Iraqi crisis
The war in 2003 and the precarious security situation ever since have resulted in displacement and lack of basic protection for the civilian population. Since 2007 alone, the European Commission has provided almost €104 million in humanitarian aid to help the victims of the Iraqi crisis. Aid goes to people displaced inside Iraq as well as to refugees in neighbouring Syria, Jordan and Lebanon.
Recent ECHO Assistance
The €8 million aid package adopted in 2012 provides protection and relief to people displaced inside Iraq as well as other vulnerable populations affected by the conflict. ECHO also allocates aid to refugees in neighbouring countries to cover basic health-care, psychosocial assistance, and emergency support to the most vulnerable. Specific support for UNHCR's core mandate of protection is also provided. This is particularly important in identifying the most vulnerable groups and assessing their specific needs.
Security problems
Humanitarian access in Iraq is still a major problem due to heightened security risks. Many areas in Iraq remain inaccessible for international organisations, which hampers the needs assessments and delivery of humanitarian aid to the most vulnerable groups.
Stories from the field
- Assisting Iraqi refugees (2010)
- Laughter therapy for Iraqi children (2008)
- Life as a refugee on the border (2004)
- The curse of unexploded bombs and mines (2003)
- The struggle for clean water in Baghdad (2003)
- Caught in the middle (2003)
Related information
- Info sheet: humanitarian aid for the victims of the Iraqi crisis
(February 2011) - Press releases
- Contact: Regional offices
Other EU websites about Iraq:
