The Gender and Security Dilemma of Al-Hol
Rooted in the aftermath of regional conflicts and sparked by the regional defeat of the Islamic State of Iran and Syria (ISIS), the Al-Hol refugee camp reflects the volatile nature of the Middle East. It emerged as a response to the immediate needs of Iraqi refugees but has since expanded to accommodate diverse populations, primarily women and children. Addressing the situation of the Al-Hol Refugee Camp is paramount, not only for humanitarian reasons but for regional stability and security. The plight of these displaced individuals requires urgent attention and concerted efforts from the international community, specifically through the United Nations and international humanitarian organizations. Prioritizing the needs of the residents and adopting a gender-sensitive approach can pave the way for solutions for the affected populations.
The Al-Hol camp originated in 1991 during the Gulf War to house Iraqis fleeing the conflict. Situated in northeastern Syria, the camp grew significantly after the Syrian Civil War began in 2011. By 2018, the number of residents increased from approximately 10,000 to almost 75,000. Following the defeat of ISIS in 2019, many members affiliated with the terrorist group ended up in Al-Hol. They had nowhere else to go, and the outdoor detention center became their new home. At its peak, more than 73,000 people of 60 different nationalities lived in Al-Hol, enduring a continual sense of statelessness throughout their lives at the camp. While refugee camps supposedly serve as zones of protection, Al-Hol simultaneously functions as a zone of conflict. Many view the camp as a prison rather than a safe haven.
The current state of Al-Hol reflects the enduring challenges faced by its residents as an extension of the conflict they are fleeing. The camp's population of 44,000 primarily comprises Iraqis and Syrians. The residents are predominantly women and children, with over half under eleven years old. Furthermore, the camp is still known for housing ISIS suspects and detaining family members of ISIS affiliates. Their home countries refuse to welcome them back, effectively penalizing them for their associations with ISIS and relinquishing any responsibility for their livelihood.
Amidst the backdrop of conflict and displacement, the conditions within the Al-Hol refugee camp paint a stark picture. Residents have limited access to basic necessities such as food, water, and healthcare. They sleep in makeshift tents, limiting privacy and security from more violent residents. The high influx of refugees and displaced persons makes for immense overcrowding. The conditions prevailing within Al-Hol are incredibly harsh for residents.
Crime is the leading cause of death in the camp because Al-Hol is notorious for high levels of violence and danger. Those loyal to ISIS carry out attacks and even murder other residents. ISIS also weaponizes religion as a terror tactic. Residents who do not abide by the religious dress codes risk being killed or assaulted. Those who believed they were escaping violence in their home countries have entered an equally perilous place. The endless cycle of violence makes it challenging to survive.
Within the confines of Al-Hol, a troubling landscape of radicalization and gendered vulnerabilities pervades, profoundly shaping gender and security dynamics in the camp. The presence of ISIS is widespread, contributing to the radicalization of members. Women and children are indoctrinated by ISIS ideologies, typically because the women are the mothers or wives of ISIS fighters who died or are in jail. ISIS members use these women and girls for recruitment and propaganda purposes. By exploiting the vulnerability of the residents facing displacement, trauma of conflict, and loss of family members, ISIS recruiters prey on women and children. ISIS offers their members financial compensation for joining their mission. This additional income can be life-changing for residents who are struggling to get food on their plate. Through direct contact with ISIS sympathizers, residents are exposed to extremist ideology, fostering a sense of allegiance to ISIS goals. Experts say Al-Hol is a “breeding ground” for those loyal to ISIS and future allegiances.
Gendered vulnerabilities of the camp present themselves through the women and children. There is a heightened risk of gender-based violence in the camp, such as sexual exploitation, domestic abuse, and forced marriage. Lack of security, overcrowding, and power dynamics with the low number of male residents contribute to gender inequalities. These factors contribute to the large amounts of sexual violence within the camp.
Among the gendered vulnerabilities of the women, the children of Al-Hol also face a particularly precarious situation shaped by numerous insecurities. Children born in Al-Hol or forced to accompany their parents share a common similarity–they did not choose this life. The fundamental rights of children in the camp are practically nonexistent, yet they make up 64 percent of Al-Hol’s population. They witness daily acts of violence, the imagery forever ingrained in their minds. Furthermore, these children are vulnerable to ISIS recruitment. Accustomed to these harsh conditions, this camp is all they know. Many experts warn that leaving these children in Al-Hol poses significant security risks. ISIS members recruit young boys in the camp to fight. Young and vulnerable, these minds are susceptible to many physical and psychological dangers, as well as ISIS indoctrination. Home countries should prioritize plans to reintegrate these children.
Any policy response must adopt a gender-sensitive approach, prioritizing the protection and empowerment of women and children while challenging the prevailing gender stereotypes. The urgency of the Al-Hol crisis calls for immediate action and cooperation from the entire international community. Enhanced support from international humanitarian agencies is essential to alleviate the suffering of those within the camp and facilitate their repatriation, reintegration, and rehabilitation back in their home countries. Policy recommendations should include measures to bolster humanitarian assistance, strengthen frameworks for repatriation and reintegration, and promote solutions that address the underlying drivers of conflict and extremism. By adopting a comprehensive approach that prioritizes human rights, security, and gender equality, we can work towards a more just future for Al-Hol residents and the broader region.
Author: Yuval Cohen
Managing Editor: Sebastian Reyes
Web Editor: Matthew MacKenzie
