Meet Aree: Supporting Return and Reintegration Efforts in Iraq

We are pleased to introduce Aree, GCERF’s National Adviser in Iraq. He is a dedicated advocate for community resilience, return, and reintegration initiatives that support sustainable peace.

At GCERF, Aree has strengthened return and reintegration efforts by embedding robust monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) systems into programme design and implementation. He brings nearly a decade of experience in monitoring, evaluation, and programme management with leading humanitarian organisations, providing deep technical expertise and insight into Iraq’s complex context.

Prior to joining GCERF, Aree held key roles with the International Organization for Migration, Human Appeal, and UNFPA, supporting programmes in peacebuilding, prevention of violent extremism, social cohesion, and livelihoods across the country. He has also collaborated with major international media outlets – including The Telegraph, The Guardian, The New York Times, Al Jazeera, and RAI – to provide expert insights on the conflict with ISIS and its impact on Iraqi communities.

Through his work, Aree ensures that GCERF-supported programmes are contextually relevant, locally led, and impactful, helping communities in Iraq rebuild, reintegrate, and strengthen resilience against violent extremism.