Remarks to the press from SRSG for Iraq and Head of UNAMI Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan at the Jedaa 1 Rehabilitation Centre

Greetings to all,

This is my first visit to the Jedaa 1 Rehabilitation Centre, to witness first-hand the efforts being made in support of those returning to Iraq after a prolonged period of displacement and suffering in Al-Hol camp in northeastern Syria, and also to meet with and hear from the residents here about their concerns, comments, and aspirations.

As I mentioned already, I would like to begin by acknowledging the efforts of the Government of Iraq, specifically the Ministry of Migration and Displaced, the Office of National Security Advisor, the Ministry of Interior, and all other Government and international partners who have provided and are still providing assistance, protection, and support for displaced populations. These efforts are truly commendable.

I would also wish to express, on behalf of the United Nations, our full support for Iraq’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of continued returns from Al-Hol camp. We urge all other countries and the international community to take responsibility and to act towards the international goal to repatriate all categories from Al-Hol camp.

Iraq’s proactive approach is a positive example that should be noted. Iraq is demonstrating, through this program, that responsible and safe repatriation is possible, through actions and measures anchored in the principles of accountability, protection, dignified reintegration into society, and respect for human rights.

The main point that I would like to stress here is ensuring the dignity of people, protecting societies, and overcoming all the negative aspects and pains of the past. Iraq is capable of that. Iraq is on the brink of creating a unique international experience. We in the United Nations are working, your excellency, together with the Iraqi Government and with you, to achieve that.

When United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited this Centre in March 2023, he appealed from here to all countries with their citizens in Al-Hol camp to do the same as Iraq is doing, to work hard to repatriate their citizens from this camp and resettle them in a dignified and safe manner, in line with international law and maintaining human dignity, and in the case of children, guided by the principles of the best interests of children.

I reiterate this call today, and I would like to point out that there is no room for inaction. This is a matter of human decency, and it is a matter of security. The longer we let this untenable situation in Al-Hol fester, the more resentment and despair will grow, the greater the risks of exploiting such situations and circumstances and the greater the risks to security and stability, not just for Iraq, but also for the rest of the region.

Today’s visit, together with my host, Her Excellency Dr. Evan, is a reminder of the vital role that international and multilateral collaboration plays in addressing the needs of vulnerable communities. The United Nations stands firmly alongside the Government of Iraq in our shared commitment to providing safe, dignified, and sustainable solutions for whom? For those who have suffered the consequences of displacement and the legacy of the painful past. It is essential that we continue to work together to ensure that the reintegration process is comprehensive, sustainable, and safe, and to work together for a promising and bright future.

The return of Iraqis to their homes is not just about coming back to a place – they are returning to a future. A future where they can once again rebuild their lives, contribute positively to their communities, and ensure that their children – who are first and foremost Iraqis – have the opportunities they deserve. Reintegration is not without its challenges, and we must be mindful of the obstacles that returnees face in terms of their security, decent livelihoods, education opportunities, social acceptance, and protection. We in the United Nations do not accept any violation or humiliation of human dignity. The rule of law must prevail. Credible institutions that protect the country and its citizens should be activated. Human rights must be respected, and human dignity must be cared for. We are working with the Iraqi Government and authorities to ensure that.

The Rehabilitation Centre, under the Ministry of Migration and Displaced, has become the transit facility and the portal of safe passage for a new life for over 10,000 individuals since May 2021. Our hope and objective is for this to expand, including the strengthening of the quality of services, worthy of Iraq and the dignity of the Iraqi people.

I have had the opportunity, with my colleagues, to tour the facility alongside my esteemed host, Her Excellency the Minister of Migration and Displaced, and to hear from my colleagues working in UN agencies, whom I salute for their efforts, and who spare no effort, in cooperation with civil society organizations to provide hope to those who only a few years ago had no hope. This is Iraq’s message to the world, and this is our message through our visit today.

I would like to take this opportunity to point out that rehabilitation and reintegration support, including legal assistance to access civil documentation, mental health and psychosocial support, education, health, economic empowerment and decent livelihoods programs to strengthen life-skills, and efforts to reconnect returnees with their families and communities, are some of the services the Centre offers. 

I would also like to stress the importance of the repatriation process to the homeland. A homeland that accommodates all and forgives, given the regional instability and the hardship Al-Hol residents are facing. This urgency is especially critical for vulnerable groups like unaccompanied children, women survivors of violence, and victims of trafficking.

The United Nations will remain deeply committed to supporting Iraq in its efforts in the reintegration process and addressing the multifaceted needs of returnees, including physical and mental health support, vocational training, and access to quality education and employment opportunities. Furthermore, we are working closely with the Iraqi Government and international partners to enhance the capacity of local institutions, ensure better coordination on the ground, and ensure that the voices of affected communities are heard and acted upon.

While considerable progress has been made, there is definitely still a long way to go; many challenges remain, and we must ensure that our efforts are sustainable and intensified to keep up with the high numbers of returns. We look forward to the return of all Iraqis outside the country, specifically those in Al-Hol camp.

Jedaa is just the beginning, not the end. The situation might not be perfect, nor do we aim for perfection, but if there are cases of mistreatment that are contrary to the law and international law, we are confident that the pertinent authorities in this dear country will thoroughly investigate and act upon them in a swift and transparent manner, taking all necessary measures to prevent their occurrence or repetition. We in the United Nations are diligently following up on all these issues, in coordination with the concerned Iraqi authorities to prevent their occurrence. Even if these are isolated cases, they are still unacceptable and not befitting of Iraq, nor are they acceptable by Iraq. Anyone who has lived in fear for years should not be subjected to any additional hardship. We owe it to them to ensure that they are safe, and we have great and steadfast confidence in Iraq and the Iraqi Government. I reiterate that the international community is committed to remaining engaged and supportive, alongside the Government of Iraq, as we continue working together to provide meaningful solutions and a better future for the returnees. I mean all returnees, without exception.

I conclude by reiterating that the United Nations stands firmly and in a sustainable manner with the Government of Iraq in its sincere efforts to promote stability, peace, and recovery. Together, we can create an environment where all Iraqis can thrive and rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.

Thank you