Amid war on IS, Iraq’s widows and orphans face neglect

A recent survey shows that the number of widows and orphans is on the rise in Iraq, while the government fails to provide support for them.
Iraqi children orphans draw at The Iraqi Safe House for Creativity in Baghdad, November 20, 2015. Picture taken November 20 2015. REUTERS/Ahmed Saad - RTX1WUND
Iraqi orphans watch as one child draws a picture at the Iraqi Safe House for Creativity in Baghdad, Nov. 20, 2015. - REUTERS/Ahmed Saad
Omer Iamge BW.jpg
Omar al-Jaffal
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BAGHDAD — The war and the consequent void of security in Iraq have left a lasting impact on Iraqi society. A recent survey conducted by the Ministry of Planning and Development about women and children, specifically widows and orphans, reflected this reality.

According to the survey, “The number of orphans aged 17 at most and registered at the Ministry of Planning and Development reached 600,000, while the number of widows reached 850,000.”

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