UNICEF's Lifelong Impact: From Detention to Graduation

Dohuk, Iraq, 24 March 2024 - The Reformatory Directorate of Juveniles and Women in Duhok stands as both a challenge and an opportunity, witnessing since its establishment in 1998 the struggles of those entangled in the web of crime. Affiliated with the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, it accommodates juveniles in conflict with the law aged 11-18 and women, fostering rehabilitation through its departments— pre-trial, post-trial, and aftercare.

Within these walls, young lives intersect with the criminal justice system. A reality marked by stories of theft, violence, and other offenses. UNICEF's consistent presence since 2016 provides a glimmer of hope, creating pathways for rehabilitation and reintegration. The reformatory currently houses 12 convicts, with fluctuating numbers of people who have been arrested.

With financial support from the Government of the Netherlands, UNICEF has made significant efforts to improve the Juvenile Justice System, contributing to the enhancement of the capacity of Juvenile Police, Juvenile Courts, lawyers, and staff of Juvenile Reformatories, and supporting the reintegration process into society after release. This has resulted in many children in conflict with the law benefiting from non-custodial procedures, such as probation, subsequently reducing the number of children in detention.

With unwavering support from UNICEF and the dedicated efforts of the reformatory staff, the juvenile and women reformatory in Dohuk achieved a significant milestone on 25 January 2024. It proudly received the prestigious Mandela Prize for 2023 from the Justice Network for Prisoners, recognizing exceptional service and meticulous adherence to legal procedures for children in conflict with the law. This accolade underscores the reformatory's commitment to full compliance with international standards and its ranking as first in Iraq, reflecting the positive impact of its initiatives. 

Building Futures through Education, Vocational Skills, and Social Support

Majed Hussein is a devoted social worker who has been with the center for more than 23 years. Having served as the director for a few years, Majed, who has worn multiple hats within the reformatory, acknowledges the practical impact of UNICEF's involvement: "UNICEF has been here from early 2016 supporting various programmes, including vocational training in carpentry, computer skills, sewing, arts, and appliance repair, equipping individuals with skills for a fresh start upon release."

The reformatory's commitment to holistic development includes initiatives like expanding and improving schools for juveniles and a library provided by UNICEF. "This reformatory center has a school for classes from the 7th to the 9th grade. For later stages, we provide essential support to ensure the completion of studies through external exams,” Majed says.

"We've supported a student in completing school, providing necessary paperwork, and facilitating external exams. This year, the student not only passed the 12th grade with an impressive 72 per cent average, but also received assistance to apply to university for a bachelor’s degree,” he adds. Social workers, like Majed, extend efforts beyond academics, tirelessly preparing juveniles for reintegration.

Halat Abdulkarim, the current director, affirms UNICEF's influence. "UNICEF consistently provides vocational training and prioritizes psychosocial well-being through dedicated social workers,” she says. "UNICEF provides legal representation and support to the children in conflict with the law through dedicated lawyers and has been instrumental in establishing a nursery for the children who are accompanying their imprisoned mothers,” she elaborates.

Challenges persist in the reintegration process, however. "Finding jobs for released juveniles remains a challenge,” Halat explains. “We rely on UNICEF's continued support to work with the Government to find solutions and address these gaps, ensuring a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy.”