UNHCR Protection Services for Refugees in Iraq, 2022-25

By John Lee.

UNHCR Iraq has published a review of its protection services for refugees in Iraq from 2022 to 2025.

According to the overview:

• Over USD 11.8 million was contributed through UNHCR to prevent, mitigate the risk of, and respond to gender-based violence. UNHCR and partners supported more than 16,400 survivors (women, men, and children) with tailored services to recover and be safe from further violence. These services included counselling sessions, safety plans tailored to the needs of individuals, and referrals to other services, such as legal assistance and psychosocial support.
• UNHCR provided technical support on prevention, risk mitigation and response to gender-based violence to regional and local authorities, including the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. Over 3,300 government staff and service providers were trained to identify and respond to incidents of violence, guiding survivors through support services, facilitating safe and confidential referrals to other services which would help them, and providing appropriate follow-up.
• More than 35,400 refugees and Iraqis participated in awareness sessions that enhanced knowledge of women's rights and promoted positive attitude and behaviors, contributing to a safer environment in the community, particularly for women and girls.
• UNHCR contributed USD 15 million to protect refugee children from violence, abuse and exploitation and provide access to child-friendly services. UNHCR and partners provided support services to over 14,200 refugee children, including counselling, psychosocial support, assessment and tailored interventions to improve their safety and well-being.
• More than 3,900 refugee parents and caregivers participated in support sessions that strengthened their capacity and skills to address their children's needs and create a safer environment for them at home and in the community. Some 3,200 government staff and service providers were trained to prevent and respond to violence and abuse against children and provide them with child-friendly support services.

Click here to download the full report.

(Source: UNHCR)