Chaldean Archdiocese of Erbil launches incentive initiative to bolster Christian presence in Iraq

ANKAWA, Iraq — In the wake of a significant decline in the Christian population in Iraq, particularly among Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian communities, due to ongoing instability, security concerns, and limited employment opportunities, the Chaldean Archdiocese of Erbil announced an initiative aimed at encouraging Chaldean–Syriac–Assyrian families to remain rooted in Beth Nahrin (Mesopotamia) and fortify their presence in Iraq.

This groundbreaking initiative, known as the “Blessed Family Grant”, is designed to motivate families to expand and nurture their households.

Under the grant, the Archdiocese outlined several key benefits:

• Families welcoming their fourth or fifth newborn will receive complimentary medical care for both the child and the mother during pregnancy. This service will be extended at the private Meriamana Hospital, along with coverage for childbirth expenses.
• Children born under this initiative will receive comprehensive support throughout their educational journey within the Archdiocese’s schools, beginning from nursery age until they complete the 12th grade.
• Additionally, these children will be eligible for financial assistance to pursue higher education at the Catholic University.