UN and Iraq Launch ONE UN Plan to Support the Return, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration of Iraqis from Al-Hol Camp

The event, held at Al-Nahrain Center in Baghdad, was attended by senior representatives of the Government of Iraq, the United Nations, the diplomatic community, and international partners.

Speaking at the ceremony, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq and Head of UNAMI Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan stated: “Iraq’s leadership, in facilitating the return of its citizens from northeastern Syria, sets a global positive precedent. This comprehensive and courageous initiative has been praised by the highest levels in the United Nations, including the Secretary-General himself.” He added: “It is time to close this file and turn the page on ISIS threats. It is a challenging project and solving it in accordance with international standards and in a manner that commensurate with the level of this country that has shaped the civilization of humanity is evidence of Iraq’s recovery.”

For his part, the National Security Advisor Mr. Qassim al-Araji thanked all government and international partners for their efforts, emphasizing the importance of accelerating the return process and closing Al-Hol camp. He also urged international partners to continue supporting Iraq in this effort.

The ONE UN Plan builds upon Iraq’s efforts since 2021 to repatriate and reintegrate its citizens, particularly women and children who have lived in harsh and volatile conditions in Al-Hol. More than 60 percent of the Iraqis in the camp are children under 17, and 20 percent are under five, many of whom have been denied access to fundamental rights, including education. Recognizing the deteriorating humanitarian and security situation in Al-Hol, the Government of Iraq has accelerated the return process, despite the many challenges. The United Nations has commended Iraq’s determination and reiterated the importance of strengthening national coordination mechanisms and empowering local authorities to sustain the progress made.

The ONE UN Plan: “New Beginnings” is part of a broader global framework and is implemented through the established UN-Government of Iraq technical working group.