Middle East

Iraq

Health
Water, sanitation & hygiene

1997

mission start date

national staff

expatriate staff

14 094

people supported

1997

mission start date

national staff

expatriate staff

14 094

people supported

Context

The context in Iraq is marked by a protracted displacement crisis, eroded national cohesion, and struggling basic services. Nine years after the onset of the threat caused by the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), around 2.5 million people, including internally displaced persons and vulnerable communities, remain in need of assistance. The humanitarian implications of the crisis are further exacerbated by climate change, with Iraq being the fifth most affected country in the world. Droughts, floods, extreme heatwaves, and sandstorms significantly impact the most exposed communities, intensifying health, water, sanitation, hygiene, and food security-related vulnerabilities. Efforts to address these challenges are ongoing but are hindered by persistent instability and environmental degradation.

Our approach
Description of the mission

Since 1997, Première Urgence Internationale has been a steadfast presence in Iraq, dedicated to addressing urgent needs. Initially focused on immediate emergency assistance, the organization has expanded its scope to include comprehensive development programming, reflecting its commitment to adapting and responding to the changing landscape of needs. Priorities include enhancing the capacity and resilience of local health systems, mitigating climate impacts, fostering environmental sustainability and empowering local communities and organizations. Première Urgence Internationale teams in Iraq strive to foster long-term development and resilience in Iraq, ensuring that efforts are both impactful and sustainable.

Première Urgence Internationale
in action

Première Urgence Internationale in Iraq focuses on several key areas to address humanitarian and development challenges:

Health system strengthening:

Capacity building of health facilities in maternal, child, and newborn health, respiratory units, reproductive health and infection prevention and control.
Provision of medical and non-medical equipment to primary health centers and hospitals.
Sustainable infrastructure rehabilitation.
Direct mental health and psychosocial support, especially in perinatal mental health.

Climate change adaptation and shelter support:

Sustainable rehabilitation of shelters with structural damages
Climate adaptation of shelters
Installation of water, sanitation and hygiene facilities at household and community levels
Implementation of climate shelters (vegetation, water points, and shaded areas) for protection against extreme climatic events.

Localization and capacity sharing:

Strengthening organizational and technical capacities of local organizations.
Establishing fair partnerships with local civil society organizations, public actors, and community groups.
Advocating for local empowerment and participation of grassroots organizations in decision-making processes.

Première Urgence Internationale’s comprehensive approach aims to enhance access to quality services, empower communities, and ensure sustainable impacts in Iraq’s recovery and development.