Page 1 — Introduction and Context 
Years of war, terrorism, and sectarian violence have left millions of Iraqis displaced within their own country and beyond. Families uprooted from their homes struggle to find safety, stability, and dignity in the aftermath of conflict. 

Despite the formal defeat of ISIS, many areas remain insecure, and families face barriers to returning home due to destroyed infrastructure, militia control, and lack of basic services. For countless Iraqis, safe refuge remains out of reach. 

Page 2 — Historical and Political Background 
Iraq’s cycles of displacement date back to decades of conflict, beginning with Saddam Hussein’s rule, wars with neighbouring states, and internal repression. The 2003 invasion and subsequent sectarian violence created new waves of refugees. 

The rise of ISIS in 2014 was particularly devastating. The group’s atrocities, including massacres and enslavement, forced millions of Iraqis to flee. Although ISIS lost its territory, displacement has persisted due to instability, destroyed towns, and ethnic and sectarian divisions. 

Page 3 — Daily Struggles of Displaced Families 
Displaced Iraqi families endure immense challenges: 

- Overcrowded camps: inadequate shelter, sanitation, and healthcare. 
- Economic hardship: limited opportunities for employment and education. 
- Family separation: relatives scattered across regions or borders. 
- Insecurity: risk of violence in return areas controlled by militias. 
- Social stigma: displaced persons often marginalised in host communities. 

These struggles prolong suffering and prevent families from rebuilding their lives. 

Page 4 — Consequences for Citizens and Society 
For families, displacement means a loss of home, identity, and stability. Children are especially vulnerable, growing up without education or in precarious conditions that impact their long-term development. 

For Iraqi society, the displacement crisis undermines social cohesion and hinders reconstruction. Large populations in camps drain humanitarian resources, while the lack of reintegration efforts fuels instability. The international community also bears the strain, as Iraqi refugees seek asylum abroad. 

Page 5 — Solutions and Conclusion 
Addressing Iraq’s displacement crisis requires urgent, coordinated action. 

Key steps include: 
- Reconstruction: rebuild homes, schools, and infrastructure in affected areas. 
- Security guarantees: ensure safe returns free from militia intimidation. 
- Humanitarian support: improve conditions in camps and host communities. 
- Education and employment: create opportunities for displaced families to rebuild lives. 
- International cooperation: expand asylum and resettlement options for refugees. 

Until such measures are implemented, Iraqi families will remain trapped in cycles of displacement, struggling to find the safe refuge they desperately need.