Returns to Iraq
On 11 June 2003, KHRP participated in a consultation meeting with the UK Home Office to discuss the return of Kurdish and Iraqi nationals to Iraq. The purpose of the meeting was to exchange views and to explore ways in which Kurdish and Iraqi communities could contribute to the reconstruction of Iraq. The meeting was also attended by representatives of the Foreign Office, UNHCR, Refugee Council and Refugee Action.
On 30 May 2003, Home Secretary David Blunkett and European counterparts met with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees for discussions on the returns to Iraq programme. While currently focusing on voluntary returns, the Home Office estimates that a further 30,000 refugees (excluding dependents) could also be returned.
On 22 May 2003, KHRP also participated in a BBC panel discussion about voluntary returns to Iraq with guests including Robin Cook, former UK foreign secretary and leader of the House of Commons, and David Blunkett.
