The Jiyan Foundation for Human Rights recently hosted a pivotal conference, “Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq—The Providers’ Perspective,” held on December 15-16, 2024, in Erbil. This event had a big impact because it talked about important problems that mental health support in the KRI faces, such as limited access to good therapy services, strict laws for psychologists, and ongoing social stigma around mental health.
Recognising the documented need for improved mental health care in the KRI, this conference fostered collaboration and facilitated meaningful dialogue among researchers, NGOs, government representatives, and academics to explore solutions and pave the way for a stronger mental health infrastructure.
A multifaceted approach to addressing key challenges
Over two productive days, the conference explored several key areas:
Examining the Current State of MHPSS Research in KRI: The conference presented a comprehensive overview of MHPSS research conducted in the KRI over the past decade. It also assessed the effectiveness of the Jiyan Foundation’s therapeutic interventions and examined the professional trajectories of psychologists in the region.
Highlighting the Experiences of Local NGOs: Representatives from local NGOs providing MHPSS services shared invaluable insights from their frontline experiences— from establishing clinics to delivering essential services. This provided crucial perspectives on the practical challenges and successes of providing mental health care in the KRI.
Analysing the legal and institutional framework: A critical examination of the current legal and institutional landscape took place, focusing on identifying necessary adaptations to support a thriving psychological workforce. This discussion aimed to inform policy changes that will benefit providers and those seeking mental health support.
Introducing the Vision of the Jiyan Institute for Mental Health: A key highlight of the conference was the presentation of the vision and curriculum of the proposed MA program at Charmo University in Chamchamal. This initiative, spearheaded by the Jiyan Institute for Mental Health, aims to significantly enhance the educational landscape in the KRI and strengthen the university’s international academic standing.
Conference Agenda:
Sunday, December 15, 2024:
9:00 AM–12:30 PM: Panel 1—Studies on Providing MHPSS in KRI (Speaker: International academic researcher in MHPSS)
12:30 PM–1:30 PM: Lunch
1:30 PM–5:00 PM: Panel 2—Reports from the Field: NGOs Offering Psychotherapy in KRI (Speakers: Representatives from local NGOs)
Monday, December 16, 2024:
9:00 AM–12:30 PM: Panel 3—Legal Situation for Psychologists and Psychotherapy in KRI (Speakers: Representatives from ministries and other institutions)
12:30 PM–1:30 PM: Lunch
1:30 PM–5:00 PM: Panel 4—Presentation of the Planned Jiyan Institute for Mental Health at Charmo University (Speakers: Representatives from Charmo University and Jiyan Foundation)
This conference represented a significant stride towards strengthening mental health support in the KRI. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the Jiyan Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to building a more robust and accessible mental health system for all. This event underscored our active role in the mental health field and our dedication to improving mental health services in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. We gratefully acknowledge the Else Kröner-Fresenius-Stiftung for their generous support, which was essential to the success of this important initiative.
"We are happy and proud that so many outstanding experts on MHPSS from all kinds of institutions, from government to NGOs to academia etc., gathered for the first time in history to discuss the issues at hand to such an extent. The conference can be a real kick-off to elevate psychotherapy in KRI to the next level!”
