Iraq is still suffering the consequences of years of armed conflict. The country was hit hardest by the recent invasion of the self-proclaimed Islamic State, which forced millions of Iraqis to flee their homes. To this day, many people still do not have adequate shelter, access to essential services or a good source of income. We have been working in Iraq since 2015 and have gradually moved from providing immediate humanitarian assistance to more sustainable aid. We help people rebuild their livelihoods and create new jobs. We help people who have lost their homes to secure permanent shelter.

Restoring livelihoods

For most Iraqis who had to leave their homes, the return is very complicated because they lost their source of livelihood and often a roof over their heads during the conflict. We, therefore, support them in rebuilding their original businesses or starting new ones. We help farmers to rebuild their fields and farms and provide them with seeds, equipment and the necessary training. We also empower women to integrate into the economy.

MORE ABOUT OUR WORK IN IRAQ

May 26, 2025 News

I’m farming the land my grandfather and great-grandfather once worked on, says Peter, a farmer from Iraq

Peter is a farmer from the town of Karamles in northern Iraq. His farm is well known across the region – he’s called the Onion King, as his harvest is sought after not only by locals, but by people from far and wide. Farming runs deep in his family’s history. “For more than 150 years, my family has been connected to farming. My grandfather, great-grandfather, father – and now me,” Peter says. Caritas Czech Republic helped him adapt his farming to the challenges of climate change. 

May 8, 2025 News

I want to open a workshop and name it after my son, says Najlaa from Iraq, a seamstress finding new hope after tragic loss

Najlaa lives in Karakosh, a town in northern Iraq. She is 50 years old, works as a seamstress, and her story is one of grief, faith, and quiet determination. In 2023, she lost her son in a car accident. Since then, she has been dreaming of opening her own sewing workshop – and naming it in his memory. 

May 1, 2025 News

At 23 years old, Martin from Iraq is the sole provider for his entire family. Caritas Czech Republic helped him open a clothing store

Martin is a successful young entrepreneur; with the help of Caritas Czech Republic, he opened his own clothing store in Karakosh, Iraq. He moved to the city after its liberation from ISIS. Through his work, he earns a living not only for himself but also for his father and two brothers with disabilities. 

April 24, 2025 News

Farming is my whole life, says 82-year-old Iraqi farmer Corgis

In the Iraqi town of Bartella, 82-year-old farmer Corgis has witnessed decades of change. But nothing has challenged his livelihood quite like the effects of climate change. With support from Caritas Czech Republic, he is learning how to adapt and continue farming despite the unpredictable weather.