UNHCR's ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR ASSESSING THE ...

in the goals and tactics of the different groups forming the insurgency, the expulsion of the
MNF from Iraq and the undermining of the new political structures in the country are
evidently common objectives. There are reports that members of the insurgency have
infiltrated parts of the ISF and carried out attacks in this capacity. The insurgency is mainly
active in the “Sunni triangle”, as well as in mixed areas of the Governorates of Diyala,
Babel and Kirkuk.
Iraqi Security Forces and Shi’ite Militias
Much of the Shi’ite generated violence in Iraq has been attributed to two rival Shi’ite
militias, the Badr Organization and the Mehdi Army. Shi’ite militia members have
increasingly entered the ISF, such as the Facilities Protection Services (FPS) and the
Special Commando Units / Iraqi National Police, and have reportedly conducted
kidnappings, torture and summary executions of mainly Sunni Arabs. There have also been
increasing reports of abuse and torture of government-held detainees, especially in
detention facilities operated by the Ministry of Interior.
Criminal Groups
Criminal gangs have taken full advantage of the collapse of law and order in Iraq, engaging
in various illegal activities such as kidnappings and killings. These acts are often
influenced, if not directed, by those responsible for the sectarian or political violence that
surrounds them. For example, victims are often targeted because of their sect (e.g.,
kidnappings for sale to sectarian groups), (perceived) role in public life and/or perceived
lack of State or tribal protection. Gangs increasingly operate in collusion with, or as
members of, the ISF. Given this situation, a well-founded fear of harm based on one of the
grounds of the 1951 Convention will often be present.
Kurdish Armed Forces
The Kurdish parties and their armed forces (Peshmerga) have been blamed for acts of
violence committed in areas under their control against (perceived) political opponents,
(perceived) Islamists, and members of ethnic/religious minorities.
Family, Community, Tribe
Acts of violence, most notably “honour killings”, are frequently committed throughout the
country by members of the victim’s family, community or tribe.
2. Main Groups at Risk
Religious Groups
The sectarian violence in Iraq has placed both Muslims and non-Muslims at risk of harm.
With regard to Muslims, Sunni-Shi’ite violence is the most prevalent. Sunni armed groups
have targeted Shi’ite dominated ISF bases and recruitment centers, Shi’ite religious sites
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