Iraq situation
Millions of Iraqis have been forced to abandon their homes after decades of conflict and violence.
Terrified, many fled with just the clothes on their backs. Now, with their limited financial resources; exhausted by basic accommodation and food, they are in urgent need of support.
1.2 million
internally displaced people inside Iraq
262,000
Syrian refugees hosted in Iraq
Last updated November 2022 - Visit the Data Portal for more statistics
"We had no choice other than to leave because it was not safe for our children. We left everything – our clothes, our furniture, even our food."
Nafa Jihad, 40, father
Millions of Iraqis have been displaced since the start of 2014, inside Iraq and as refugees in other countries. On top of this, Iraq hosts over 300,000 refugees and asylum-seekers, mostly residing in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, with limited immediate return prospects.
If you are a refugee and need help, click here for more information.
Despite three years of relative stability and an ongoing transition from a humanitarian emergency response toward one rooted in recovery and development plans, displaced populations in Iraq continue to have humanitarian needs. The socio-economic situation remains fragile, and the political and security environment unpredictable.
What is UNHCR doing to help?
In line with the humanitarian community’s transition efforts, UNHCR’s interventions are aimed at enhancing displaced populations’ self-reliance and socio-economic inclusion in public systems and development programmes. Support is also provided to public institutions to deliver basic services to all populations affected by forced displacement and vulnerable host communities.
UNHCR is on the ground in Iraq and surrounding regions, providing protection support with registration and documentation, and other basic essentials. But as the situation continues, urgent help is needed to ensure we can continue our work on the ground and support everyone who needs our help.
To find the latest figures, please visit our Data Portal. You can also read the latest external updates on our Global Focus page.