Jiyan Foundation For Human Rights

Jiyan Foundation Condemns Attacks on Civilian Areas in Aleppo and Calls for Immediate Dialogue, De-escalation, and the Deployment of UN Peacekeeping Troops

Delman — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 21:07:55 +0000

PRESS RELEASE

QAMISHLO, SYRIA—January 10, 2026 — As security conditions in Aleppo continue to deteriorate, Jiyan Foundation for Human Rights expresses its deep concern over the intensifying military activities in the Kurdish neighbourhoods of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh and their impact on civilian populations.

These densely populated neighbourhoods are home to thousands of families, many of whom are already dealing with the long-term consequences of conflict and displacement. Reports from local sources indicate that dozens of civilians have been killed, alongside the forced displacement of minority communities, the disruption of essential life-saving services, and significant damage to civilian infrastructure. These developments are further aggravating an already severe humanitarian crisis and increasing the risk of social and ethnic fragmentation.

A necessary prerequisite for transitional justice is the establishment and deployment of a United Nations peacekeeping mission on the ground in Syria. This would not only ensure endangered minorities a degree of security but also strengthen the rule of law, promote human rights, and support political processes.”
Dr. Bojan GavrilovicHead of the Rights and Justice

Jiyan Foundation reiterates its call for the establishment and deployment of a United Nations peacekeeping mission in Syria as a necessary foundation for transitional justice. Such a mission would help protect endangered minorities, strengthen the rule of law, promote human rights, and support a credible and inclusive political process. All international engagements with Syria must prioritise this mission.

Peaceful coexistence, respect for minority rights, and the protection of civilians are essential foundations for a just, inclusive, and lasting peace. Continued violence in Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafiyeh, and other civilian areas not only costs lives but also undermines prospects for reconciliation and long-term stability in Syria.

Jiyan Foundation calls on all parties, including national authorities and the international community, to support immediate de-escalation, ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access, and pursue dialogue-based solutions that protect civilians and preserve social cohesion.

Read the press release in Arabic or Kurdish (Kurmanji)

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Survivors of violence need care, justice, and dignity to rebuild their lives.

Your support helps Jiyan Foundation provide trauma care, legal assistance, and long-term rehabilitation.

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Jiyan Foundation and C4JR Welcome Barham Salih’s Appointment as UN High Commissioner for Refugees

Delman — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 16:57:37 +0000

The Jiyan Foundation for Human Rights and the Coalition for Just Reparations (C4JR) warmly congratulate Dr. Barham Salih on his appointment as United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). We take this opportunity to recall his pivotal role in advancing justice for survivors of ISIL crimes in Iraq, particularly through his leadership in the enactment of the Yazidi Female Survivors Law (YSL).

By exercising the President’s underutilised power of legislative initiative, President Salih and his associates drafted the initial version of the YSL and submitted it to the Iraqi Parliament on 28 March 2019. Following its adoption by the Iraqi Council of Representatives on 1 March 2021, President Salih ratified the law on 8 March 2021—International Women’s Day—formally bringing it into force.

The YSL represents a landmark step in addressing the legacy of ISIL’s atrocities against Yazidi, Christian, Turkmen, and Shabak communities. It formally recognises acts of genocide and establishes a framework for financial and non-financial reparations for survivors. By specifically addressing women survivors of conflict-related sexual violence, Iraq became one of the first countries in the MENA region to acknowledge such crimes and pursue redress in line with international standards.

It should be recalled that the initial YSL text, introduced by the Iraqi Presidency, was already particularly progressive in scope. Namely, it extended beyond compensation to encompass a comprehensive set of material and symbolic reparative measures, including rehabilitation, land and housing, education, recognition of genocide, memorialization, the search for the missing, and a commitment to accountability. The draft also contained provisions aimed at improving the legal and social status of children born of wartime sexual violence. Furthermore, by drafting and submitting the bill, President Salih created space for meaningful engagement of survivors, civil society organizations, activists and the international community to strengthen the initial text, advocate for its adoption and survivor-centered implementation. Thus, the significance and positive impact of the initial YSL draft cannot be overstated, particularly given the largely symbolic role of the Head of State under Iraq’s 2005 Constitution.

Reflecting on his motivation to champion the YSL, President Salih stated:

“What motivated me was a sense of responsibility, was a sense of ethics. [Also the] fact that the victims of ISIS, especially the Yazidi girls who were abducted and treated the way that they were, represented the most extreme case of brutality, of man against women against fellow man. As a State of Iraq, as a Muslim, as a Kurd, as a President, as a human being, I felt that we really needed to act. To me, no amount of reparation, no amount of recognition could ever undo the injustice that befalls these people. I hope that this will be the beginning of a process by which we will not only provide reparation from the Iraqi state and the Iraqi authorities, which is a moral responsibility in so many ways towards our own citizens and our own people but also hopefully, the day will come when we are able to galvanize and mobilize serious international efforts [so that] whoever helped ISIS perpetrate these crimes, should pay for these crimes and should be paying reparation for the victims, Yazidis foremost among them, who really have suffered a terrible, terrible ordeal during that period”.

President Salih further reflects on his role in advancing reparations in the first episode of C4JR’s podcast series, “More Than Ink on Paper,” which aired on March 8, 2023, where he discusses accountability and justice for survivors of ISIL crimes.

For the latest updates on the implementation of the Yazidi Female Survivors Law, subscribe to the C4JR newsletter.

Stand with Survivors

Survivors of violence need care, justice, and dignity to rebuild their lives.

Your support helps Jiyan Foundation provide trauma care, legal assistance, and long-term rehabilitation.

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Flood Devastates Jiyan Foundation’s Healing Garden in Chamchamal – Urgent Support Needed

Delman — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 22:36:28 +0000

PRESS RELEASE / EMERGENCY APPEAL

For Immediate Release

Chamchamal, Kurdistan Region – Iraq — December 9, 2025

The Jiyan Foundation for Human Rights is deeply saddened to announce that unprecedented rainfall-induced severe flooding has devastated the Healing Garden in Chamchamal.

