The U.N. refugee agency launched an appeal on Tuesday for 261 million U.S. dollars to fund its operations this year on behalf of hundreds of thousands of Iraqis uprooted by conflict.
The appeal covers programs for many of the 2.2 million Iraqis displaced within Iraq, as well as the 2 million who have fled to other countries in the region, Ron Redmond, chief spokesman of the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), told a news briefing in Geneva.
Most of the refugees outside Iraq are in Syria and Jordan and are living in urban areas such as Damascus and Amman. "Many of them are running out of money and finding it increasingly difficult to get by," Redmond said.
In addition to direct assistance to some of the most vulnerable refugees, UNHCR is supporting efforts by governments in the region that are struggling to cope with the huge numbers of Iraqis who have strained local resources and infrastructure, including schools and health systems.
UNHCR has given health assistance for some 210,000 Iraqis staying in neighboring countries. It has also provided educational support in Syria, Jordan and other countries that have enabled 100,000 refugee children to attend school.
"Under the 2008 appeal, UNHCR has set a target of getting another 100,000 Iraqi refugee children into school, bringing the total to 200,000 by the end of the year," Redmond said.
Funds are also being allocated to cover some of the needs of up to 15,000 Iraqi refugee families who may decide to return home during this year.
Iraqi authorities say at least 30,000 families returned in late2007 to certain areas of the country, although UNHCR is unable to confirm that figure.
UNHCR said it cannot at this time promote or encourage the return of Iraqi refugees, citing continuing security concerns and other factors. The agency is ready, however, to support the Iraqi government in providing assistance to those who do decide to return.
Source:Xinhua
|
Comment
Tell A Friend
Print Format
Save Article