Shirzad Nayef
A difficult challenge has emerged in the reintegration and education of children who survived ISIS. Since the rise of the group, many of these children have endured catastrophic conditions that left a profound impact on their lives. Those who were around eight years old during ISIS’s dominance now face enormous difficulties in returning to a normal life, particularly in education. Growing up in an environment filled with violence and trauma has severely affected their chances of receiving a stable education.
Among the most affected are Yazidi children, who experienced the worst forms of persecution by ISIS. They endured abduction, and exposure to extreme physical and psychological violence, and were stripped of education—a fundamental right crucial to their development. Even after their liberation, Yazidi children struggle with significant obstacles in returning to school due to the deep psychological trauma they’ve suffered. Having spent their formative years in an abnormal and harsh environment, they now face further challenges in reintegrating into a traditional educational system.
Children born to ISIS members also encounter unique challenges. These children grew up amid conflict and often lack essential documents like national identity or citizenship papers, preventing them from accessing education and basic services. The stigma attached to being the children of ISIS fighters further complicates their social and psychological well-being, exacerbating the educational challenges they face.
Human rights organizations play a crucial role in aiding these children in their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The Jiyan Foundation for Human Rights has led efforts to support survivors of ISIS. From the onset of the crisis, the foundation has worked to provide education, psychological support, and healthcare to affected children. The Jiyan Foundation focuses on offering specialized educational programs tailored to these children’s needs, including psychological rehabilitation and alternative education for those unable to attend traditional schools.
The foundation recognizes education’s vital role in rehabilitating these children and redirecting them toward a better future. Their programs aim to replace the extremist and violent upbringing these children experienced with a constructive and civilized education that promotes values of tolerance and respect for human rights. Through comprehensive educational programs, the foundation aims to help these children reject extremist ideologies and develop into positive, active members of society. These efforts are essential in rebuilding their identities, helping them adapt to civilian life, and alleviating the lasting effects of their experiences under ISIS.
Despite the significant efforts of the Jiyan Foundation and other organizations, the challenges these children face remain immense. They require ongoing support that addresses their specific needs and improves their chances of returning to a normal life. This necessitates the concerted efforts of the international community and concerned nations to ensure these children’s rights and provide comprehensive solutions for their rehabilitation and education. Additionally, bureaucratic processes for obtaining necessary documents must be streamlined, and psychological and social support must be expanded to help them adjust to life after conflict.
The plight of children who survived ISIS remains a complex humanitarian issue requiring special attention and coordinated efforts from multiple stakeholders. With collective action and continued support, we can aspire to provide a better life and brighter future for these children, who have endured unimaginable suffering. Offering them education and the support they need is not only a moral imperative but also an investment in building more stable and prosperous societies for the future.
