Iraq’s Desperate Plea for the Release of a Kidnapped Scholar

Latest Abduction in Pattern of Enforced Disappearances

Amnesty International, along with three other human rights organizations, has called on the Iraqi government to ensure the immediate release of Elizabeth Tsurkov, a US-based scholar who was kidnapped in Iraq on March 21, 2023. Tsurkov, a dual Russian and Israeli citizen, was conducting field research on Shia movements in Iraq when she was abducted in the Karrada neighborhood of Baghdad.

A Disturbing Pattern

Elizabeth Tsurkov’s abduction is not an isolated incident but rather part of a wider pattern of targeted kidnappings in Iraq, both by state-affiliated and non-state actors. According to Adam Coogle, deputy Middle East director at Human Rights Watch, these abductions are carried out with impunity, and it is the responsibility of the Iraqi government to ensure Tsurkov’s safety and hold her abductors accountable.

Investigation and Justice

The Iraqi government opened an investigation into Tsurkov’s kidnapping in July, but no findings or progress have been made public yet. The organizations involved in the appeal stress the importance of bringing those responsible for these enforced disappearances to justice through fair trials.

A Distinguished Scholar and Activist

Elizabeth Tsurkov is a dedicated scholar and human rights activist with extensive experience working for organizations fighting for the rights of Palestinians, refugees and migrants, torture survivors, and ethnic and religious minorities. She is a doctoral student at Princeton University, specializing in the politics of the Levant, particularly Iraq, Syria, Israel, and Palestine.

Research Focus and Commitment to Understanding

Tsurkov’s research focuses on the Sadrist and Tishreen movements in Iraq and the mass protests that occurred in the country between 2019 and 2021. She believes that academic research plays a crucial role in building understanding between people with a history of conflict. That belief is what drew her to Iraq, and it is her commitment to learning Arabic that enabled her to engage with local communities and contribute to peacebuilding efforts.

Concerns for Health and Well-being

Elizabeth Tsurkov’s family has expressed deep concern for her health and well-being. She was abducted shortly after undergoing emergency spinal surgery, and her family worries about her recovery and access to proper medical care. They are eager for her safe return to the United States.

An Armed Group’s Denial and Implications

The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office made a public statement on July 5, attributing Tsurkov’s abduction to Kata’ib Hezbollah, a unit within the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) in Iraq. However, Kata’ib Hezbollah has publicly denied any involvement. This contradiction highlights the complexity and internal power dynamics within the PMF, which operates as an armed group under the control of the prime minister but frequently disregards the government’s authority.

Enforced Disappearances and Freedom of Expression

Enforced disappearances have become a means to silence activists and protesters in Iraq and have had a chilling effect on freedom of expression. The organizations involved in the appeal emphasize that Iraq, as a state party to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances, has a legal obligation to criminalize enforced disappearances, investigate them thoroughly, hold responsible individuals accountable, and provide reparation for victims.

International Pressure for Release

Given Elizabeth Tsurkov’s dual citizenship with Russia and Israel, it is essential that these countries utilize their influence to secure her immediate release. The four organizations involved in the appeal are Amnesty International, Democracy for the Arab World Now, Human Rights Watch, and the Scholars at Risk Network.

Conclusion

The abduction of Elizabeth Tsurkov is a deeply concerning incident in the broader context of enforced disappearances in Iraq. It is crucial for the Iraqi government to take decisive action to ensure her safety and hold her abductors accountable. Additionally, Iraq should prioritize the criminalization of enforced disappearances and work towards a society that respects and upholds human rights, including the right to security, dignity, and freedom of expression. It is our hope that international pressure and support will ultimately lead to Elizabeth Tsurkov’s release and the end of such heinous acts in Iraq.

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