Following prolonged conflict in Iraq, encouraging the safe and dignified return of Iraqis to their home communities is a priority to achieve social cohesion. UNDP Iraq’s Community-based Reconciliation and Reintegration Project, funded by the Government of Japan, is currently underway to encourage reintegration of 4,000 families in four areas of Anbar, Ninewa and Salah al-Din governorates with a comprehensive package of livelihood support, housing rehabilitation, and Mental Health and Psychosocial Support for previously displaced returnees and community members.

As part of this project, a series of Town Hall meetings is being rolled out, the first of which was held on 31 March in Habbaniyah, Anbar. The purpose of these meetings is to raise awareness among the community and encourage reconciliation and acceptance among returning internally displaced families and the community of return.

Over 120 people attended the Habbaniyah Town Hall meeting, representing a wide spectrum of people including women, youth, local Community-Based Organizations, religious leaders, and local authorities. Every participant was encouraged to speak up to discuss their thoughts on community readiness in Habbaniyah.