Erbil, Iraq– The United Nations Development Programme Iraq (UNDP) in partnership with local organization Al-Tahreer Association for Development (TAD), has completed a project to support community resilience and Prevention of Violent Extremism across 30 villages in Ninewa. Many of the 30 villages, within the districts of Ba’aj and Hatra, were used as terrorist bases during conflict with ISIL (Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) and community members who fled the area have since returned. 

The project aims to enhance the role of community leaders to contribute to building sustainable peace and strengthening the participation of youth in advocating for community needs and the Prevention of Violent Extremism. Community Service Committee members were supported with capacity building and opportunities to network with local authorities to discuss challenges and needs, and 150 community peace initiatives were implemented. Through the project, over 60 schools were outfitted with school supplies and equipment, benefitting 25,000 students and 35 generators were delivered to the 30 villages, providing a source of electricity for 150,000 people.  

UNDP Iraq Resident Representative, Auke Lootsma, states, “UNDP’s interventions in the districts of Ba’aj and Hatra are intended to address the factors that undermine social cohesion. Poverty and lack of education can lead to marginalization and must be mitigated to prevent individuals from falling victim to violent extremism. We are grateful to the governments of Germany and the Netherlands for their support to bolster community resilience and Prevent Violent Extremism in these 30 villages.”  

During a ceremony in Tal Abta to commemorate the project, the Governor of Ninewa, Mr. Najm al-Jubouri, expressed his gratitude to UNDP, national partner TAD, and the donor community for supporting the pathway to stabilization and peaceful coexistence in Ninewa, assuring his commitment to continue local government efforts in responding to community needs. 

Across western Ninewa, UNDP has rehabilitated 41 schools, eight municipality buildings, two water treatment plants and created jobs for 3,862 people, to date. UNDP’s approach to stability in Iraq includes support to stabilization in liberated areas through rehabilitation of infrastructure and services, livelihoods creation, strengthening local government capacities, and social cohesion.  

Media contact:

Miriam Pineau, Communications Analyst |+964 790 110 1982