Reintegration in northern Iraq: the time is now for Europe to act

Abstract

To prepare the ground for the safe return and reintegration of dispersed population groups, it is necessary to solve the conflict between the government of Iraq and the government of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq about Constitutional Article 140. The ministries of foreign affairs of the European Union member states should intensify the political dialogue with both sides to find a durable agreement and, in parallel, offer advice on reforms to increase civilian oversight of the security forces. As Iraq is no longer considered an emergency country, donors, including the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), can gradually shift the emphasis of bilateral development aid towards the export of expertise. German advice in e-government and administrative set-up can contribute to reducing corruption and developing the basis for decentralisation (implementing Law 21). Effective and good governance is at the root to legally clarify property and land disputes many returning Iraqis are struggling with. A regular supply of basic services and the provision of infrastructure are prerequisites for the return and reintegration of displaced people. Taking care of the needs of internally displaced persons (IDPs) can be closely linked with livelihood support and compensation in the framework of long-term reconciliation and peacebuilding measures adjusted to varying local contexts. Together with European donors, the BMZ should engage in bilateral dialogues with the government of Iraq to facilitate the access of NGOs experienced in setting up these processes. German and European partners in development cooperation should support the economic reform envisaged by the government of Iraq. Given the long-standing dominance of the public sector, private sector development should go hand in hand with a gradual re-orientation of the public sector towards providing infrastructure and services for businesses and households. This dual focus will benefit returnees and receiving communities in the long run.