UNHCR, which leads the Camp Coordination/Camp Management and Shelter Clusters in Iraq, welcomes the Government’s to allow the construction of semi-upgraded shelters in camps for displaced persons in Duhok Governate.
The decision represents a longer-term response to the large fire in Shariya IDP camp on 4 June and will not only reduce risks of fire but is a positive step in terms of protection, dignity, safety, and privacy for each individual family.
The shelter upgrade, something that UNHCR and humanitarian partners have been advocating for, is a transitional solution until these families can go back home in a voluntary, safe and dignified manner. UNHCR and humanitarian partners will work closely with the authorities, Camp Management, and the community to set appropriate standards for the upgrades. The decision complements the immediate response of Government, Camp Management, and humanitarian partners to the 4 June fire. In the immediate aftermath of the fire, UNHCR and its partners contributed tents, core relief items, additional fire extinguishers and other protection and assistance services, such as replacement of civil documents, to the affected population.
UNHCR will continue its long-standing fire prevention activities including provision of fire extinguishers and risk awareness and risk mitigation activities in support of and in coordination with Camp Management and camp-based Civil Defence authorities. UNHCR would also like to urge donor countries to contribute to this urgent shelter need so that displaced families in Shariya and other camps can live with peace of mind, protected from hazards until they find longer-term solutions.

Source: United Nations Iraq