Iraq

The work of the FRRME in Iraq is two-fold; both political and humanitarian. Politically we have established relationships of trust with key figures on all sides and as the humanitarian needs have grown, the FRRME has responded.

The FRRME is actively promoting reconciliation initiatives between the various Shia and Sunni groups involved in the conflict.  Steeped in Iraqi culture and history, Canon Andrew White has been working in Iraq since 1998 and is seen by many Iraqis to be the only Westerner in Iraq to be trusted.

Unique and personal relationships with the key leaders of the Sunni, Shia, Christian, Yazidi, Mandean and other Iraqi communities enable the FRRME to work for peace in a way that very few can.

In 2004, the FRRME was deeply involved in promoting and executing the Baghdad Religious Accord which brought together in consensus all the key religious leadership.

The humanitarian aid in Iraq remains massive and the FRRME continues to seek ways in which to alleviate the hardships of the Iraqi people. Canon Andrew White, President of FRRME, helped set up the first bone marrow transplant center in Iraq.

In addition to basic humanitarian aid and relief, the FRRME has a long standing relationship with St. George’s Church, Baghdad. Ransacked and left in ruins for decades, the FRRME helped restore the shattered windows and destroyed interior.

After much work, electricity was restarted with aid of generators and St. George’s Church was reopened for worship in 1998.

As Anglican Chaplain to Iraq, Canon Andrew White oversees the spiritual and physical needs of the entire Anglican Community in Iraq including St. George’s and the various Coalition chapels within the International Zone.