Iraq

Overview

In total nearly six million Iraqis have been displaced due to conflict since January 2014; more than 1.8 million continue to be displaced, and more than 4.1 million have returned (as of October 2018). In its effort to meet the needs of Iraq’s most vulnerable displaced persons, IOM – the UN Migration Agency - Iraq Mission, scaled-up its operations to deliver aid throughout the country, in coordination with the Iraqi government, donors and UN agencies. IOM Iraq has provided life-saving aid to millions of people across all of Iraq’s 18 governorates.

Since it began operations in 2003, IOM Iraq has built a strong network of staff, offices and logistics, enabling the mission to respond quickly and effectively to the current displacement crisis. The more than 1,400 staff based in Baghdad, Erbil, Basra and numerous sub-offices are dedicated to improving the conditions of the displaced and to working with local host communities. With a presence on the ground in all governorates, IOM staff has been on the frontlines of the humanitarian response to this unprecedented crisis in Iraq. 

Office

Main Office in Baghdad, UNAMI Compound (Diwan 2), International Zone

Tel: +3908 3105 2600 Ext. 5857 & 5928 
Email: iomiraq@iom.int

Migration Activities

Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM)

The Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) is IOM’s information management system to track and monitor population displacement during crises. The DTM collects key information on internally displaced persons and returnees, gathers and processes multi-layered data and disseminates an array of information products that facilitate understanding of the evolving needs of the affected population across the country. 

Communication with Communities initiatives

IOM Iraq provides a range of emergency response services including non-food item kits, shelter, primary health care, psychosocial assistance, camp coordination and camp management, transportation, livelihoods assistance, and emergency infrastructure to help displaced persons live in dignity and support themselves. Through Communication with Communities initiatives, IOM promotes two-way communication and disseminates information for people affected by crisis on a range of topics including health awareness, camp safety, shelter kit set-up and irregular migration. 

Community Transition and Recovery Programme

IOM has also expanded its Community Transition and Recovery Programme in Iraq, which aims to improve resilience and enhance stability in conflict-affected communities. Activities include income generation, reconstruction of infrastructure, capacity building and the promotion of social cohesion. 

Community Policing Programme

To contribute to stabilization, IOM’s Community Policing Programme brings together police and community members to promote positive partnerships. Community policing forums and trainings create space to foster better understanding between security actors, communities and civil society.  

Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration Programme

IOM’s Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration Programme, in close coordination with the Iraqi government, supports Iraqis who have chosen to return home to reestablish themselves in their communities, through a variety of assistance means. 

Resettlement and Movement Management Programme 

The Resettlement and Movement Management Programme provides movement assistance to those entitled to resettlement or refugee status in other countries, in collaboration with the resettlement country, Iraqi authorities, and UNHCR.  

As a member of the United Nations Country Team for Iraq, IOM works closely with the UN system and with Iraqi authorities in support of the Iraqi National Development Strategy and the United Nations Development Assistance Framework. As an active partner of the United Nations Humanitarian Response Plan, IOM has been coordinating emergency response actions across multiple project areas with government authorities, partner UN agencies and NGOs.