Killing of Iraqi activist Yanar Mohammed prompts justice calls

Prominent Iraqi women’s rights activist Yanar Mohammed was killed earlier this week in Baghdad. Unidentified gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire outside her home, resulting in her death despite efforts to save her life.

Background

Yanar Mohammed, 66, was a co-founder of the Organisation of Women’s Freedom in Iraq. She was a leading voice for women’s rights in Iraq, working since the early 2000s to protect women facing gender-based violence, including domestic abuse, trafficking, and honor killings. Her work included establishing safe houses for hundreds of women experiencing exploitation and abuse.

Condemnation and Investigation

The Organisation of Women’s Freedom in Iraq strongly condemned the killing, calling it a “cowardly terrorist crime” and a direct attack on the feminist struggle. Amnesty International described the attack as “brutal” and a calculated assault to stifle human rights defenders. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al‑Sudani has ordered an investigation into the incident.

Mohammed’s Work and Advocacy

Mohammed’s activism extended to supporting Iraqi women who were victims of violence perpetrated by ISIS (ISIL). In a 2022 interview with Al Jazeera, she highlighted the plight of Muslim-Arab women enslaved by ISIS and the lack of recognition for their suffering within the international community. She advocated for compensation and respect for the dignity of these victims.

Years of Threats

Mohammed had faced death threats for decades aimed at discouraging her from defending women’s rights. Despite these threats from ISIS and other armed groups, she remained steadfast in her advocacy. In 2016, she was awarded the Rafto Prize for her tireless work for women’s rights in Iraq.

Tributes and Reactions

Numerous activists and human rights groups have paid tribute to Mohammed. Human Rights Watch described her as one of Iraq’s most courageous advocates for women’s rights. Agnes Callamard, secretary-general of Amnesty International, praised her courage and commitment to the feminist cause. The Rafto Foundation expressed deep shock and described her assassination as an attack on fundamental values of freedom and human rights.