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Service for Foreign Policy Instruments
  • News article
  • 17 January 2025
  • Service for Foreign Policy Instruments
  • 1 min read

EU Enhances Iraq’s Capacity to Repatriate Nationals from Al-Hol Camp

The EU supports Iraq with equipment & training to manage safe, secure repatriation from Al-Hol Camp in Syria.

A formal handover ceremony was held on 16 January 2025 in Baghdad.
A formal handover ceremony was held on 16 January 2025 in Baghdad.

The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Iraq in addressing the humanitarian and security challenges posed by the Al-Hol Camp in Northeast Syria. Through the EU-UN Global Terrorism Threats Facility, the EU has provided essential equipment and training to assist Iraqi authorities in safely and securely managing the voluntary repatriation of adult Iraqi citizens.

Supporting Repatriation Efforts

The initiative, undertaken in collaboration with the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT)’s Global Programme on Prosecution, Rehabilitation and Reintegration (PRR), focuses on enhancing Iraq’s capacity to handle the complex registration and screening processes involved in repatriations. This includes equipping personnel with the skills and tools necessary to comply with international data protection and human rights standards.

Equipment Handover Ceremony

A formal handover ceremony was held on 16 January 2025 in Baghdad, attended by high-level representatives from Iraqi national services, including the Office of the National Security Advisor. The event also featured the Head of the EU Delegation to Iraq, the Head of the EU Advisory Mission to Iraq, and the Head of the UNOCT Office in Iraq.

The EU-funded equipment, valued at approximately EUR 194,400 (USD 200,000), includes:

  • 2 servers
  • 20 laptops
  • 20 desktops
  • 15 tablets
  • 15 portable printers
  • 10 fingerprint scanners
  • 6 cameras
  • Other specialised devices critical for efficient data management

This state-of-the-art equipment will significantly enhance the efficiency and security of the registration process for adults seeking repatriation.

Building Skills and Ensuring Compliance

Since March 2024, Iraqi government personnel have benefited from advisory support and training sessions designed to:

  • Develop and manage secure registration databases
  • Adhere to international standards for data access, programming, and disposal
  • Handle sensitive personal and biometric data with respect for privacy and protection rights

Participants also received training in trauma-informed and ethical interviewing practices, equipping them to interact effectively with volunteers for repatriation while safeguarding their own mental well-being.

Trauma session group
Participants receiving training to provide trauma-informed interviewing.

Promoting Ethical and Effective Practices

This EU-funded initiative underscores the importance of fostering ethical and effective practices in line with international human rights standards. By strengthening Iraq’s institutional capacity, the EU is contributing to a secure and sustainable approach to addressing the challenges associated with Al-Hol Camp and supporting Iraq’s efforts in repatriation.

Details

Publication date
17 January 2025
Author
Service for Foreign Policy Instruments