Baghdad, 19 August 2024 –UNDP Iraq and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in collaboration with the Government of Iraq, announced the launch of "The Road Back Home: Community Reconciliation and Reintegration of Iraqis Returning from Syria’s Al-Hol Camp" (CRRISA). This flagship programme is slated to support thousands of Iraqi nationals returning from Al- Hol camp in northeast Syria. This initiative builds upon “One UN Plan for Supporting the Return of Iraqi Nationals from Northeast Syria mid-2023 to mid-2024", which outlines programmatic priorities, sectoral budget estimates, and a coordination mechanism among involved actors, including UNDP in its capacity as a co-chair of the Reintegration Taskforce, in partnership with the Ministry of Migration and Displacement (MoMD). 

CRRISA promotes community stability and unity and will help reintegrate over 9,000 returnees as well as benefit 9,000 community members in the areas of return in the liberated governorates. This will guarantee a 1 to 1 ratio of support to ensure communities are not overwhelmed by the influx of returnees. 

"The CRRISA programme is a lifeline for the people of Iraq, fostering sustainable reintegration and community stability for those who have been displaced from their homes for years. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to our donors USAID, SIDA, and the EU, whose support makes this possible, as well as to the Iraqi Ministry of Displacement and Migration and the Office of the National Security Advisor for their active involvement and partnership with us," stated Mr. Auke Lootsma, UNDP Iraq Resident Representative. 

"We call upon all stakeholders to join us in supporting these vital initiatives, as together we can build a more stable and cohesive Iraq for all its people." added Mr. Lootsma.

CRRISA will focus on creating an enabling environment for returnees, providing socio-economic support, and addressing explosive ordnance contamination. This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen the social fabric of conflict-affected communities.

The event was attended by key stakeholders from the Iraqi Ministry of Displacement and Migration, the Office of National Security Advisor, various provincial governors, mayors, and representatives from local and international organizations.

According to USAID/Iraq’s Acting Mission Director, Erin-Mone Marquez, "The CRRISA program is a partnership between USAID, the Government of Iraq, and our partners at the UNDP. By supporting the sustainable reintegration of over 18,000 vulnerable Iraqis, this inclusive initiative will help rebuild community stability and cohesion in the liberated areas. USAID is proud to be a part of this transformative effort that will improve the lives of so many and lay the groundwork for Iraq’s long-term peace and prosperity."

The Iraqi Minister of Displacement and Migration, Ms. Evan Faeq Gabro, expressed strong support for CRRISA. "The reintegration and reconciliation of our people are paramount to the future of Iraq. We extend our gratitude to UNDP and our international partners for their unwavering commitment to being with us as we continue to rebuild our nation and uplift our communities. This partnership is a beacon of hope for all Iraqis." 

These projects not only focus on individual returnees, but also aim to build a foundation for lasting peace and development in Iraq, ensuring the reintegration process is inclusive and addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by returnees and their communities.

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For more information please contact:

Christine Cool: christine.cool@undp.org

ABOUT UNDP:

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.

ABOUT USAID:

The United States, through USAID, has been a steadfast partner of Iraq, helping enhance the social and economic stability of all its citizens. USAID works with the Iraqi government, international institutions, and a network of local partners to facilitate returns and empower minorities, women, youth, and other vulnerable groups in Iraq.