Mr Smith’s Office: Courtney Hoogen 02 6277 7500 or 0488 244 901
Departmental : (02) 6261 1555
MEDIA RELEASE
Stephen Smith MP
Minister for Foreign Affairs
M E D I A R E L E A S E
FA180 19 December 2008
AUSTRALIA ASSISTS VICTIMS OF SECTARIAN VIOLENCE IN
NORTHERN IRAQ
The Australian Government has continuing concerns about the persecution of Christian and
other minority groups in Northern Iraq and will provide $1 million to assist Iraqis in Ninewa
Province, Northern Iraq, who have been the victims of recent outbreaks of sectarian violence.
Through our Embassy in Baghdad, the Government has been active in drawing to the Iraqi
Government’s attention the Australian Government’s concerns about the persecution of
Christians and other minorities.
Australia condemns all incidences of human rights violations against religious minorities.
Despite significant improvements in the security situation in Iraq, there are still instances of
sectarian violence that are causing the displacement of families and communities.
Australia’s contribution of $1 million in humanitarian assistance will be provided through the
Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International
Medical Corps (IMC).
It will fund emergency provisions, medical support, reconstruction efforts and the tracking of
families who have fled into neighbouring countries.
This funding brings the total humanitarian assistance provided by the Australian Government to
Ninewa Province to $3 million.
Australia is already providing $2 million through the IMC to assist Iraqis in Ninewa Province
who have suffered from violence. This funding is going towards emergency medical training,
women’s centres and mental health services for primary school age children.
Funding for assistance to Ninewa Province is part of the Australian Government’s programme
of humanitarian assistance and reconstruction in Iraq, announced in the 2008-09 Budget, which
totals $140 million over three years.
NEWS 
