International Development written question – answered at on 10 May 2007.
To ask the Secretary of State for International Development
(1) what assistance the UK is providing to (a) Syria and (b) Jordan for refugees who have fled sectarian violence in Iraq; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what steps the Government are taking to protect refugees who have fled sectarian violence in Iraq.
We are in close touch with our partners and agencies about the situation regarding displaced Iraqis inside Iraq and in the region.
In January, the UN High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) launched a $60 million appeal to address the influx of refugees into Iraq's neighbouring countries and the plight of displaced people inside Iraq (this is almost fully funded). The money will go towards the provision of basic services and protection for internally displaced Iraqis and refugees, registration, and needs assessments. DFID has contributed £1.5 million to this appeal, part of £310 million that we have spent on humanitarian assistance in 2007.
Inside Iraq, our support is providing urgently needed medical supplies, improved health facilities and restoring water and sanitation infrastructure.
In April, an international UNHCR conference in Geneva was successful in drawing international attention to the plight of the displaced Iraqis inside Iraq and in the region, and recognising the burden this places on host communities and countries. The main outcome of the conference was the Government of Iraq's commitment to take the lead in providing support and security for its citizens, including for those who have fled the country. The conference also agreed a new UN strategic framework for humanitarian action in Iraq, which will coordinate UN action in support of the Iraqi Government's efforts.
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