This unique sanctuary—home to trauma therapy programs, environmental education, and animal-assisted rehabilitation—has suffered extensive destruction. The flooding submerged several therapy rooms and facilities, ruined essential equipment and materials, and severely damaged large sections of the garden’s infrastructure. Tragically, the event happened too rapidly, and our team was not able to save all the birds that support our therapeutic activities.

Early assessments indicate significant losses and damage to equipment and machinery. These include our biogas unit, greywater treatment facility, solar water pathways, and irrigation network. Trees, plants, and green learning spaces have been destroyed, interrupting vital nature-based healing programmes for survivors of genocide, war, gender-based violence, and domestic violence.

“We are heartbroken. The Healing Garden has always been a place of safety and recovery for people who have lived through unimaginable trauma. Seeing it destroyed is devastating—but we are determined to rebuild. We ask everyone who believes in healing, peace, and dignity to stand with us in this difficult moment.”

Hawre Rasool- Psychotherapist

For nearly a decade, the Healing Garden has provided a safe and peaceful environment where women, children, and families in Chamchamal—many of them survivors of the Anfal Genocide (1986–1989) and ongoing conflict—receive trauma-informed care, animal-assisted therapy, and empowerment programs. Today, this place of healing urgently needs its own support.

As we enter the Christmas and New Year season—a time of generosity, hope, and compassion—we call on our global community to stand with us. Your support can help rebuild what was lost and restore a sanctuary relied upon by hundreds of survivors.

We urgently appeal to our community, partners, and supporters worldwide for assistance.

Your contribution will help us:

Ensure uninterrupted support for hundreds of survivors who depend on our services
Repair flood-damaged buildings and therapy rooms
Restore the biogas, solar power, and water treatment systems
Replace essential therapy equipment and materials
Rebuild damaged agricultural and ecotherapy areas
Care for surviving animals

Every donation—large or small—directly supports the recovery of a space that has transformed countless lives.

How to Support

Every donation—large or small—directly supports the recovery of a space that has transformed countless lives.

We welcome urgent discussions with foundations, institutional donors, and partners interested in supporting the restoration and long-term resilience of the Healing Garden.

The post Flood Devastates Jiyan Foundation’s Healing Garden in Chamchamal – Urgent Support Needed appeared first on Jiyan Foundation For Human Rights.

Learning from Iraq: Ten Transitional Justice Lessons for Syria

Pauline Marsden — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 07:50:58 +0000

Learning from Iraq: Ten Transitional Justice Lessons for Syria

Lessons from Iraq show that justice and peace must go hand in hand. All survivors should be able to see their tormenters called to account before a court of law and realize their right to reparations without being excluded or stigmatized. Political power-sharing and inclusive solutions for land, property, and minority rights are essential. Effective accountability mechanism and civilian oversight of the security sector are required to prevent renewed violence and ensure stability.

All those working on transitional justice (TJ) are looking hopefully towards Syria. The unique window of opportunity to engage and shape the reality for hundreds of thousands if not millions of survivors, families of victims and many others affected by the devastating nearly 15-year conflict is still open.

This paper shares Jiyan Foundation’s lessons from its two decades long work in neighboring Iraq on providing rehabilitation services for torture survivors, supporting marginalized communities and advancing TJ processes. It is written for international and national actors shaping TJ processes in Syria, in particular policymakers, civil society partners and donors.

We recognize the strong parallels between Iraq and Syria which lend credence to recommendations presented below. Namely, both were under Ottoman rule and subsequently shaped by the British and French mandates established under the Sykes–Picot Agreement. There are similarities in the ethnic, religious, linguistic and geographical landscapes¹. Both countries have suffered decades long Baathist dictatorships, protracted conflicts, civil wars, and foreign interventions.

While acknowledging that each context is unique and that copy-paste formulas should be avoided, we favor a “lessons learned” approach to advancing progress in post-dictatorship contexts. The goal was to develop practice-based recommendations on what to consider or avoid in order to establish an inclusive, meaningful and realistic TJ model for Syria.

Learning from Iraq: Ten Transitional Justice Sessions for Syria

(PDF Download)

1. Avoid general and sweeping lustration or vetting programs that could alienate significant parts of the population

The Ba’ath Party had an almost complete hold on political representation of Sunni Arabs in Iraq; a meaningful Sunni Arab opposition did not exist. Post-war De-Ba’athification in Iraq excluded members of the Ba’ath Party from holding political office or positions in the military, at a time when a sizable part of the Sunni population was involved with the party, though many joined because it was mandatory for their chosen profession. De-Ba’athification was therefore experienced as exclusion from political participation and collective punishment among Sunni Arabs². The political vacuum and vulnerability in the Sunni community paved the way for Islamist groups, insurgency and violent internal conflict. The Iraqi example offers a warning against general exclusion of large swaths of the population from the institutions of a renewed Syria.

While at the outset many Iraqis thought of De-Baathification as a policy that should prosecute perpetrators, secure reparations, return stolen property, create memorials, revise educational curricula and prevent the Baath Party’s return to power³, these objectives were never achieved due to fundamental flaws. Any vetting process in Syria should therefore be individualized, transparent, and based on proven conduct, not rank or affiliation⁴.

2. Prioritize sustainable and coordinated provision of rehabilitation services including but not limited to psychosocial and medical support, for survivors of torture and other grave human rights violations

Rehabilitation services are often mistakenly understood to equate only to psychosocial and medical services. Jiyan Foundation´s understanding of rehabilitation is informed and guided by the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT) Global Standards on Rehabilitation of Torture Victims to ensure holistic, high-quality, survivor-centered care addressing physical, mental, legal, and social needs of survivors⁵.

