Mercy Hands Launches Strategic Initiative to Address Climate-Induced Migration and Social Cohesion

Iraq – May 2025

As climate change continues to reshape lives and livelihoods across Iraq, Mercy Hands for Humanitarian Aid has launched the first phase of its new initiative:“Strengthening Infrastructures for Peace (i4P),” in partnership with the Berghof Foundation and GIST, and funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This month-long initiative focuses on the human dimension of climate-induced migration—particularly its impact on social ties, gender roles, and psychological well-being invulnerable communities.

Field-Based Activities

The project kicked off with a series of Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) in Kalar, Sulaymaniyah, where affected farmers, local officials, NGO staff, environmental activists, and community leaders gathered to share their experiences and challenges. Their voices—marked by both resilience and concern—painted a vivid picture of life under growing environmental pressures.

To further understand gaps in policy and support, Key Informant Interviews were conducted with specialists and government representatives in Nineveh, Kirkuk, Sulaymaniyah, and Diyala. Meanwhile, a joint coordination meeting in a formal conference setting brought together stakeholders to align efforts and strategies.

Project Objectives

• Collect gender-disaggregated data to understand how climate change and displacement affect different social groups.

• Explore the links between environmental stress and mental health challenges.

• Facilitate inclusive, community-level dialogue and mediation sessions, especially in Basra, using gender-sensitive approaches.

Key information interview in the field

Group discussion in Kalar , Sulaymaniyah

Key information interview during the i4P field research

A Vision for Impact

At its core, this initiative is about more than is about listening to the voices of those most affected, building trust, and laying the foundation for sustainable peace and resilient communities in the face of climate challenges.

“In the face of climate displacement, lasting peace begins with empowered communities.”