In 2017, the International Humanitarian Partnership (IHP) played a critical role in supporting humanitarian operations in Iraq following the conflict with ISIS. As many areas around Mosul were heavily impacted, with significant devastation and heightened humanitarian needs, the United Nations requested IHP’s assistance in establishing a humanitarian hub to provide overnight accommodation for personnel. This initiative helped address the significant travel challenges, as most humanitarian workers were based in Erbil, approximately 80 km from the affected areas. The four-hour round trip, exacerbated by security restrictions, severely limited operational efficiency.
In March 2017, IHP, along with the World Food Programme (WFP) and the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), conducted assessments to identify a suitable site for a temporary accommodation hub. After evaluating various options, a site in Adhbah, approximately 20 km from Mosul’s frontline, was selected. IHP provided refurbished caravans equipped with essential facilities, including showers, internet, and power, for up to nine guests. The hub, built with compliance to UN security standards, enabled UN staff to stay closer to operational sites, thus strengthening the humanitarian presence in Mosul.
The project was led by MSB (Sweden) and DEMA (Denmark) in partnership with WFP and supported by the governments of Sweden, Denmark, Luxembourg, and the Iraq Pooled Fund. The Adhbah hub significantly improved the coordination and delivery of aid to communities facing extreme humanitarian conditions in Mosul and surrounding areas.
Cover Photo Credit: UNICEF/Sparks