In Iraq the infrastructure for rehabilitation was set up in a fractured and localized manner, and remains dependent on uncertain, short-term grants by a wide array of foreign donors. We believe it is preferable to set up a blueprint for a unified system for the entire country, possibly through a national rehabilitation fund, mapping where such centers already exist and building up referral systems to avoid overlapping, and allow for a better integration into national and permanent structures. Moreover, such a model should encompass a central hub serving as the primary coordination and capacity-building center, complemented by satellite centers located near survivor communities. The hub, led by leading experts, would provide training for emerging professionals (e.g., junior doctors, psychologists, social workers, and educational specialists), supervise therapists, develop ethical codes of conduct, and engage survivors in consultation. It would integrate three key components: training (to develop a national workforce), capacity-building (to strengthen external expertise), and service delivery (to provide specialized, holistic rehabilitation).

Services should encompass psychological care, medical assistance, legal aid, vocational training, family interventions, and social support. Donors should support a gradual transfer of services into the state system, with a clear roadmap towards integration and sustainability⁶.

3. Avoid peace and justice trade off by creating strong institutions with a mandate to hold accountable all parties to the conflict

Following the toppling of the Baath regime, Iraqi High Tribunal was established to try Saddam Hussein and members of the Ba’ath party accused of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. However, Saddam Hussein himself was never held accountable for his crimes against the Iraqi Kurds as he was, following a final guilty verdict in the Al-Dujail case and his subsequent execution in December 2006, withdrawn as a defendant in an Al-Anfal case⁷. For his victims this precluded the satisfaction and official recognition of what they had suffered.

In 2017, responding to calls for justice for victims of the self-declared Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), the UN Security Council established the UN Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da’esh/ISIL (UNITAD)⁸. This UN body was mandated to collect, preserve, and store evidence of ISIL-perpetrated acts amounting to core international crimes for use in Iraqi or third-country courts⁹. However, UNITAD’s mandate was limited to ISIL crimes and excluded atrocities committed by other parties. Crucially, its evidence has not served its intended purpose, as Iraq failed to incorporate international crimes into domestic law. Instead, thousands of alleged ISIL members were prosecuted under counter-terrorism laws through opaque proceedings lacking fair trial guarantees¹⁰. The Iraqi experience highlights a critical lesson: accountability mechanisms must not target only one party, regardless of duration and magnitude of the crimes committed. Effective transitional justice requires a comprehensive mandate to investigate and prosecute all perpetrators, including those currently in power. No actor should be beyond the reach of justice.

4. Condition any substantive support for any transitional justice processes including criminal justice with clear and measurable commitment on the part of the receiving authorities to deliver

Though UNITAD was established to collect and preserve evidence on international crimes committed by ISIL only, Iraqi civil society supported its work irrespective of this, as it reasoned that a measure of justice is better than no justice at all¹¹. However, UNITAD´s mandate was terminated prematurely, again upon request of Iraq. The main problem was sharing of evidence as Iraq did not meet its commitment to codify international crimes and create a criminal accountability mechanism capable of putting the evidence collected to their intended use¹². So, integral evidence was archived at the UN Headquarters without a possibility of being used for accountability purposes, neither in Iraq, nor elsewhere.

Lesson for Syria is that before such a mission is deployed, explicit commitment must be secured to ensure that evidence collected will be put to its intended use in the receiving country and that it will remain available for accountability purposes elsewhere. Moreover, international support should be conditioned by reaching tangible previously defined milestones or benchmarks¹³.

5. Pursue multi track approach towards realizing distinct, Comprehensive, and Inclusive TJ measures

What concerns reparations one should consider Iraq´s effort to directly address conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) ISIL deliberately inflicted upon Iraqi ethno-religious minorities, particularly the Yazidis. The passing of the Yazidi Survivors Law (YSL) on March 1, 2021, marked an important milestone in Iraq’s post-conflict recovery period, as it promised to deliver long-awaited relief not only to Yazidi, Shabak, Turkmen and Christian women and girls that ISIL subjected to CRSV, but also to men who survived mass killings as well as captured Yazidi children. The YSL mandates several critical state-sponsored reparative measures including financial support, medical and psychological care, provision of land, housing, education, and a quota in public sector employment.

Moreover, it officially recognizes that ISIL committed genocide and crimes against humanity against Yazidi, Christian, Turkmen, and Shabak minority groups and mandates memorialization, search for missing persons, the opening of mass graves, identification of remains and their return to their families, and calls for Iraqi institutions to ensure that perpetrators of genocide and crimes against humanity are held accountable. In addition, the associated bylaws expanded these obligations even further, including an obligation for government agencies to develop specialized curricula on the ISIL conflict designed to promote peaceful coexistence and the renunciation of violence. Finally, the YSL explicitly stipulates an objective to prevent the recurrence of the violations that occurred against the indicated minorities. Jiyan Foundation spearheaded an alliance of Iraqi NGOs (Coalition for Just Reparations-C4JR) who contributed to enactment of the YSL. It created a Draft law on Reparations for Survivors of Conflict Related Sexual Violence Committed During the ISIS Conflict in Iraq¹⁴ and conducted advocacy towards improving the initial YSL draft. It also provided recommendations for the YSL implementing regulations¹⁵ and regularly reported on YSL implementation efforts¹⁶. The broad outlook of the YSL was very much welcomed by the Iraqi civil society and praised internationally. Moreover, it was seen as a milestone in Iraq and the region.

However, looking back, more than 4 years after the YSL enactment, it turns out that mandating criminal accountability in the YSL—a law whose primary objective is to establish an administrative reparation program— was not the most appropriate approach. Moreover, such an approach seems to have produced a counter effect, in that it decreased rather than expanded the rights of survivors. Namely, it did not lead to delivering criminal convictions for international crimes, but it introduced high (judicial) standard of proof thus closing off pathways to reparations for many survivors. This would then make a good case for prioritizing a two-track approach—separating reparations from criminal accountability entirely— in other post conflict settings, including Syria.

6. Prioritize reparations for all victims of grave human rights violations in Syria committed by all parties to the conflict

YSL, enacted by the Iraqi Council of Representatives in March 2021, is seen as a good practice as it brought a claim to comprehensive reparations to women from minority components harmed by ISIL. However, from relevant services envisaged to rectify the harm inflicted on survivors such as rehabilitation, land, housing, employment, education etc, only compensation is being regularly disbursed. Furthermore, the application, review and appeal process under the YSL have been overly restrictive, placing an undue burden on survivors. Also, though minorities were indeed particularly targeted by ISIL, they represent only a fraction of ISIL crimes. A great number of ISIL survivors as well as those harmed by other parties to the conflict, are left out, marginalized and neglected.

