Iraq Launches the First Guiding Manual for Mental Health Doctors and Psychologists on Working with Children in Post-Conflict Areas

Baghdad, 20 January 2026 – The Ministry of Planning of the Republic of Iraq, in collaboration with UNICEF, has officially launched Iraq’s first Guiding Manual for Mental Health Doctors and Psychologists on Working with Children in Post-Conflict Areas, marking a major step in the strengthening of the country’s child protection system.

The launch, held at the World Heart Hotel in Jadriyah, Baghdad, showcased the Iraqi government’s leadership in addressing the mental health and psychosocial needs of children, particularly those affected by conflict, displacement, and poverty. The meeting brought together high-level government representatives, representatives from embassies, development partners, and United Nations agencies.

Developed through a government-led, consultative process under the Ministry of Planning, the manual draws guidance from an inter-ministerial committee and UNICEF technical experts. It incorporated feedback from ministries, civil society, academics, service providers, and children through field testing in camps. This ensures the manual provides standardized, practical guidance for frontline providers of mental health and psychosocial support services for children and adolescents.

The manual will help social workers, including those working in the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, to implement a standardized minimum package of child protection services and case management nationwide.

Christian Skoog, UNICEF Representative in Iraq, said: “Supporting children’s mental health is both an urgent humanitarian need and an investment in Iraq’s recovery. This national manual demonstrated the government’s leadership and commitment to ensuring every child has access to care, protection, and support to heal, grow, and thrive.”

By integrating mental health and psychosocial support across health, education, and child protection sectors, the government is paving the way for resilient communities and a brighter future for children in Iraq. 

UNICEF will continue supporting the nationwide implementation of the manual to ensure all children exposed to adversity receive the care and support they deserve.