Insights
In Memoriam: Yanar Mohammed
Outright International mourns the devastating loss of Yanar Mohammed, co-founder and director of the Organization of Women's Freedom in Iraq, who was recently assassinated in Baghdad.
Yanar Mohammed was a fearless and unyielding advocate for women’s rights, secular democracy, and the dignity and safety of marginalized communities across Iraq. As the founder and leader of OWFI, she dedicated her life to defending women facing gender-based violence, forced marriage, trafficking, and so-called “honor” killings. She built shelters, mobilized international solidarity, and spoke truth to power — at immense personal risk.
For decades, Yanar stood at the forefront of feminist resistance in Iraq. Her voice resonated far beyond her country’s borders, challenging extremism, patriarchy, and political repression wherever they took root. She reminded the world that women’s freedom is inseparable from justice and peace.
Her assassination is not only a profound personal tragedy for her family, friends, and colleagues — it is an attack on the principles of equality and human rights she embodied. Yet those who sought to silence her have instead strengthened the resolve of a global movement that she helped shape.
Outright International stands in unwavering solidarity with our partners at OWFI and with activists across Iraq who continue this vital work under extraordinarily difficult circumstances. We call for accountability and for the meaningful protection of human rights defenders everywhere.
Yanar Mohammed’s courage, clarity, and compassion will endure. Her legacy lives on in the institutions she built, every life she helped save, and every voice she inspired to rise.
May she rest in power.
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