About the Situation
By the Numbers
More than 31,000,000 people live in Iraq
25% of the people in Iraq live below the poverty line
15% of the population is unemployed
(Sources: U.S. government)
Decades of political instability have affected Iraq’s economy, infrastructure, employment and social programs. According to the World Food Programme, the country’s educational programs and health care services have also suffered.
While some strides have been made in improving socio-economic issues, governmental analyses report that some 6.4 million Iraqis remain extremely vulnerable to food insecurity, and are relying on public assistance for their meals. Continuing violence in the region, joined with power outages, water shortages and rising food prices, exacerbate already-desperate living conditions for millions in Iraq.
How Islamic Relief is Helping
Islamic ReliefTM has been working in Iraq since 1997. In 2003, Islamic Relief Iraq opened in Baghdad for the maintenance and oversight of long-term programs. In times of emergency and turmoil, relief teams have been quick to get health kits to hospitals and health centers treating thousands of injured. Islamic Relief teams have also distributed food rations to help alleviate hunger during times of instability.
Here’s a breakdown of some programs Islamic Relief has supported in Iraq:
ORPHAN SUPPORT & SPONSORSHIP
On going
RAMADAN FOOD DISTRIBUTION
Seasonal
UDHIYAH/QURBANI DISTRIBUTION
Seasonal
Here are photos taken by Islamic Relief teams in the field in Iraq.
