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1.1. Background
The MHPSS needs assessment was carried out in the Western Ninewa region of Iraq, covering the districts of Baji and Sinjar, and the sub-districts of Qairawan and Sinuni, to assess the challenges and requirements of internally displaced persons and returnees in this dynamic and complex geographical context. serves as an important study to consider. The region has a history of migration and conflict and has witnessed the severe effects of geopolitical forces and internal conflicts, resulting in the forced displacement of communities from various states.
In addition to the displacement in Bahji and Qairwan and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) crackdown and atrocities against Muslim Arabs, one of the most devastating events in the history of this displacement unfolded in parts of Sinjar and western Ninawa, including Sinuni, where the Yazidi community faced unprecedented persecution and displacement after a brutal ISIL attack in 2014 (Cetorelli et al., 2017). The ISIL onslaught specifically targeted Yazidis, resulting in mass killings, abductions, and forced conversions. Thousands of Yazidi families fled Sinjar and its subdistricts and villages to escape the atrocities and took refuge in nearby areas and temporary camps.
According to IOM's Data Tracking Matrix (DTM), between 2014 and 2023, there were more than 1 million IDPs in Duhok, most of whom were from West Ninawa. DTM data also shows that a small number of them reached Erbil and Sulaymaniyah governorates. Most of the Yazidis who fled the region first sought refuge in Mount Sinjar and then sought refuge in these governorates. The forced displacement of the Yazidi community in Sinjar and its sub-regions adds a new layer to the overall story of internal displacement in the Western Ninewa region, highlighting the unique challenges faced by various communities affected by ISIL's atrocities. This proves that tailored interventions to address the challenges are urgently needed. Understanding the unique experiences of displaced Yazidis in Sinjar and Sinuni provinces is essential to developing effective strategies for their reintegration into post-conflict societies.
In the West Ninawa region, the impact of displacement and conflict on the well-being of the population makes it imperative to conduct a MHPSS needs assessment. Previous studies have found that the complex experiences of internally displaced persons, especially the aftermath of targeted attacks, cause severe psychological distress and trauma (Rasheed et al., 2022; Rofo et al., 2023).
Understanding the mental health and psychosocial needs of displaced and returnee populations is essential to tailoring interventions to address the visible and invisible damage left by conflict. The assessment aims to recognize the intersectionality of factors such as gender and disability, and to highlight the challenges faced by individuals and communities.
By delving into the psychosocial context, this assessment seeks to identify not only immediate mental health and psychosocial needs, but also the underlying social and cultural dynamics that influence well-being. This understanding will inform the development of targeted and culturally sensitive MHPSS programs to promote resilience and support long-term recovery in the diverse communities of the West Ninawa region.
1.2. Purpose of needs assessment
This assessment comprehensively assesses the current situation faced by displaced and returnee populations in Western Ninawa in terms of mental health and psychosocial well-being, as well as other important aspects including education, employment, livelihoods, health care, and safety. The purpose is to understand.
By focusing on these specific neighborhoods, we capture the unique experiences and needs of the diverse communities that live in the area and create informed and targeted solutions to address their immediate and long-term requirements. We aim to provide a nuanced basis for further intervention.
1.3. Scope and methodology
This needs assessment was designed to comprehensively assess the needs and challenges faced by internally displaced persons, returnees, and host communities in the Western Ninewa region of Iraq, with a particular focus on Baji, Qairawan, Sinjar, and Sinuni. Ta. The geographic scope was chosen to capture the unique experiences of the diverse communities affected by internal displacement and return stages within the region. This assessment takes into account the unique sociocultural, ethnic and religious identities that contribute to the region's rich diversity, and examines the factors that influence the mental health and psychosocial well-being of vulnerable people in the region. It aimed to provide a nuanced understanding of complex interactions.
To ensure a comprehensive and multifaceted analysis, a mixed methods approach was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Convenience sampling methods were adopted to reach a wide range of affected populations, including internally displaced persons, returnees, and host community members. Efforts were made to include diverse groups representing different ethnicities, religious identities, genders, educational levels, and individuals with disabilities.
A structured survey incorporating closed questions was developed to collect quantitative data on key indicators such as demographics, psychosocial well-being, livelihood, health, education, and shelter status. The survey was conducted among a representative sample of households across the target districts, with an emphasis on obtaining a balanced representation of different demographic groups.
In-depth interviews, FGDs, and key informant interviews were conducted to capture the lived experiences and perspectives of displaced people. This qualitative phase allowed us to explore deeper into individual stories, community dynamics, and specific challenges faced by different groups. Subsequent analysis focused on understanding the commonalities in the unique challenges faced by different gender groups, individuals with disabilities, different educational backgrounds, and diverse ethnic and religious communities.
