Humanitarian

KRG, IOM to host conference on refugees, human rights

The upcoming conference aims to explore concrete measures to enhance the protection, empowerment, and integration of refugees. Discussions will center around raising awareness of refugee rights and the relevant legal framework.

Displaced Yazidis stand by their tents at the Chamishko camp for internally displaced persons (IDP) in the city of Zakho. (Photo: Safin Hamed/AFP)
Displaced Yazidis stand by their tents at the Chamishko camp for internally displaced persons (IDP) in the city of Zakho. (Photo: Safin Hamed/AFP)
Kurdistan Conference Office of Coordinator for International Advocacy IOM IDPs Human Rights Refugees

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - The Office of the Coordinator of International Advocacy, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), is set to host a conference focused on internally displaced persons (IDPs) and human rights.

This event falls within the framework of the Kurdistan Regional Government's (KRG) comprehensive Human Rights Plan.

The Kurdistan Region, despite regional instability, provides a safe haven for over one million refugees and IDPs.

The KRG has consistently adhered to international standards in its treatment of displaced persons, shouldering 80 percent of the associated service costs.

The upcoming conference aims to explore concrete measures to enhance the protection, empowerment, and integration of refugees. Discussions will center around raising awareness of refugee rights and the relevant legal framework.

Moreover, the event will facilitate identification of opportunities for cooperation and support on various refugee-related matters.

Currently, the Kurdistan Region hosts 1,022,000 displaced individuals, including 723,114 IDPs and over 279,000 refugees from other countries, comprising a total of 211,984 families. This diverse population includes refugees from Syria, Turkey, Iran, Palestine, and other nations.

While 30 percent of these refugees reside within 33 designated camps, the majority (70 percent) live outside of camps. Erbil accommodates the largest share of refugees (41 percent), followed by Duhok (40 percent) and Sulaimani (19 percent).

The KRG bears a significant financial burden in providing services to these vulnerable populations, covering approximately 80 percent of the costs.

Civil society organizations have seen a reduction in their aid contributions, leading to an estimated annual budget requirement of $938 million for basic services.

This conference serves as a critical platform to address the multifaceted challenges faced by refugees and IDPs in the Kurdistan Region, promoting collaboration and support to ensure their rights and well-being.