Preventing IDPs from Returning Home Continues in Erbil, Duhok

Reports 12:06 PM - 2024-06-23

IDPs' camp.

The internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Iraq have less than two months remaining to return to their homes. Those returning within this period will receive a compensation package consisting of four million Iraqi dinars and various household electrical appliances. Anyone returning after this period will no longer be eligible to receive any incentive. The Iraqi Minister of Migration and Displacement has consistently stated that IDPs in Erbil and Duhok are currently unable to return to their homes, while efforts are being made to facilitate their return in Sulaymaniyah.

Ivan Fayeq Jabro, Iraq's Minister of Migration and Displacement, stated at a press conference that efforts are underway to close all IDP camps in the Kurdistan Region by the deadline set by the Iraqi federal government. 

"However, our employees are encountering obstacles in Erbil and Duhok, causing delays in procedures and impeding our work," she explained.

"We are attempting to resolve the issue with the Kurdistan Region through the Iraqi Prime Minister. We are seeking assistance and hope to receive the same level of facilitation for our work in Erbil and Duhok as we do in Sulaymaniyah," said Fayeq.

Obstructions continue in Erbil and Duhok

Samer Mashkur, director of the Kurdistan Region's Provinces Department of the Iraqi Ministry of Migration and Displacement, told PUKMEDIA: "We are receiving more assistance and facilities in Sulaymaniyah province than in Erbil and Duhok, which is due to the fact that the camps in Erbil and Duhok are under the control of the Interior Ministry of the Kurdistan Regional Government."

The Iraqi government will bear the cost of returning the IDPs

The Iraqi Ministry of Migration and Displacement has devised a comprehensive strategy to resolve the IDP problem by ensuring that they return to their homes by the end of July this year. To encourage their return, the plan includes the reconstruction of their areas and covering the expenses of their journey, amounting to 4 million Iraqi dinars per family. Additionally, various services will be provided to each family. It is important to note that any IDP family returning to their homes after July 30 will no longer be eligible for assistance.

Complaints have been filed over the obstacles

The Iraqi Minister of Migration and Displacement filed a formal complaint with the Federal Court against the Kurdistan Region's President, Prime Minister, and Interior Minister. The case concerns the barriers that prevent IDPs in Erbil and Duhok from returning to their homes.



PUKMEDIA