Syria should take an inclusive “Leave No One Behind” approach, prioritizing interim reparations for the most vulnerable survivors. Other forms of reparations, such as land grants, tax exemptions, educational opportunities and preferential employment in new or reformed state organs could offer avenues to reparations independent of limited fiscal capacities. General reparation legislation, applicable to different categories of victims, has also an advantage in that it may reduce stigma related to wartime sexual violence and sexual torture in the sense that survivors will not be singled out or exposed within their respective families and communities. Acknowledgment and openness to holistic and inclusive solutions should guide the process. The international community should support these efforts and contribute as much as possible to reparations.

7. Consider including certain power sharing arrangement between different ethnic and religious groups in forms of federalism or autonomy

Iraq is the only state with a substantial Kurdish population enjoying formal autonomy and self-governance. Although tensions and occasional conflict between the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the Federal Government in Baghdad are often cited as sources of instability, in actual fact the opposite is true. Kurdish autonomy was crucial to maintaining national unity after the fall of the Ba’ath regime. The autonomous region also proved very resilient and stable during the ISIL created conflict in Iraq.

The deficiencies of this arrangement largely result from the failure to implement constitutional provisions—particularly regarding disputed territories like Kirkuk—alongside systemic corruption, democratic deficits, and the effects of protracted armed conflict. Similarly, Syria has functioned for the past 15 years as a de facto federation, with North-East Syria assuming key state functions and exercising effective control. Rather than opposing this expression of local self-rule, Syrian authorities should engage all stakeholders in a constructive dialogue to establish a functional and sustainable governance framework that provides a fair degree of autonomy for minority populations.

8. Avoid repeated, and overlapping documentation of human rights violations, ensure survivor’ participation through ethical engagement, create safe spaces and procedures

In response to the wartime crimes perpetrated by ISIL, comprehensive documentation efforts were undertaken in Iraq. Such efforts, initially conducted by Iraqi NGOs, and later by state institutions, and international organizations such as UNITAD, led to repetition and burdened the survivors and their communities. This led not only to putting survivors and their families over and again in stressful and potentially re-traumatizing situations, but also to creating unrealistic expectations that justice will be served and reparations provided in a survivor-centered and timely manner. Documentation can serve as a powerful tool for justice, shaping opportunities—or imposing limitations—on the pursuit of various justice processes¹⁷. Over-documentation, however, presents a significant challenge. Repeatedly requiring survivors to recount their testimonies at different stages of the TJ processes risks re-traumatization, potentially delays access to justice and reparations. Addressing these issues demands a more coordinated, trauma-informed approach to documentation—one that minimizes harm and respects the complexity of survivors’ experiences.

Moreover, survivors’ participation across all pillars and stages of the TJ processes¹⁸ should be ensured through ethical engagement including regular consultations, co-creation initiatives and support for their self-organization. Engagement should be diversified to reflect victimhoods and distinct experiences of different victim and survivor groups (women, ethnoreligious minorities, regime opponents etc.).

9. Prioritize guarantees of non-repetition through creating realistic and lasting reforms in an inclusive consultative process

The 2005 Constitution of Iraq, enacted after comprehensive deliberation among Iraqi power blocks, Shia Arab, Sunni Arab and Sunni Kurds, formulated a pathway to righting wrongs stemming from Saddam Hussein’s rule, most notably demographic engineering pursued through Arabization politics. The agreement was that the status of contested areas such as Kirkuk was to be resolved through a process stipulated in the constitution itself. Regrettably, 20 years later, constitutional provisions remain unimplemented, which led to growing rift between communities in the country and general disillusionment with the purpose and role of the constitution itself. Prolonged conflict between the central government and the KRG culminating in the 2017 independence referendum plays out first and foremost to the detriment of the citizens, especially those in the Kurdistan region of Iraq, who do not receive their salaries as Baghdad uses transfer of funds for salaries as leverage against the KRG. All of this contributes to the erosion of trust in state and general apathy.
Moreover, despite Iraq’s parliament passing the land restitution act in 2025 with a view to return land confiscated by Baath regime to original owners, Kurdish and Turkmen farmers still cannot regain factual control over their land seized over half a century ago. Namely, as the said legislation does not contain specific implementation mechanisms it can, thus, be simply ignored by competent authorities. It is important for Syria to address housing, land and property (HLP) issues within the period of transformation. Instead of searching for grand solutions for structural, decades old HLP problems and setting strict time limits, it may be more promising to prioritize inclusive consultation processes aimed at finding and quickly implementing solutions for specific problems. Such “lesser” successes would increase trust among the parties involved and lead to further positive developments.

10. Create unified armed and police forces inclusive of all relevant components of society, exercising their authority with accountability and under civil oversight

The militarization of public space in Iraq has deeply eroded state authority and weakened prospects for stability¹⁹. One of the most critical lessons from the Iraqi experience is the failure to unify armed forces under a single national command. More than two decades after 2003, Iraq remains fragmented by the presence of over 70 armed groups, many of which operate autonomously and, in some cases, under the direct influence of foreign states²⁰. This proliferation of militias has resulted in competing power centers, undermining governance, fostering lawlessness, and entrenching external interference in domestic affairs.

For Syria, avoiding a similar trajectory is imperative. Any post-conflict security architecture must prioritize unified command structure of armed forces at federal and/or regional level. At the very least, effective mechanisms for coordination, transparency, and accountability of all groups authorized to bear arms must be established. This is essential to restore the state’s monopoly on the legitimate use of force, prevent factionalism, and guarantee civilian control over security institutions. Failure to do so risks perpetuating cycles of violence, empowering warlords, and creating fertile ground for renewed conflict and external manipulation. A coherent, accountable security sector is indispensable for sustainable peace and the rule of law.

