Baghdad: The Ministry of Migration and Displaced Persons announced on Sunday the closure of 157 out of 175 camps for displaced persons, noting that Iraq has achieved success in the process of closing camps and facilitating the voluntary return of the displaced.

According to Iraqi News Agency, Ministry Undersecretary Karim Al-Nouri highlighted that the number of displaced persons reached 5 million after 2014, with 175 camps established to support them. Presently, only 18 camps remain, located in the governorates of Duhok and Erbil, housing 19,000 families, the majority from Sinjar.

Al-Nouri emphasized that Iraq has made progress in closing camps and promoting the voluntary return of displaced persons without coercion. He expressed optimism that their return would ensure safety and provision of essential living needs within a stable environment.

Al-Nouri acknowledged existing challenges but assured that the ministry is actively working to address them. He noted that while returning to their cities might be difficult due to incomplete reconstruction, the hardships of living in the camps are greater.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe, dignified, and sustainable return for all displaced persons.