EU Allocates €8 Million to Support Community Reintegration in Iraq

ICRC

An internally displaced family.

The European Union announced on Monday that it will allocate €8 million over 18 months to support Iraq’s efforts to strengthen community reintegration and social cohesion.

Joris Herren, Head of the EU Regional Team for the Middle East and North Africa, said in a statement seen by PUKMEDIA that the funding aims to promote stability and assist families affected by conflict and displacement.

Herren said the initiative, to be implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will support Iraqi citizens returning from Al-Hol camp, while also assisting vulnerable groups in host communities to ensure inclusive and sustainable reintegration.

He noted that the programme is being carried out in close coordination with the Iraqi government, led by the Ministry of Migration and Displacement, and is aligned with national priorities and Iraq’s reintegration framework. He added that the EU’s contribution reflects its strong commitment to Iraq’s recovery by investing in communities and national institutions, with the aim of turning returns into lasting opportunities for peace and resilience.

According to Herren, the initiative will focus on governorates hosting the highest numbers of returnees, including Ninewa, Anbar, Salah al-Din, Diyala, Kirkuk, Baghdad and Erbil. Support will include livelihood opportunities, assistance for small businesses, mental health and psychosocial services, legal aid for obtaining civil documentation, and community activities designed to build trust and promote peaceful coexistence.

For his part, UNDP Resident Representative in Iraq Titon Mitra said reintegration for families returning after years of displacement means feeling accepted and being able to rebuild their lives.

“With the support of the European Union and the leadership of the Iraqi government, this programme is helping communities and returnees move forward with dignity and stability,” he said.

Mitra added that the EU-funded initiative will provide practical assistance to reduce tensions, prevent renewed displacement and strengthen social stability.


PUKMEDIA