The researchers also point out that terrorist group IS remained in power for two years after the attack, leaving people in Hawija with little or no access to medical help, clean water and electricity. They could hardly flee.
This has led to long-term effects, such as trauma, disabilities, economic damage due to the loss of the breadwinner, displacement, an increase in child labor and poor access to education, the study concludes.
The Netherlands has so far pledged 4.4 million euros in compensation, intended for reconstruction, but this has so far not led to concrete action. The Netherlands does not want to make individual compensation arrangements. Partly because of this, according to the researchers, most of the interviewees feel abandoned by The Hague.
In response to parliamentary questions from the SP, Defense Minister Ollongren wrote today that she, like her predecessor, realizes that the lack of individual compensation “is a difficult message” for victims and relatives. Nevertheless, the considerations not to proceed to individual compensation still apply.
Civilian suffering limited
The researchers from Utrecht University, PAX and Al-Ghad recommend, among other things, that the cabinet send representatives to Hawija to explain to the population and to convey apologies. In addition, recognition of the damage suffered by individual citizens is important, as is compensation.
Little has come of the promised compensation to Hawija, the mayor of the city told NOS last December:
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