Yezidi Women’s Voices Highlighted at Fair Handeln Messe in Stuttgart
The Fair Handeln Messe, held from 9-12 April in Stuttgart, brought together international organizations, policymakers, and civil society actors to spotlight ethical trade and sustainable development. FYF was invited to take part through its longstanding partnership with the Stiftung Entwicklungs-Zusammenarbeit Baden-Württemberg (SEZ).
The event provided a prominent platform to raise awareness in Germany about the experiences of Yezidi women and the importance of women-led initiatives in fostering recovery and resilience. Several politicians and key stakeholders attended the Messe, creating opportunities for dialogue on the ongoing needs of the Yezidi community in Iraq and across the diaspora. The event also featured a talk with Farida Khalaf, who continues to advocate for the plight of Yezidis, the need for justice, and survivor-cenered reparations.
From the left: Philipp Keil, Executive Director of Stiftung Entwicklungs-Zusammenarbeit Baden-Württemberg; Cecilia Pedersen, Programs and Development Manager at Free Yezidi Foundation; Ricarda Lang, Member of the Bundestag for Alliance 90/The Greens; Ziad Sheno, artist and calligrapher from Duhok; and Nadine Elghonimy, Project Coordinator at SEZ.
As part of the SEZ booth, FYF exhibited its “Chonky Animals” initiative, using the platform to share the personal stories behind the project and illustrate how its livelihoods programming supports income generation while promoting dignity, independence, and long-term wellbeing for survivors.
In connection with the Messe, SEZ conducted an in-depth interview with participating artisans and FYF leadership, offering deeper insight into the lived experiences behind the initiative. The interview has been published online and is available in German here.
FYF deeply appreciates SEZ’s continued collaboration in supporting the Yezidi community and amplifying Yezidi voices on the international stage.
Photos by ©SEZ/Fotonoid