Drivers of conflict and community tensions in post-war Iraq

CONTEXT

Five years after the liberation of its territories from the Islamic State (IS) occupation, Iraq faces an uncertain future. The security situation in the country remains volatile, with 2.5 million people are still in need of humanitarian assistance, including 1.2 million women and girls¹. At the end of 2022, ethno-sectarian tensions were on the rise, while the military interventions of Turkish and Iranian armed forces further destabilized bordering regions, especially in Northern governorates of Iraq. The proliferation of armed actors, including Popular Mobilization Forces, active remnants of IS and tribal armed actors, continue to entrench local conflict, divisions and tensions between communities.

To better understand drivers of needs and instability in Northern Iraq, Action Against Hunger and Englund Consulting examined conflict factors and mitigation measures in five areas of Ninawa governorate, in Northern Iraq (Mosul, Sinjar, Ba’aj, Hatra and Tel Afar) in December 2022. Based on group discussions, the analysis showed common social cohesion and conflict drivers between communities, while also highlighting notable differences from one district to another.

ASSESSMENT FINDINGS

• Corruption and nepotism in government are still pervasive and result in community distrust of many political or governmental actors. Still, and often despite unequal distribution, community members often see public services as a way to bring different groups together – through education, for example.
• Gender-based violence and discrimination concerns are widespread in Northern Iraq. Women experience domestic violence, barriers to access essential service access, restrictions on their freedom of movement, absence of economic control and forced marriage.
• Tensions across sectarian, tribal, and ethnic lines remain, though cohesion varies at community levels. Fears of violence based on religious affiliation continue, while cleavages over perceived allegiance to the Islamic State also undermine cohesion.
• Solidarity through adversity is also a common theme: war, displacement, and hardship have created bonds that have built shared rapprochement between people. Tribal reconciliation and common clan traditions also help to bridge divides where the state is absent or unable to assist.
• Culinary traditions, sports, religious gatherings, and local festivals provide powerful unity symbols.

Based on the findings of the analysis, Action Against Hunger envisions a set of recommendations and mitigation measures for humanitarian actors. These should be used with local-specific guidance and the additional nuance provided throughout the rest of this report.

¹2022 Iraq Humanitarian Response Plan