Visible wounds, invisible rights: Mental health and psychosocial support for male Yazidi former child soldiers in northern Iraq

Abstract In 2014, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria targeted the Yazidi ethno-religious minority in Sinjar, northern Iraq, abducting Yazidi boys aged 8 to 14 who endured violence, family separation and significant trauma exposure. Upon return, these children needed mental health care. This study investigates the availability of mental health services for male Yazidi former CAAFAGs (children associated with armed forces and armed groups) and discusses their rights under international legal frameworks. The study used a convergent mixed-methods design involving male Yazidi former CAAFAGs and mental health providers in the Sinjar district and the Duhok governorate. Quantitative data were collected through a descriptive survey of thirty CAAFAGs and ten providers. Qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews with ten CAAFAGs and ten providers expanded on these findings, and the results were integrated into a joint display for interpretation. Among the thirty CAAFAGs, 70% had not received any mental health care since their captivity. After captivity, 33% wanted (personal desire) mental health care; of those who wanted care, 80% received services through non-governmental organizations (NGOs). In contrast to this “personal desire” for care, 96.7% of male Yazidi former CAAFAGs acknowledged that they are in need of mental health care, yet only one is currently seeking it. Qualitative data revealed a gap in mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) services specifically for male CAAFAGs, as NGOs focused more on female survivors. It also identified financial, personnel and logistical challenges for NGOs, as well as discrepancies between CAAFAGs and providers regarding perceived willingness to receive mental health care. CAAFAGs and providers recognize an urgent need for tailored, trauma-informed MHPSS and reintegration services for male Yazidi former CAAFAGs. While NGOs play an essential role in delivering mental health care, their focus is primarily on female survivors, leaving a gap in support for male CAAFAGs. International legal frameworks protecting child victims’ rights remain inadequately respected in practice. Addressing these gaps is crucial for CAAFAGs’ successful reintegration and rehabilitation.