Alarming rise in suicide rates across Iraq
Nineveh Province has emerged as the region with the highest number of reported cases, attributed to mounting psychological, social, and economic pressures.
Nov. 18, 2024
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Recent data reveals a concerning surge in suicide rates across Iraq, with monthly cases ranging from 55 to 70 individuals, according to official statistics.
Nineveh Province has emerged as the region with the highest number of reported cases, attributed to mounting psychological, social, and economic pressures.
The Nineveh Police Department has released statistics showing 74 suicide cases recorded in the province this year alone.
Nationwide, Iraq has documented 300 suicide cases in the first six months of 2024, following a troubling pattern from 2023, which saw 700 cases throughout the year.
While suicide rates vary significantly among provinces, Nineveh Police confirms their region maintains the highest incident rate in the country.
Officials attribute these deaths to a complex web of factors, including psychological distress, social pressures, and economic hardship.
A particularly disturbing trend has emerged with the formation of a group called 'al-Qurbanion,' whose members reportedly engage in random suicide pacts. Security forces have made several arrests related to this group's activities.
Read More: Emergence of 'Al-Qurbanion' group sparks concern over youth suicide by lottery in Iraq
Global Context
The World Health Organization reports that approximately 800,000 people die by suicide annually worldwide, making it the fourth leading cause of death globally. Most concerningly, the majority of suicide victims fall within the 10-29 age group.
The rising suicide rates in Iraq reflect the ongoing challenges faced by the country's population in the aftermath of decades of conflict, economic instability, and social upheaval.
Nineveh Province, which includes Mosul, continues to struggle with the lasting impacts of ISIS occupation and subsequent reconstruction efforts, potentially contributing to its elevated suicide statistics.
Mental health resources and support systems remain limited in many areas of Iraq, complicating efforts to address this growing crisis.
