September 22, 2023
News
What is a typical day for a humanitarian aid worker in Iraq? What does she face, how does she help people in need, and what she believes is the most important thing in humanitarian work? Read our interview with our colleague Jelan Muhsin, who is helping displaced people in Iraq.
Why did you decide to become a humanitarian worker?
After graduating from university, I knew I wanted to work in the humanitarian sector and help people. I worked for local NGOs for a year, and then I started working for international organizations. The work gave me a new perspective about the world around me. I realise how difficult it is for some people to secure their basic needs.
How did you come to work at Caritas Czech Republic and what exactly do you do?
A few years ago, Caritas Czech Republic in Iraq was looking for an engineer for an already completed project to provide decent housing for people displaced by war. I responded to the job advertisement almost immediately. I studied engineering at school and had the experience Caritas Czech Republic required.
Our work is now gradually transforming from humanitarian aid to development cooperation, and my position has changed with it. I am currently the coordinator of the livelihood activities in the city of Duhok.
I have learned a lot in these few years working for Caritas Czech Republic, especially in terms of time management and cooperation others. Thanks to these skills, I have moved on not only professionally but also personally.
You are from Duhok yourself, right?
Yes, it is a very nice ancient city in the northern part of Iraqi Kurdistan. There are many citadels and temples that show the historical importance of this region. The city itself is surrounded by beautiful nature, there are mountains, rivers and beautiful valleys.
As a humanitarian worker, you are in direct contact with the people Caritas Czech Republic is helping. How important is it to have a good relationship with them?
Good relationships with people are very important in our profession. When people trust you, it is easier for you as an aid worker to understand their individual needs, priorities and concerns. At the same time, we are able to tailor our activities to make our assistance as effective as possible. If people feel comfortable with you and see that you are trying to help them, they are likely to give you honest feedback. This is very important to us because it helps us to improve.
We recently celebrated World Humanitarian Day. Is there anything you would like to say to your colleagues?
I really appreciate the work of humanitarian workers who contribute to making the world a better place, including for people in disadvantaged regions. Your dedication, compassion and commitment to helping people in need are an inspiration to us all.
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