Advocating for Justice: FYF Meets with U.S. State Department in Erbil

FYF’s Country Director met with the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Religious Freedom team in Erbil, alongside fellow NGOs working to advance human rights across Iraq.

Representing FYF as a Yezidi women-led, survivor-driven organization, our Country Director spoke about our work since the genocide—supporting Yezidi survivors, women, and other vulnerable communities. She highlighted the urgency of continued U.S. support, especially as half the Yezidi population remains displaced, Sinjar lies in ruins, and thousands are still missing.

She emphasized that funding must reach organizations rooted in the communities they serve—those delivering real, lasting impact. FYF embodies this through our mission-aligned, women-led programs that empower and uplift.

We’re grateful to the State Department and the U.S. Consulate for their recognition of FYF’s work and for their commitment to freedom of religion, expression, and minority rights.