The Kurdistan Region of Iraq has made a significant decision to suspend the issuance of entry visas for Syrian citizens, sparking humanitarian concerns over the abrupt halt to a longstanding practice of providing refuge and opportunities for Syrians seeking a better life within its borders.
This decision, reportedly made at the request of the federal government in Baghdad, comes amid broader efforts to regulate foreign labor in Iraq. With work visa issuance for Syrians already suspended two months prior, this latest development further restricts their ability to enter the Kurdistan Region, where many seek employment and refuge.
According to security sources in Erbil, the Iraqi government’s aim is to regulate foreign labor, particularly targeting the prevalence of undocumented Syrian workers in Iraqi cities. Measures such as prohibiting work and tourism visas for young adults aged 18 to 40 aim to curb illegal migration from the region’s cities to other Iraqi provinces for work.
While some may view this decision as a security measure, others, like activist Aso Hawramani from the Kurdistan Region, condemn it as “inhumane.” Highlighting the plight of Syrians seeking medical treatment and protection under the United Nations, Hawramani paints a picture of vulnerability and desperation among those affected.
Previously, the Kurdistan Region of Iraq facilitated visa issuance for Syrians for a fee of up to US$170, allowing residency for varying periods. However, Iraqi authorities do not recognize this residency, leading to arrests for those leaving the region for other Iraqi cities.
Tens of thousands of Syrians reside in the Kurdistan Region, with many working in various professions and others residing in refugee camps. A survey conducted by the United Nations Refugee Agency indicated that over 92% of Syrians in Iraq expressed a reluctance to return to their country, underscoring the ongoing need for protection and support in their host countries.
The situation in Syria remains dire, with 13 years of relentless conflict and severe economic downturns contributing to widespread displacement. Millions of Syrians have sought refuge in neighboring countries, including Iraq, Turkey, and various European and Arab nations, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and support.