Dr. Bojan Gavrilovic

Head of Rights & Justice

Author:

Dr. Bojan Gavrilovic, Head of Program for Rights and Justice,
in cooperation with the Programs for Democracy and Civil Society as well as the Trauma Care and Health, with colleagues from our center in Qamishli, Syria, the PR department, and other colleagues at Jiyan.

¹ Northern Syria and Iraq are comparatively rich in water resources and have historically been the southernmost extent of rainfed
agriculture in South-Western Asia. Both countries have majority Muslim populations (with Sunni and Shia communities), are
dominated by ethnic Arabs, with large Kurdish alongside other ethno-religious minorities such as Turkmen, Yazidi, Christians etc.

² For a detailed account of Iraq’s De-Baathification efforts see Miranda Sissons and Abdulrazzaq al – Saiedi , “ Bitter Legacy :
Lessons of De- Baathification in Iraq, International Center for Transitional Justice, March 2013, at:
https://www.ictj.org/sites/default/files/ICTJ-Report-Iraq-De-Baathification-2013-ENG.pdf

³ See Eric Stover , Miranda Sissons , Phuong Pham , and Patrick Vinck, “ Justice on Hold : Accountability and Social
Reconstruction in Iraq , ” International Review of the Red Cross, Volume 90 Number 869 (March 2008), p.22, at:https://international-review.icrc.org/sites/default/files/irrc-869.pdf

⁴ For relevant standards on vetting see OHCHR, Rule-of-law tools for post-conflict States: Vetting: an operational framework,
2006, at: https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Publications/RuleoflawVettingen.pdf

⁵ IRCT´s Global Standards on Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (GSR), adopted in October 2020 by the IRCT General Assembly,
is a comprehensive, internationally recognized framework for supporting the healing of torture survivors. These standards provide
best practices for member centers to deliver integrated medical, psychological, legal, and social support, emphasizing
survivor-centered care and empowerment. GSR are available at:https://irct.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/IRCT_Global_Standards_on_Rehabilitation_of_torture_victims_2020.pdf

⁶ For the first outline of this proposal in Iraqi context see: Jiyan Foundation, Assessment Report: “Outlining Practical Options for
Improving the Legal Framework in Iraq Addressing the Needs of (CAAFAG), Their Families, and Their Communities”, 2024, p.
11-12.

⁷ See Michael A Newton, Iraqi Special Tribunal, Max Planck Encyclopedia of Public International Law, 2010, available at: https://opil.ouplaw.com/display/10.1093/law:epil/9780199231690/law-9780199231690-e1703#

⁸ See UN Security Council Resolution 2379 (2017), available at: https://docs.un.org/en/S/RES/2379(2017)

⁹ See UNITAD´s Terms of Reference, 2018, available at: https://documents.un.org/doc/undoc/gen/n18/042/14/pdf/n1804214.pdf?_gl=1*eil4bp*_ga*MTU5ODQyODc3NS4xNzU2OTc4MjI2*_ga_TK9BQL5X7Z*czE3NTg4MDg0MDIkbzckZzEkdDE3NTg4MDg0MTMkajQ5JGwwJGgw

¹⁰ Iraqi Federal Judiciary reportedly prosecuted approximately 70,000 cases since 2012 under the broad provisions of Iraq’s
Anti-Terrorism law of 2005, see C4JR, More than “Ink on Paper”: Taking Stock two Years After the Adoption of the Yazidi
[Female] Survivors Law, 2023, p.26, available at:
https://c4jr.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/More-than-Ink-on-Paper-two-years-after-YSL-adoption-report-FIN-ENG.pdf;
On the alignment of counter-terrorism proceedings with fair trial guarantees see UNAMI, OHCHR, Human Rights in the
Administration of Justice in Iraq: Trials under the anti-terrorism laws and implications for justice, accountability and social
cohesion in the aftermath of ISIL, January 2020. Available at: https://www.ohchr.org/sites/default/files/Documents/Countries/IQ/UNAMI_Report_HRAdministrationJustice_Iraq_28January2020.pdf also see Human Rights Watch,“Flawed Justice: Accountability for ISIS Crimes in Iraq.” Human Rights Watch, 2017.https://www.hrw.org/sites/default/files/report_pdf/iraq1217web.pdf

¹¹ See C4JR Position Paper on an ISIL Accountability Mechanism in Iraq, August 2022, available at:https://c4jr.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Final-position-paper-ISIL-mechanism-ENG_FINAL_Hyperlinks-1.pdf

¹² See Bojan Gavrilovic, Navigating the Accountability Maze in post UNITAD Iraq, 2025, available at:https://www.justiceinfo.net/en/140373-navigating-accountability-maze-post-unitad-iraq.html

¹³ Such an approach was advocated by the C4JR and its members as a response to the abrupt closure of UNITAD in Iraq. See
Iraqi Civil Society and Survivor Networks Position on the Request of Iraq to Terminate UNITAD’s Mandate in September 2024,
available at: https://c4jr.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/C4JR-report_ENG.pdf

¹⁴ This draft law, published in June 2020, was a product of extensive consultations among Iraqi civil society and experts, envisaged
reparations for all survivors of CRSV, irrespective of their ethnic or religious affiliation or who the perpetrator is. It also envisaged
reparations for children born of CRSV, available at:https://c4jr.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/C4JR-DRAFT-CRSV-REPARATION-LAW-final-version-english-with-logo.pdf

¹⁵ These recommendations, based on best international practices on implementation of administrative reparation programs, were
presented to the Iraqi Council of Ministers in 2021, available at:
https://c4jr.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/C4JR-Rec-to-CoM-ENG.pdf

¹⁶ To that end Jiyan Foundation through C4JR to date issued three annual More than “Ink on Paper” (the term “ink on paper”
refers to YSL and was used by some survivors to express their doubts about the government’s commitment to implementing the
reparations promised in the legislation) monitoring reports, 11 Newsletters and 7 podcast episodes tracking successes and
challenges related to the YSL implementation, these documents are available via https://c4jr.org/

