The United Nations has stated that Iraq has successfully returned nearly 5 million displaced persons to their home areas, while stressing the urgent need for economic reform and private sector development.

Return of Displaced Persons and Associated Costs

Abdallah al-Dardari, Assistant Secretary-General and Regional Director for the Arab States at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), said Iraq has achieved notable progress in the return of displaced persons.

He noted that 4 million and 900 thousand displaced persons have been returned to their original areas through cooperation with international organizations, at a total cost of $1.8 billion.

Shingal (Sinjar) Reconstruction Plan

The UNDP Regional Director revealed that the Iraqi government has requested the preparation of a specialized development project for the Sinjar region.

The project aims to facilitate the return of the local population to their areas while ensuring access to essential services and a dignified standard of living.

Economic Challenges and Oil Export Pressures

Al-Dardari warned that regional tensions have had a negative impact on Iraq’s oil exports.

He emphasized that Iraq requires fundamental changes to its economic structure, particularly through diversifying revenue sources, attracting foreign investment, and expanding the domestic private sector.

International Support and Deployment of Expert Team

The United Nations expressed readiness to support the Iraqi Development Fund with legal and technical expertise.

A team of international experts is expected to visit Iraq by the end of this year to assess economic strategies and monitor ongoing growth and development efforts across the country.