Rehabilitation of the Agricultural Sector in Conflict-Affected Areas: The Case of the Yazidi Areas in Iraq After the ISIS Crisis

Abstract

The agricultural sector in Iraq, particularly in areas inhabited by social minorities such as the Yazidis, faces severe crises due to the destruction of infrastructure during the ISIS crisis. This crisis led to mass displacement, the collapse of agricultural production, and a significant decline in financial resources. Despite ongoing efforts to rebuild these regions, the most significant challenge remains how to ensure the sustainability of these efforts. The problem is not only about rehabilitating land and equipment but also about restoring social trust and rebuilding the community bonds that were severely impacted by displacement and persecution.
Previous writings often fail to address this crisis comprehensively because they focus only on technical or economic solutions, ignoring the critical social and psychological dimensions that play a central role in the success of rehabilitation. Therefore, this research seeks to answer a fundamental question: How can the agricultural sector in minority areas be rehabilitated post-conflict, and what are the key factors to ensure the sustainability of these efforts?
This research aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the rehabilitation of the agricultural sector in conflict-affected areas in northern Iraq, with a focus on Yazidi-inhabited regions. The research highlights the severe destruction of agricultural infrastructure and the impact of conflict on agricultural production. It is estimated that 67% of the agricultural infrastructure was destroyed during ISIS control, leading to a significant decline in agricultural output. The study uses a combination of field data analysis and literature review to propose holistic solutions, focusing on strategies that integrate social and psychological support with infrastructure reconstruction.
This research addresses the gap in studies that combine the social and technical aspects of reconstruction, offering a comprehensive model that focuses on rebuilding trust among farmers by providing training and psychological support alongside infrastructure repair. In conclusion, the recovery of agriculture in these areas can only be achieved through an integrated approach that considers social, psychological, and technical dimensions to ensure sustainable agricultural production, food security, and social stability.