UN report looks at migration flows between Iraq and Europe


A new report examining the migration flows between Iraq and Europe and the reasons behind it, has been released by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The findings revealed that the main reasons cited for emigration from Iraq were lack of security, perceived lack of equality and social justice and political instability.

Economic stability was considered secondary to security concerns.

Many of the participants selected a country of destination based on the presence of friends or relatives, or the ease of obtaining residency permits.

However, many migrants report that life in Europe had been idealized and that the reality was more difficult.

Nearly 85,000 Iraqis arrived to Greece by sea in the second half of 2015 alone, the IOM Iraq Chief of Mission noted.

Thomas Lothar Weiss said a deeper understanding of the dynamics and driving factors behind the decision to leave home is crucial to better address the needs of Iraqi migrants.

SOURCE: UN Radio