In a significant development on July 2, 2024, in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) announced a new initiative aimed at supporting survivors of ISIS. The announcement, made in the presence of representatives from the Yazidi Mir and the Yazidi Spiritual Council, was met with approval from Yazidi Kurds who welcomed the move as a crucial step forward.
The project, set to benefit over 3,000 ISIS survivors, aims to provide them with essential financial grants to help alleviate the hardships they face in rebuilding their lives. This initiative comes in response to the tragic events of August 3, 2014, when ISIS seized control of Sinjar, leading to the displacement of over 350,000 people to the Kurdistan Region, where they found refuge in more than 10 camps.
Herman Mirza Beg, Advisor to the Prime Minister for Yazidi Affairs, highlighted the significance of this support project, emphasizing its role as part of ongoing efforts by the KRG to serve all communities, particularly the Yazidis. He praised Prime Minister Barzani’s unwavering commitment to the Yazidi cause, noting that such initiatives are essential in easing the burden carried by ISIS survivors.
The implementation of this project will be overseen by the Lalish Cultural and Social Center, with Saeed Jerdo, its head, emphasizing the importance of these grants and announcing plans for a future psychological treatment center dedicated to supporting ISIS survivors. Jerdo underscored the KRG’s continued dedication to aiding the Yazidi community, particularly those affected by the Sinjar crisis.
According to Jerdo, the KRG’s support extends beyond financial assistance, reflecting a broader commitment to the well-being and dignity of Yazidis. Khalid Narmo, Advisor to the Yazidi Spiritual Council, echoed these sentiments, expressing appreciation for the KRG’s proactive steps in supporting Yazidis and highlighting the impact of such initiatives on the community’s welfare.
Iman Abdullah, an ISIS survivor, conveyed her gratitude towards Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and the KRG for their support. She emphasized the transformative impact of this financial aid, expressing hope for continued support in the future, as the journey to recovery remains ongoing for many ISIS survivors.
Iman also expressed, “This support is a crucial step for ISIS survivors to regain dignity. We hope that Prime Minister Barzani will continue to stand by us and assist us, as we constantly require support in every aspect of our lives.”
Despite ongoing challenges, such as the delayed implementation of the Sinjar Agreement signed between the KRG and the Iraqi Government in October 2020, efforts continue to normalize the situation in Sinjar. The agreement, focusing on administration, security, and reconstruction, has faced obstacles primarily due to the presence of armed groups in the region.
According to statistics from the Office for Rescuing Kidnapped Yazidis, out of a total of 6,417 kidnapped individuals, 3,576 have been rescued so far, while 2,841 remain missing.
The KRG’s announcement of financial support for ISIS survivors marks a pivotal moment in their ongoing commitment to the Yazidi community. With initiatives aimed at easing the burdens faced by survivors and promoting their well-being, Prime Minister Barzani and the KRG reaffirm their dedication to supporting those affected by the atrocities of ISIS, emphasizing a path towards recovery and dignity for all Yazidis.
The Kurdish Globe: Karwan Baa’dri