Baghdad: The Ministry of Migration and Displacement, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have entered into a $10 million agreement aimed at facilitating the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the reconstruction of critical infrastructure across four governorates.
According to Iraqi News Agency, Karim Al-Nouri, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Migration and Displacement, highlighted the significance of this agreement during a signing ceremony. He emphasized that this collaborative framework represents both a moral and national commitment to enhancing the stability and growth of communities affected by displacement. The initiative seeks to provide sustainable solutions, particularly focusing on the pressing challenge of enabling IDPs to return to their original areas.
Al-Nouri further elaborated that the plan is expected to benefit over 18,000 individuals in the governorates of Anbar, Salah al-Din, Nineveh, and Kirkuk. The approach includes rehabilitating housing and community infrastructure, fostering climate-resilient livelihoods, and bolstering peacebuilding and conflict prevention mechanisms. These efforts aim to support not only the IDPs and returnees but also the host communities.
He stated that the core elements of the projects within this framework prioritize development and rehabilitation, alongside agricultural initiatives and promoting social cohesion. This underscores a commitment to ensuring a safe, sustainable, and dignified reintegration for displaced families.
Al-Nouri also noted the essential provision of fundamental needs such as job opportunities, healthcare, and educational services to facilitate the return of IDPs. He commended the dedication of partners, particularly the contributions from the Korean side and the UNDP, which have been pivotal in driving the success of these initiatives.
He concluded by stressing the importance of diligent monitoring and continuous assessment of the implementation stages, expediting project completion, and maintaining quality to maximize the benefits for the targeted groups.