The European Union, through its Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI), is providing €8 million over 18 months to support Iraq in strengthening community reintegration, stability, and social cohesion for families affected by conflict and displacement. The initiative, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), focuses on Iraqi nationals returning from Al-Hol camp while also assisting vulnerable members of host communities to ensure reintegration benefits are shared broadly.
The programme is carried out in close collaboration with the Government of Iraq, under the leadership of the Ministry of Migration and Displacement (MoMD), and aligns with national priorities and Iraq’s reintegration framework. Joris Heeren, Head of the EU/FPI Regional Team MENA, emphasized that the EU’s contribution reflects a strong commitment to supporting Iraq’s stability and recovery by investing in communities and national institutions to transform returns into lasting opportunities for peace and resilience.
The initiative targets governorates with the highest numbers of returnees, including Ninewa, Anbar, Salah al-Din, Diyala, Kirkuk, Baghdad, and Erbil. Support measures include livelihood opportunities, small business assistance, mental health and psychosocial services, legal support for civil documentation, and community activities aimed at fostering trust, coexistence, and long-term peace in affected communities.
UNDP works closely with national and local authorities to deliver practical, community-focused assistance. Titon Mitra, Resident Representative of UNDP Iraq, highlighted that reintegration is about helping families feel accepted and rebuild their lives with dignity and stability, emphasizing the joint role of the EU and the Government of Iraq in supporting these efforts.
Through this EU-funded programme, communities across Iraq will gain access to practical support that reduces tensions, prevents re-displacement, and strengthens social stability, ensuring that reintegration initiatives contribute to sustainable peace and resilience.
