UNHCR - United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

Published purpose

25 March, 2011 - There are more than 1.3 million internally displaced people (IDPs) in Iraq as well as 250,000 returnees (Iraqis who have returned to Iraq from neighbouring countries). In addition, there are some 35,000 refugees, mostly from Iran and Turkey, residing in Iraq. Many IDPs and returnees live in dire circumstances that require urgent humanitarian interventions. The situation facing refugees is even worse. There is a pressing need to find durable solutions for those displaced, while ensuring that their essential needs are met. With CIDA support, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) aims to provide protection and assistance to refugees, IDPs and returnees and to help ensure that their basic needs are covered. The UNHCR aims to provide refugees with basic assistance such as food, water, and health and education services. Also, for IDPs and returnees, UNHCR coordinates the provision of emergency shelter, water and sanitation as well as non-food items and hygiene kits.