Petition „Hoffnung für Christen in Irak & Syrien“

To the Secretary General of the United Nations

The people of Syria and Iraq are facing immense suffering due to years of war and violent unrest. We believe that the lives, livelihoods and freedoms of all people in Syria and Iraq should be protected and guaranteed. This includes the Christians.

The church in both these countries has played a vital role in society for almost 2,000 years. Yet Christians continue to face significant targeted violence and persecution. They are committed to being a place of hope and compassion for the years to come but need urgent change to ensure a future in their homelands.

We cannot stand by while Christians and others in the Middle East face unprecedented threat. We must give them hope.

Therefore, we urge you to use your good offices on behalf of Christians and other religious groups in Syria and Iraq to:

• Ensure that the current and future legal frameworks in Syria and Iraq fully promote and protect the equal and inalienable rights of all their citizens, irrespective of race, religion or other status
• Ensure the dignified and continued improvement of living conditions for all citizens, but especially for returning refugees and the internally displaced - including through the provision of adequate housing, education and jobs
• Identify and equip religious leaders and faith-based organisations to play a constructive and central role in reconciling and rebuilding both Syrian and Iraqi societies.