PHASE ONE
Rejuvenating Cultural Heritage in Northern Iraq
Phase One Report
Executive Summary
Between 2014 and 2017, the Northern Iraq region endured immense turmoil as the Islamic State (IS) wreaked havoc, resulting in widespread displacement and loss of life. Minority groups, including Christians, Yezidis, Shabaks, Turkmen, and Kaka'i, were specifically targeted, facing atrocities such as executions, enslavement, and forced conversion. This phase of our study delves into the profound impact of the IS occupation on ethnic and religious minority communities in Ninewa province, with a focused examination on Hamdaniya, Tal Kayf, and Bashiqa. Our approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of cultural significance and agricultural practices, shedding light on the socio-cultural, agricultural, and economic ramifications of the conflict.
Key Insights:
Destruction of livelihoods: The IS occupation devastated traditional livelihoods reliant on farming and animal husbandry, severely affecting economic stability.
Cultural heritage loss: Historical, religious, and cultural sites were destroyed, leading to a profound sense of spiritual and communal detachment.
Landscape approach: We adopt a holistic perspective, recognizing the cultural significance of agrarian activities in fostering economic resilience, preserving cultural identity, and fostering a sense of community.
Diverse agricultural practices: Our analysis encompasses a wide array of agricultural activities, from market crop cultivation to livestock production, as well as the gathering of wild plants.
Preservation of cultural products: We highlight the local production of culturally significant goods such as olive oil, cheese, tahini, and locally milled bulgu, showcasing their importance in sustaining cultural heritage.
Unlock the Report:
Delve deeper into our findings and recommendations by downloading the full report. Gain valuable insights into the restoration of cultural traditions and the revitalization of agricultural landscapes in Northern Iraq.
Discover deeper insights into our discoveries and recommendations by accessing the complete Phase One report. Uncover invaluable knowledge on the revival of cultural customs and the rejuvenation of agricultural environments in Northern Iraq.
Phase Two places emphasis on the interconnections between cultural significance and agricultural settings, aiming to analyze the intricate social, cultural, agricultural, and economic impacts of the IS occupation on ethnic and religious minority communities in Ninawa province. This phase particularly concentrates on the districts of Hamdaniya and Tel Keyf, as well as the sub-district of Bashiqa.