implications of Iraq’s membership in the ICC. The conference will delve into the legal, political, and social benefits of joining the ICC, further underscoring the necessity of this move for Iraq.

The Koncicc network encourages all citizens, organizations, and media to participate in these events, reinforcing the collective call for justice, accountability, and prevention of future genocides in Iraq.

For more information about the day’s events or the Koncicc network, please contact our media liaison.