Iraq (see also Philippines, Australia)

IDPs reach 2.77 million

The count of internally displaced Iraqis reached 2.77 million by the end of March and five years after the US-led invasion, according to the UNHCR. Displacement is continuing at a lower rate, partly because minorities sought refuge with their own kind and communities are becoming more homogenous. Over a million IDPs are still in need of food and shelter, while over 300,000 do not have access to clean water.

In related news, the US announced on 10 April that it will be able to accept 12,000 displaced Iraqi refugees by the end of September. The US still needs to admit about 9,373 refugees to reach the 12,000 mark in six months. 

Sources: AFP, “Over 2.77 million internally displaced,” Bahrain Tribune, 2 April 2008; AP, “US on target for admitting of Iraqi refugees,” Khaleej Times, 11 April 2008