ICSSI Statement on the Assassination of Yanar Mohammed

ICSSI is devastated by the killing of Yanar Mohammed, President and co-founder of the Organisation of Women’s Freedom in Iraq (OWFI), in Baghdad on 2 March 2026. She was shot outside her home and later died from her injuries despite medical efforts.

Yanar was one of Iraq’s most courageous feminist leaders and women’s rights defenders. For more than two decades, she stood with women and girls escaping domestic violence, forced marriage and trafficking, and helped build safe houses that offered protection when few other options existed. She continued this work despite threats and incitement, refusing to be silenced.

Her death is a deep loss for OWFI and for Iraq’s feminist movement. It is also an attack on women human rights defenders and on civil society more broadly, at a time when intimidation, harassment and violence are increasingly used to silence those who speak out.

ICSSI echoes OWFI’s call for accountability. Iraqi authorities must launch an immediate, independent and transparent investigation – identifying not only the gunmen, but also anyone who ordered, enabled, financed or covered up this crime – and ensure accountability under the law. Protection measures for women human rights defenders and activists must also be strengthened in practice, not only on paper.

We also call for urgent international attention and support. In a context marked by instability and violence, women human rights defenders and feminist activists in Iraq are working under growing fear and pressure. They must be able to continue their work safely; without being targeted, isolated, or abandoned.

To the international community and relevant UN mechanisms: monitor this case closely, demand accountability, and support concrete protection measures for women human rights defenders in Iraq.

We stand with OWFI, with Yanar’s family and colleagues, and with all women human rights defenders who continue their work under risk and pressure.

They must not be left alone.

Iraqi Civil Society Solidarity Initiative (ICSSI)
Baghdad / 3 March 2026