As the security situation in Iraq gradually stabilizes, there is an increasing flow of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees back to their homes. Overall, addressing the challenges of tens of thousands of returnee families is a key problem for Iraq; reports indicate that Iraq will need at least 1.27 million more housing units over the next 10 years. Refugees and IDPs returning to their original homes face particularly difficult circumstances. Their long-term displacement and absence has depleted family resources, and they are usually unemployed. Many of their homes have suffered from direct damage by military action and neglect. Returnees often arrive to find damaged homes and have no means to repair them.

In partnership with UNHCR, International Relief & Development (IRD) is repairing or rehabilitating hundreds of homes of vulnerable IDPs and refugees in Baghdad and Dyaila, areas with the highest numbers of returnees. The project pays particular attention to women and female-headed households. Other vulnerable groups taken into consideration included families with children under the age of 5 and those with elderly members. Poor living conditions are especially difficult for the very young and elderly persons, as they are more sensitive to the elements and to harsh living conditions and overcrowding. Improvements to living conditions greatly improve the integration of returnees and their ability to move towards recovering their overall standard of living. By building walls and foundations and installing plumbing and electricity, IRD is helping families reclaim a sense of normalcy.

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