¹⁷ To address these challenges Jiyan Foundation and C4JR, in co-creation with survivors, developed Internal Guidelines on Ethical
Engagement with Survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, Media Checklist and a Toolkit for Ethical Engagement with
Survivors. This toolkit, which expands on C4JR’s Internal Guidelines and Checklist, was meticulously developed with input from
survivors and experts, and sets a new standard for trauma-informed and survivor-centered engagement practices, aiming to
empower survivors, ensuring that their stories are shared with dignity, respect, and sensitivity, available at:https://c4jr.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Toolkit-for-Ethical-Engagement-with-Survivors_English.pdf

¹⁸ For an overview of concrete measures designed to ensure meaningful participation of survivors in TJ responses to large scale
human rights abuses see Fiona McKay, Guidelines for Victim Participation in Justice Processes, February 2025, available at:https://www.impunitywatch.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/INOVAS-Guidelines-English-FINAL-1.pdf

¹⁹ Multiple militias or so-called “special armies” (Popular army, Jerusalem army, Special Republican Guard etc) were set up already
during the Ba’ath party era to reduce the influence of the regular army and safeguard the regime, see Joseph Sassoon, Saddam
Hussein’s Ba’th Party : inside an authoritarian regime, Cambridge University Press, 2012, p. 145-152.

²⁰ See Mohammad Salami, The Role of Militias in Iraq: Evaluating their Impact and Strategies for Mitigation, 2024, available at:https://eismena.com/en/article/the-role-of-militias-in-iraq-evaluating-their-impact-and-strategies-for-mitigation-2024-02-21

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Jiyan Foundation Hosts Panel Exchange on Rehabilitation and Rights of Male Survivors of ISIL Crimes

Delman — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 13:51:26 +0000

Baghdad, 15 September 2025 – The Jiyan Foundation for Human Rights, in partnership with the Iraqi High Commission for Human Rights and with support from the German Federal Foreign Office, hosted a panel exchange titled, “Strengthening Iraq’s Legal Framework to Support Children Associated with Armed Conflict: Realising the Right to Rehabilitation for Male Survivors of ISIL Crimes.” The event brought together survivors, civil society representatives, and government officials at the Commission’s headquarters in Baghdad.

Salah Ahmad, president of the Jiyan Foundation, opened the session, affirming the organisation’s commitment to equitable support for all survivors:

“Every survivor, regardless of age or gender, deserves access to justice, healing, and reintegration. It is our shared responsibility to provide holistic support and ensure that no one falls behind on the path to recovery.”

Dr Saad Al-Abdali, advisor to the Iraqi High Commission for Human Rights, underlined “the Iraqi government’s commitment to ensuring justice and rehabilitation for survivors, and that the Commission stands with survivors and the organisations supporting them.”

The panel exchange focused on the holistic rehabilitation of male survivors, addressing psychosocial support, education, economic empowerment, and the implementation of reparations under Iraq’s Yazidi Survivors Law. Discussions highlighted persistent challenges, including low school reintegration rates, fragmented psychosocial services, and barriers to accessing financial and land entitlements.

Jiyan Foundation presented findings from its ongoing project, “Mental Reconstruction After War in Northern Iraq”, which promotes resilience and social reintegration for children and youth formerly associated with armed groups. Developed in collaboration with local NGOs and survivor advocacy groups, such as Hope Givers, the project recommends sustainable, survivor-centered rehabilitation systems that combine central hubs with satellite centers to provide integrated services.

Representatives from the Iraqi High Commission for Human Rights stressed the importance of coordinated government and civil society efforts to address the specific needs of male survivors. Survivors actively participated, sharing insights on practical measures to improve access to education, psychosocial care, and economic opportunities.

The event concluded with the presentation of the Shield of Creativity and Excellence to the Iraqi High Commission for Human Rights, which recognised its role in supporting survivors’ rehabilitation and advancing human rights in Iraq.

For nearly two decades, the Jiyan Foundation has provided mental health care, legal support, and advocacy for survivors of human rights violations, genocide, and terrorism in Iraq and Syria. With the continued support of the German Federal Foreign Office, Jiyan is strengthening its programs to ensure comprehensive rehabilitation and empowerment for survivors of ISIL and other conflicts.

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World Humanitarian Day 2025: Protect the Protectors, Fund the Response

Delman — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 09:47:45 +0000

Erbil, Kurdistan Region of Iraq—August 19, 2025.

Today, on World Humanitarian Day, the Jiyan Foundation joins the global community in honouring humanitarian workers who risk—and too often lose—their lives while serving others.

The humanitarian crisis is worsening. More than 380 aid workers lost their lives in 2024, marking the highest recorded number. At the same time, global humanitarian funding has plummeted, with only about 10–11% of needs met so far in 2025, leaving millions without life-saving assistance.

This crisis is not only about numbers—it is about people. Families struggle to find shelter. Children lack access to food and healthcare. Communities are left unprotected as international humanitarian law is increasingly ignored.

Humanitarian work today is carried out under immense risk. Attacks target aid workers, and funding is vanishing just when they need it most. If we do not protect those who protect others, and if we fail to fund their efforts, we betray our shared humanity.”
Salah Ahmad- Chairman

At Jiyan Foundation, we stand in solidarity with humanitarian workers everywhere—particularly our local colleagues in Iraq and Syria—who persist despite unimaginable challenges.

Support Humanitarian Work

Every day, Jiyan Foundation supports displaced families, survivors of violence, and communities in crisis across Iraq and Syria. But we cannot do it without you.

Your donation helps provide:
• Emergency food and hygiene kits
• Trauma care and medical support
• Protection and dignity for families in need

This World Humanitarian Day, we urge governments, donors, and the public to:

Protect humanitarian workers and ensure accountability for attacks.
Increase funding for life-saving aid.
Defend international humanitarian law as a shield for civilians in conflict.

Together, we can safeguard the protectors and restore hope to those in need.

