It takes time to heal wounds and restore trust in people after war. That is why Mission East’s civic centers in Iraq are so important. Because here, victims of violence and rape can get help and regain a sense of normality, says head of programmes, Sana Basim.
War always affects civilians. Women and children are particularly vulnerable. When values disintegrate, the outrage in society increases and it takes a long time to restore peace and order in post conflict and protracted crises.
This is also the case in Iraq after decades of wars and unrest and the terror of ISIS in recent years.
Therefore, security is a high priority for Mission East in Iraq. Women and children who have been beaten, raped and tortured need help immediately. And there is a need to prevent something similar from happening again. Entire communities must be able to return to as normal an everyday life as possible.
