Sema
The Institute of Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology at the University of Duhok has marked its 10th anniversary, celebrating a decade of providing psychological care and support to Ezidi survivors, both in the Kurdistan Region and abroad.
On Sunday, November 1, 2026, an official ceremony was held to mark the occasion, attended by Dilshad Shahab, spokesperson for the Kurdistan Region Presidency; a representative of the Ezidi Prince; Baba Sheikh; the head of the Lalish Cultural and Social Centre in Duhok; members of the institute’s board of directors; and a number of officials and distinguished guests.
During the ceremony, Dilshad Shahab read a message from Nechirvan Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Region, reaffirming his support for the rights of the Ezidi community.
Several speeches were also delivered by attendees, while the Duhok Art Troupe presented a musical performance as part of the celebrations.
Over the past decade, the Institute of Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology has provided significant services to the Ezidi community, particularly through psychological treatment and support for survivors of ISIS captivity, both inside Iraq and abroad. The institute operates three centres in Sinjar and displacement camps, providing psychological services to those in need.
The institute was established at the University of Duhok following the genocide committed against the Ezidis by ISIS terrorists, with support from the German government. Since its establishment, it has become a beacon of hope and a vital source of support for Ezidi survivors of ISIS atrocities.