11/26/2018 Iraq (International Christian Concern) –  When the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) decided to build and expand the airport in Erbil, much of the land which was needed belonged to Christians. It is estimated that of the 200 Christian farmers who subsequently lost their land, only 40 ever received compensation.

The KRG has recently released a statement saying that this is because of budget cuts from Baghdad over the last four years. However, others say that the problem dates back to over a decade ago. Land related disputes between Christians and the KRG are a common occurrence and remain a highly sensitive issue.

Despite the many challenges which Christians living in Iraq face, the KRG remains the safest and most secure area for Christians. Even before ISIS, Christians have had a large presence in the KRG. The demographics significantly altered with the rise of ISIS.

Many Christians fled to the KRG when ISIS invaded the Nineveh Plains in 2014. According to estimates, the KRG welcomed over 136,000 displaced Christians despite the significant strain on local resources. Because the security situation in the Nineveh Plains continues to lack stability, many displaced Christians have expressed reluctance to leave the KRG and return home.

For interviews with Claire Evans, ICC’s Regional Manager, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: [email protected].