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More Than “Ink on Paper”: Four Years Since the Adoption of the Yazidi Survivors Law

Delman — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 14:05:48 +0000

March 1st 2025 marks four years since the Iraqi parliament passed the Yazidi Female Survivors Law (YSL) establishing an administrative reparation programme aimed at giving effect to survivors’ right to reparation. The law provides access to a variety of rights and benefits to harmed Yazidi, Turkmen, Christian, and Shabak women and girls and Yazidi boys kidnapped by ISIL as well as women and men from indicated components who survived mass killings carried out by ISIL.

The YSL mandates several critical reparative measures such as financial support; medical and psychological care; the provision of land, housing, education, and employment. Moreover, it officially recognizes that ISIL committed genocide and crimes against humanity, mandates memorialization, the search for those still in captivity, the opening of mass graves, identification of remains and their return to the families and calls Iraqi institutions to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. The associated bylaws further extend these obligations, including developing specialized curricula on ISIL conflict to promote peaceful coexistence and renunciation of violence.

The Coalition for Just Reparations (C4JR) and the Jiyan Foundation for Human Rights are publishing the third More than “Ink on Paper” annual report evaluating the current stage of YSL implementation. We do this in good faith and with a view to ensuring that the YSL realizes its full potential and doesn’t remain, as some survivors had put it, merely ink on paper.

Four years on from its passing, we can celebrate the achievements of the YSL implementation, but also remain steadfast in pointing out its shortcomings. Most importantly, more should be done to ensure transparency around YSL eligibility parameters and improve access to the application and appeals process. Similarly, greater effort is needed to establish a sustainable state sponsored system for the provision of holistic rehabilitation services—that includes specialist psychological, medical, social, educational, vocational, and legal rehabilitation components—and to investigate and prosecute international crimes committed by ISIL. Finally, the search for more than 2,600 missing individuals remains a top priority for survivors, their families and communities.

With ongoing attempts to disrupt the international human rights and justice frameworks, ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, Democratic Republic of the Congo and elsewhere, as well as the regime change in Syria in mind, we must remind the international community, governments and relevant actors of all political colours, time and again, of the critical importance of reparations! Namely, reparations are the only transitional justice measure capable of, if properly implemented, directly facilitating survivors’ ability to repair their lives and realize their life plans. Timely access to comprehensive reparations can also alter the migration patterns in that flight will not be seen by survivors as their “best chance” in the struggle for self-determination and living a life with dignity. The YSL can, if properly implemented, serve as a roadmap or a gold standard that can be replicated in other post-conflict societies. Finally, instead of (only) building up military capacities’, states should prioritize investing in reparations, as the dividend of such investment will be peace.

Sincerely

Dr. Bojan Gavrilovic

Dr. Bojan Gavrilovic, an international human rights lawyer based in Berlin, is a Head of Program for Rights and Justice at the Jiyan Foundation for Human Rights, where he focuses on reparations for survivors of atrocity crimes.

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A New Beginning for Syria: Towards a Future Free of Violence and Injustice

Delman — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 11:35:26 +0000

December 20, 2024 Erbil – With the fall of the regime in Syria on December 8, 2024, the country is poised to enter a new phase, bringing immense opportunities and significant challenges. The Syrian people from all sects and groups have endured decades of violence and injustice. Today, they have the chance to achieve meaningful change and build a brighter future.

At this historic moment, the Syrian people must strive for peaceful coexistence and social justice. Respecting the rights of minorities and ensuring their fair representation in government and society are essential steps toward building a nation rooted in respect and equality. We encourage the Syrian people to promote long-term peace between its different communities through equal treatment of languages and faiths, and the recognition of local autonomy in a federal system.

Reports indicate that minority groups in Syria continue to face significant challenges, including forced displacement and religious discrimination. The international community must take urgent action to protect these vulnerable populations and ensure their safety and well-being.

"After enduring more than a decade of brutal conflict, Syria now stands at a defining crossroads. This historic moment presents an unparalleled opportunity to construct a democratic future and nurture peaceful coexistence among its diverse population. The Syrian people must seize this chance to establish a system that safeguards the rights of all ethnic and religious communities.
"The atrocities committed in Syrian prisons—reminiscent of widespread and systematic torture suffered by Iraqis under the Saddam regime—highlight the critical need for justice and accountability. Jiyan Foundation’s experience has shown us that survivors of such trauma also require immediate and holistic rehabilitation including psychological support to rebuild their lives."
Salah Ahmad- Chairman

To achieve lasting peace and reconciliation, holding those responsible for core international crimes accountable is essential. Establishing an independent and impartial judiciary will be crucial in delivering justice to victims and deterring future atrocities.

As Syria embarks on its journey towards reconstruction and recovery, it will require significant international support. We urge the global community to provide humanitarian aid, financial assistance, and technical expertise to help rebuild Syria’s infrastructure and institutions.

Jiyan Foundation reaffirms its commitment to expanding its work and services beyond Qamishlo to reach more Syrian people. Our focus will remain on providing essential psychological support, humanitarian aid, and fostering values of coexistence and justice.

"Rebuilding Syria will undoubtedly be a formidable challenge, but with unity and resilience, we can achieve a democratic renaissance. We call on the global community to support our reconstruction efforts and address urgent humanitarian needs. Our ultimate vision is for Syria to emerge as a free and democratic state, where every citizen is guaranteed basic human rights including freedom of expression and the fundamental right to live with dignity.
"This is a journey of hope and transformation. Together, let us take the necessary steps today to ensure a brighter future for future generations."
Azad Hasou- Qamishlo Branch Manager

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Advancing Mental Health Support in Kurdistan Region: A Successful Conference on Providers’ Perspectives

Delman — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 13:15:00 +0000

The Jiyan Foundation for Human Rights recently hosted a pivotal conference, “Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq—The Providers’ Perspective,” held on December 15-16, 2024, in Erbil. This event had a big impact because it talked about important problems that mental health support in the KRI faces, such as limited access to good therapy services, strict laws for psychologists, and ongoing social stigma around mental health.

Recognising the documented need for improved mental health care in the KRI, this conference fostered collaboration and facilitated meaningful dialogue among researchers, NGOs, government representatives, and academics to explore solutions and pave the way for a stronger mental health infrastructure.

