Apply now: Building Peace and Stability in Iraq Programme

Deadline: 22-Dec-2025

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is inviting applications for its Building Peace and Stability in Iraq (BPSI) Programme to support the reintegration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees from Northeast Syria. The programme focuses on peacebuilding, social cohesion, livelihoods, access to justice, and empowerment, with a total funding of up to £1.6 million for FY 2026/27. Eligible organisations with experience in durable solutions and local NGO capacity-building can apply to manage the IRC-led component and its downstream partners.

Programme Overview

The BPSI Programme aims to:

• Support reintegration of IDPs and returnees from Northeast Syria in Iraq.

• Promote peace, stability, and social cohesion in communities affected by displacement.

• Enhance livelihoods, legal access, and durable solutions for displaced populations.

• Address cross-cutting issues including climate change, disabilities, women and girls’ empowerment, and accountability.

Key Components

IRC-led Component

• Engages community groups to identify conflict drivers.

• Promotes dialogue, social cohesion, and reduces discrimination.

• Supports access to justice and durable solutions for displaced persons.

• Strengthens policy advocacy and institutional reforms.

IOM Component

• Reassesses displacement-affected areas using community-informed approaches.

• Implements quick impact projects to improve housing, livelihoods, and social cohesion.

• Builds evidence and strengthens civil society capacity for inclusive dialogue.

• Addresses barriers to durable solutions for affected populations.

Funding Details

• Total funding for FY 2026/27: up to £1.6 million.

• Up to 55% allocated for lead organisation support and direct programme delivery.

• Remaining funding allocated to local downstream NGO partners.

• Potential extension: up to two additional years, subject to budget availability.

Who is Eligible?

Applicants must:

• Be legally registered in Iraq.

• Be international not-for-profit organisations.

• Have proven experience managing local NGO partners.

• Demonstrate a strong track record in durable solutions and reintegration programming for IDPs and returnees from Northeast Syria.

• Be willing to comply with FCDO grant accountability, due diligence, and reporting requirements.

• Have capacity to maintain existing partnerships while proposing new approaches or partnerships as needed.

How to Apply

1. Prepare Proposal: Follow the provided technical and financial templates.

2. Submit Application: Proposals are due by midnight Iraq time on 22 December 2025.

3. Assessment and Due Diligence: FCDO will conduct a structured assessment, including partner discussions and due diligence checks.

4. Grant Finalisation: Selected organisations will finalise accountable grant agreements before the project start date of 22 March 2026.

Application Requirements

• Detailed technical and financial proposals aligned with programme objectives.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple downstream NGO partners.

• Evidence of past experience in reintegration, durable solutions, and capacity building.

• Commitment to quarterly narrative, financial, and risk reporting, including consolidated updates on partner progress.

Common Mistakes and Tips

• Incomplete applications: Ensure all technical and financial templates are fully completed.

• Lack of experience: Clearly demonstrate prior work in reintegration programming and local NGO management.

• Non-compliance: Adhere strictly to FCDO reporting and accountability requirements.

• Partnership oversight: Show understanding of existing IRC and NGO partnerships and plans for continuity or improvement.

FAQ

1. Who can apply? International not-for-profit organisations legally registered in Iraq with relevant experience.

2. What is the total funding available? Up to £1.6 million for FY 2026/27.

3. Can local NGOs apply directly? No, applications must be from international organisations managing local NGO partners.

4. What is the project start date? 22 March 2026.

5. Is the grant renewable? Potentially for up to two additional years, depending on budget allocation.

6. What sectors does the programme cover? Peacebuilding, social cohesion, livelihoods, access to justice, empowerment, climate change, and disability inclusion.

7. What reporting is required? Quarterly narrative, financial, and risk reporting, including consolidated updates on downstream partners.

Conclusion

The FCDO Building Peace and Stability in Iraq Programme provides a critical opportunity for experienced international organisations to lead reintegration and peacebuilding efforts for IDPs and returnees from Northeast Syria. Through structured partnerships, community engagement, and durable solutions, the programme aims to strengthen social cohesion, empower vulnerable groups, and promote long-term stability in affected regions.

For more information, visit GOV.UK.