Due to massive cuts in US international aid on 24 January 2025, JRS programmes supporting vulnerable communities in northern Iraq were forced to shut down. “This was a very painful decision, and most painful for the thousands of people who were welcomed by JRS in our centres. Humanitarian funding has real impacts and is necessary if we are to build community for a more peaceful, reconciled world,” said Fr. Daniel Corrou SJ, JRS Middle East Director.

In Iraq, JRS has been playing a crucial role in addressing the human displacement crisis in Sharya, Duhok Governorate, Erbil, Qaraqosh and Sinuni, Ninewa Governorate.

In Duhok, where displacement has been ongoing since 2014, JRS has prioritised support for survivors of the 2014 Yezidi genocide. Services included home visits, education, community training, psychosocial care, specialised Mental Health and Psychosocial Support services.

In Qaraqosh and Sinuni, JRS has been providing essential psychosocial support and protection for returnees and Internally Displaced People (IDPs) grappling with severe distress from the ISIS occupation.

Halting this support would cause serious harm to those we serve. As they remain steadfast in rebuilding their lives in such a fragile situation, they should not be forgotten.