German Court Rules Against Repatriation of Yezidi Family to Germany

A recent ruling by the Potsdam Administrative Court has determined that a Yezidi family deported to Iraq will not be allowed to return to Germany. The court’s decision came during summary proceedings on Thursday, marking a significant setback for the family, which includes four children.

The family had been living in the northeastern town of Lychen for several years before their deportation on July 22, 2023. They were removed from Germany while an urgent appeal regarding their asylum status was still pending. Although the court had previously lifted the obligation for the family to leave the country, this decision arrived too late, as they were already en route to Iraq.

In a further blow, the Potsdam Administrative Court dismissed a lawsuit filed by the family challenging the rejection of their asylum application. The court’s spokesman confirmed that the ruling is final, leaving the family without options for repatriation.

The Yezidis, a religious minority group, have faced severe persecution, particularly at the hands of the Islamic State terror group, which has been responsible for mass atrocities against them. In a significant acknowledgment of these crimes, the German parliament recognized the actions of the Islamist militia as genocide in 2023.

This ruling raises concerns about the treatment of vulnerable populations and the responsibilities of countries towards those fleeing persecution. As the situation for many Yezidis remains precarious, the implications of this decision may resonate beyond this particular case, affecting future asylum seekers and their rights in Germany.