United Nations resident and humanitarian coordinator Irena Voyackova-Sollorano expressed serious concern about the recent accelerated closure of camps for Internally displaced persons (IDPs) across Iraq, saying that thousands of already desperate Yazidis have yet to find their homes after being removed from the camps.

The following is a statement of the resident and humanitarian coordinator of the United Nations Irena Vojackova-Sollorano:

"I am seriously concerned about the thousands of civilians who have been displaced from camps in Iraq over the past six weeks and still have not found new homes. Since mid-October, the government of Iraq has closed or consolidated 11 such camps and reclassified two of them as unofficial sites, affecting more than 27,000 people. An estimated 78 per cent of them were Yazidi women and children who were already vulnerable. Their well-being is of particular concern in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the onset of winter.

It is not about closing the camps, it is about what will happen to these Iraqis, their safety, well-being and future. According to the United Nations, about 30 per cent of these returned people do not have safe or decent housing and remain extremely vulnerable. I am also concerned about signs that more Iraqi families may face a similar situation if the remaining five camps run by the government of Iraq are closed before the end of the year. The United Nations shares the government's goal of ending the displacement crisis in Iraq but reiterates that the return of internally displaced persons must be voluntary, safe, dignified and informed, with pre-established conditions in their areas of origin to ensure reintegration and provide sustainable solutions. The United Nations is firmly committed to supporting the government of Iraq in promoting and achieving lasting solutions for all vulnerable displaced persons and returnees in Iraq, including by supporting social cohesion measures.

It is essential to continue efforts to improve the resilience of Yazidi communities. The support of these groups contributes to the future stability and success of Iraq. Together with our national and international humanitarian partners, we are closely monitoring this issue, will continue to provide support, and stand ready to provide further assistance when required, in accordance with humanitarian principles."

Ezdina.com