August 14, 2017
In recent months, as we’ve watched the Iraqi army drive the Islamic State (ISIL) out of Mosul, many of us have wondered “what comes next for the people of Iraq?” Journalists and other observers have highlighted the challenges of rehabilitating indoctrinated youth, ensuring vengeance doesn’t interfere with justice, and determining how to best support those wounded by war and left behind.
This past Saturday, August 12, was the United Nations’ International Youth Day, and the theme of this year’s observance was “Youth Building Peace.” It caused me to reflect on Heartland’s efforts to protect and nurture children whose lives have been torn apart by war in Iraq.
Children in Mosul and northern Iraq who have spent the past few years under ISIL’s control have witnessed unspeakable violence. They’ve been forced from their homes. Many have been separated from their families and are living in temporary camps. Among the most vulnerable are children who were coerced or forced into fighting for the Islamic State. Some are as young as nine years of age. These children face a grim future: in ISIL-controlled areas, they are at risk of being killed in ongoing military operations, while in liberated parts of the country, they are at risk of revenge attacks by the local community.
Heartland Alliance International is coordinating with local hospitals, international relief organizations, UN agencies, and Iraqi security forces to identify unaccompanied children and direct them to medical attention, shelter, food, and clothing. Our social workers ensure that war-injured children are reunited with their families. Our legal teams help assure that children who were forced to join the Islamic State are protected under international law and are treated humanely.
We hope that in honor of International Youth Day, you’ll join us in supporting these children by donating to Heartland Alliance International.
The children of Iraq deserve the opportunity to grow up in a safe environment and contribute to building a peaceful future.
