Survey paints a devastating portrait of life in Iraq

A new national survey paints a devastating portrait of life in Iraq: Widespread violence, torn lives, displaced families, emotional damage, collapsing services, an ever-starker sectarian chasm – and a draining away of the underlying optimism that once prevailed.

STRIFE and STRESS – Such conditions create a tremendous emotional burden. Anywhere from 72 to 82 percent of Iraqis report anger about what’s happening in their country, depression, trouble sleeping and difficulty concentrating on their usual activities

– all potential indicators of traumatic stress.

Violence is the cause, its reach vast. Eighty percent of Iraqis report attacks nearby – car bombs, snipers, kidnappings, armed forces fighting each other or abusing civilians. It’s worst by far in the capital, Baghdad, but by no means confined there.

The personal toll is enormous. More than half of Iraqis, 53 percent, have a close friend or a relative who’s been hurt or killed in the current violence.

One in six says someone in their own household has been harmed. Eighty-six percent worry about a loved one being hurt; two-thirds worry deeply. Huge numbers limit their daily activities to minimize risk. Seven in 10 report multiple signs of traumatic stress.

Methodology: The poll was conducted by D3 Systems for the BBC, ABC News, ARD German TV and USA Today. More than 2,000 people were questioned in more than 450 neighbourhoods and villages across all 18 provinces of Iraq between 25 February and 5 March 2007. The margin of error is + or - 2.5%.

- The full (pdf file) can be downloaded here

- Article: Pessimism 'growing among Iraqis'

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Thank you Laith for brining this poll to my attention.