UOD, June 22, 2026 | University Press Office (UNPO)

The University of Duhok (UOD), through the Center for Gender Equality Studies, in collaboration with the High Council of Women and Development of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), commemorated the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict at the UOD Conference Center under the theme:

“Remembering the Yazidi Genocide: From Acknowledgment to Recovery, Justice, and Sustainable Solutions.”

The event brought together government officials, academics, civil society representatives, and activists to reflect on the lasting impact of the Yazidi genocide and discuss pathways toward justice, healing, and survivor empowerment.

Among those attending were Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi, President of the University of Duhok; Dr. Khanzad Ahmad, Secretary-General of the High Council of Women and Development; Mr. Majid Sayid Salih, Deputy Governor of Duhok; Dr. Viyan Silevanai, Deputy Head of the KDP Organizing Office in Badinan; in addition to numerous government officials, academics, and representatives of civil society organizations.

From Remembrance to Sustainable Healing

In his opening remarks, Dr. Dawood Sulaiman Atrushi emphasized that the occasion serves not only as an international observance but also as an opportunity to remember one of the most painful chapters in the contemporary history of the Kurdistan Region.

“Today, we are gathered here not only to observe an international day but to reflect upon one of the most painful chapters in the contemporary history of our region.”

He highlighted the University of Duhok's role in supporting survivors and contributing to long-term recovery efforts through education, research, and specialized services.

The Establishment of the Institute of Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology (IPP)

During his address, the University President described the establishment of the Institute of Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology (IPP) as one of the most significant initiatives undertaken following the Yazidi genocide.

“One of the most important initiatives implemented following the Yazidi genocide was the establishment of the Institute of Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology (IPP) within the University of Duhok.”

Drawing on the university’s experience since 2014, Dr. Dawood noted that, following an initiative launched by His Excellency Mr. Nechirvan Barzani, then Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government and now President of the Kurdistan Region, more than 1,100 rescued Yazidi women and girls were sent to Germany to receive specialized psychological and physical treatment.

He explained that the profound need for sustainable local support and scientific expertise inspired the University of Duhok to establish the IPP, enabling survivors to access specialized psychological and trauma-related services within the Kurdistan Region. Through education, research, and professional training, the institute has since become a leading center for psychotrauma studies and mental health support.

Supporting Survivors Through Policy and Partnership

For her part, Dr. Khanzad Ahmad highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Kurdistan Regional Government, civil society organizations, international agencies, and survivor networks in building comprehensive legal, psychological, and economic support systems for survivors.

She described the Yazidi Survivors Law as a historic achievement that recognizes the rights of survivors and places responsibility for compensation and support on the state rather than on those who endured the atrocities.

Dr. Khanzad also reaffirmed the Kurdistan Regional Government's commitment to continuing efforts to determine the fate of the remaining missing and abducted individuals until every possible case is resolved.

Panel Discussion Explores Recovery and Resilience

Following the official speeches, participants attended a panel discussion titled “Recovery After Survival.”

The panel featured:

• Dr. Dlin Sardar Zuhdi, Director of the Center for Gender Equality Studies at the University of Duhok
• Mr. Saeed Jirdo Misto, Head of the High Committee of the Lalish Center
• Ms. Naveen Simoqi, Activist and Director of the Sun Threads (Tirejên Rojê) Organization

The speakers discussed psychological recovery, social reintegration, survivor empowerment, and the importance of preserving memory while building resilient communities.

UOD's Continuing Commitment

The event reaffirmed the University of Duhok’s commitment to advancing justice, healing, and social recovery through its academic institutions and research centers. Through initiatives such as the Institute of Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology (IPP) and the Center for Gender Equality Studies, the university continues to play an important role in addressing the consequences of conflict, supporting survivors, and contributing to a future founded on dignity, resilience, and human rights.

As the Kurdistan Region and the international community continue to confront the legacy of conflict-related sexual violence, the University of Duhok remains committed to fostering research, education, advocacy, and community engagement that support healing and sustainable development.

University Press Office, June 22, 2026
Reported by: Hussein Ismael Mohammed
Photography: Ali Habib Habib