A multifaceted approach to addressing key challenges

Over two productive days, the conference explored several key areas:

Examining the Current State of MHPSS Research in KRI: The conference presented a comprehensive overview of MHPSS research conducted in the KRI over the past decade. It also assessed the effectiveness of the Jiyan Foundation’s therapeutic interventions and examined the professional trajectories of psychologists in the region.

Highlighting the Experiences of Local NGOs: Representatives from local NGOs providing MHPSS services shared invaluable insights from their frontline experiences— from establishing clinics to delivering essential services. This provided crucial perspectives on the practical challenges and successes of providing mental health care in the KRI.

Analysing the legal and institutional framework: A critical examination of the current legal and institutional landscape took place, focusing on identifying necessary adaptations to support a thriving psychological workforce. This discussion aimed to inform policy changes that will benefit providers and those seeking mental health support.

Introducing the Vision of the Jiyan Institute for Mental Health: A key highlight of the conference was the presentation of the vision and curriculum of the proposed MA program at Charmo University in Chamchamal. This initiative, spearheaded by the Jiyan Institute for Mental Health, aims to significantly enhance the educational landscape in the KRI and strengthen the university’s international academic standing.

Conference Agenda:

Sunday, December 15, 2024:

9:00 AM–12:30 PM: Panel 1—Studies on Providing MHPSS in KRI (Speaker: International academic researcher in MHPSS)

12:30 PM–1:30 PM: Lunch

1:30 PM–5:00 PM: Panel 2—Reports from the Field: NGOs Offering Psychotherapy in KRI (Speakers: Representatives from local NGOs)

Monday, December 16, 2024:

9:00 AM–12:30 PM: Panel 3—Legal Situation for Psychologists and Psychotherapy in KRI (Speakers: Representatives from ministries and other institutions)

12:30 PM–1:30 PM: Lunch

1:30 PM–5:00 PM: Panel 4—Presentation of the Planned Jiyan Institute for Mental Health at Charmo University (Speakers: Representatives from Charmo University and Jiyan Foundation)

This conference represented a significant stride towards strengthening mental health support in the KRI. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the Jiyan Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to building a more robust and accessible mental health system for all. This event underscored our active role in the mental health field and our dedication to improving mental health services in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. We gratefully acknowledge the Else Kröner-Fresenius-Stiftung for their generous support, which was essential to the success of this important initiative.

"We are happy and proud that so many outstanding experts on MHPSS from all kinds of institutions, from government to NGOs to academia etc., gathered for the first time in history to discuss the issues at hand to such an extent. The conference can be a real kick-off to elevate psychotherapy in KRI to the next level!”
Dr. Markus Wachowski- Head of Capacity Building

Learn more about our programs for Capacity Building

Gallery

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Jiyan and Human Rights

Pauline Marsden — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 09:55:34 +0000

We are specialists in psychotherapy. What does this have to do with human rights?

Every person has a right to enjoy “the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health” (UN Social Covenant, Article 12).

Mental health is a human right!

Not every state is able to help its citizens achieve this maximum level of health. Especially in countries where past conflicts and terror have traumatized many people, there is a lack of care options for psychotherapy.

The Jiyan Foundation was established in 2005 to fill this gap and to provide care for psychologically distressed survivors and bereaved families of victims of human rights violations in Iraq and Syria.

A lot has happened since then!

We use the language of human rights to create structural changes in Iraqi society that at least make a relapse into conflict less likely.

FROM A HEALTH FACILITY TO A HUMAN RIGHTS NGO

As we know that justice plays a major role in dealing with trauma, we have taken up legal counselling for survivors. In combination with therapeutic and social service, this is gladly accepted by those seeking advice. All of this take place after a human rights violation has been experienced, i.e. reparatively.

In addition, we also want to address the causes of violence in order to be able to work comprehensively for the people of Iraq in the long term. We invest in peace, justice and human rights education and have thus expanded our work to include future-oriented and preventative tasks.

THE RIGHT TO SECURITY

Domestic violence, a major problem in many parts of the world, can also be understood as a human rights violation, as “everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person”*.

OUR PREVENTIVE APPROACH: Our education and sensitization events at schools and camps are aimed at the human right to security (and also education). Children learn about their basic human rights, because only those who are informed about their rights can recognize when they are being violated. We inform children how they can protect themselves and how to find help if they are confronted with violence or sexual assault.

In our family counselling, family therapy, and social services, we assist affected families to leave violence behind them.

* Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Article 3

THE RIGHT TO EDUCATION

This ethnically and religiously diverse country can look back on a violent history.

Growing up in an environment characterized by mistrust, regular and open exchange between young people from different cultures or with different religious beliefs is rare despite physical proximity. The risk of falling back into old conflicts due to this reservation and distance is increasing.

To counteract these tendencies, the right to education explicitly states that education must “promote understanding, tolerance and friendship among all nations and all racial, ethnic or religious groups (…)”**.

OUR PREVENTIVE APPROACH: we are committed to peaceful coexistence between different ethnic groups and religions through education and communication. We organize dialogue events in which we bring together interreligious and interethnic groups to promote tolerance, understanding and respect. Visits to religious sites offer participants the opportunity to learn about the traditions and beliefs of others.

** UN Social Covenant, Article 13

THE RIGHT TO REPARATION

Ten years ago, the so-called IS committed, among other things, the human rights violation of slavery against Yazidi and other women and girls, because “No one shall be held in slavery or servitude (…)”***. All victims of serious human rights violations have the right to full rehabilitation, which should “include medical and psychological care as well as legal and social services”****.

In reality, it is often difficult for affected survivors to exercise this right, as there is a lack of access to information, counseling and assistance.

OUR REPARATIVE APPROACH: This is why we support IS survivors in claiming these rights. Together with other NGOs, we work as a link between the survivors and the government. In this way, we achieve greater weight in negotiations and create space for traumatized people to express their needs and assert their rights.

***Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 4

****UN General Assembly, Resolution 60/147, IX Article 21

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