Experts warn reintegration is complex in Iraq; urge jobs, services and donor support

Senate witnesses described reintegration in Iraq as a long-term, complex challenge that requires economic absorptive capacity, policy changes and donor coordination.

Shelly Culbertson told senators that host countries often cannot fully absorb large refugee or internally displaced populations without changes in labor policies and sustained funding. She said the Kurdistan region allows refugees to work but that its economy is constrained. Culbertson cited global studies showing that “on average, 10 years after the end of a conflict, only about 30% of refugees have returned,” and stressed that durable return requires housing, schools and jobs.

Senators noted Iraqi elections and a muted militia response to recent region-wide fighting as signs of shifting Iranian influence. Witnesses urged continued U.S. engagement in Iraq to support stabilization and to maintain a limited U.S. presence that can back Kurdish partners and counter Iranian proxy influence without provoking escalation.

On detention and camp populations, witnesses highlighted thousands of fighters and tens of thousands of family members in camps (e.g., Al Hol and Roj), and urged plans for reintegration, rehabilitation and long-term education for children held in those facilities to reduce future radicalization.