Baghdad, Iraq – The Government of Iraq, the Government of Spain, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) today signed an agreement to advance the safe, dignified, and sustainable reintegration of Iraqi nationals returning from Al-Hol Camp in northeast Syria, supported by a €1 million contribution from the Government of Spain.

The project focuses on addressing the complex reintegration needs of Iraqi returnees, particularly women, girls, and persons with disabilities, following rehabilitation and reintegration-readiness processes at the Al-Amal Rehabilitation Centre. Upon return to their areas of origin, Iraqi nationals will receive community-based reintegration and reconciliation support, alongside assistance to vulnerable host community members to strengthen acceptance and social cohesion.

“The return of Iraqi nationals requires a comprehensive and humane approach that prioritizes dignity, reconciliation, and community stability,” said Mr. Mohammed Hussein Mohammed Bahr AlUloom, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Bilateral Relations. “This partnership reflects Iraq’s commitment to ensuring that returnees are supported not only as individuals, but as part of communities working toward lasting peace and stability.”

Implemented in partnership with national and local authorities, the project adopts a multisectoral, conflict-sensitive, and inclusive approach, combining institutional capacity-building, community infrastructure rehabilitation, and socio-economic reintegration support. At least 150 families will benefit from livelihoods assistance, while 1,000 returnees will receive free legal aid to access civil documentation, an essential step for accessing services, securing livelihoods, and fully reintegrating into community life. Approximately 70 per cent of beneficiaries are expected to be women-headed households.

“Reintegration is not a single event, but a sustained process that must place returnees at its center. By however supporting both returnees and host communities, this initiative helps rebuild trust, reduce exclusion, and create the foundations for peaceful coexistence and long-term recovery.” said Titon Mitra, UNDP Iraq Resident Representative.

The project also provides community-based mental health and psychosocial support, addressing trauma and strengthening resilience among returnees and vulnerable community members. Complementary activities, including Sports for Peace initiatives and the rehabilitation of community facilities, further promote dialogue and social cohesion at the local level.

“Spain is proud to support Iraq’s efforts to ensure safe and dignified reintegration for those returning from Al-Hol Camp,” said Mr. Diego Martínez Belio, State Secretary for Foreign and Global Affairs of Spain. “This agreement underscores Spain’s commitment to peacebuilding, social cohesion, and durable solutions that place people and communities at the heart of recovery.”

The agreement reinforces shared national and international efforts to promote reconciliation, stability, and durable solutions for displacement, contributing to Iraq’s broader recovery and development priorities.

Media contact:

Mohammed Al-Bahbahanee, Communications Specialist | mohammed.al-bahbahanee@undp.org , +964 7704 399 222