Stanley Thomas Johnson Foundation

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Stanley Thomas Johnson Foundation

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RESPONDING TO SYRIA AND IRAQ WITH THE STANLEY THOMAS JOHNSON FOUNDATION

ENABLING RECOVERY AND RESILIENCE AMONG WOMEN SURVIVORS OF WAR IN IRAQ

Since 2014, Women for Women International has helped to train over 1,200 displaced Syrian, Iraqi and Yezidi women in Iraq, through a network of local partners.

In 2017, we were delighted to partner with the Stanley Thomas Johnson Foundation to expand our services for women survivors of the war in Iraq, and with their support begin directly delivering our tried and tested 12-month holistic social and economic empowerment programme for 300 women.

Women are learning a range of skills and new knowledge including sustainable income generation; health; decision-making and fostering connections with other women for solidarity and support.

Over the year, Syrian and Kurdish women have been coming together to develop an understanding of their legal and human rights, information about health, nutrition and hygiene, and vital vocational and business skills by which to sustain an income through entrepreneurship or employment.

Regular classes enable groups to form tight social circles of support, breaking the isolation created by conflict and insecurity, and promoting cohesion and trust between women from refugee and host communities.

The Iraq programme also provides counselling to help women overcome trauma, deal with stress, and build confidence and self-esteem – the first step to rebuilding their lives.

Amina, a young woman currently on the programme, told her trainers that before enrolling she didn't often speak to anyone, but that participating and working closely with other women had enabled her to start expressing herself. 

I have already learned more than I could ever have dreamt of, I wish to learn more.

Amina, programme participant in Iraq.

Our work in Iraq

In response to the ongoing crisis in the region, Women for Women International is supporting Syrian refugees and displaced Iraqi and Yezidi women.