UNHCR Strengthens Healthcare for Refugees and Host Communities in Iran with Critical Medical Supplies

Tehran – The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has formally handed over a substantial consignment of essential medical equipment and supplies to the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MoHME), as part of a USD 30 million multi-year initiative to support refugee-inclusive health policies in Iran.

These vital supplies include hundreds of centrifuges and microscopes for laboratories, over a million rapid test kits for communicable diseases, thermal foggers for disease vector control, power generators, and essential medicines. They will be distributed to health centres and hospitals across the country, with a focus on border regions and provinces hosting large numbers of displaced persons.

Inna Gladkova, Deputy Representative of UNHCR in Iran, lauded Iran’s commitment to inclusive health services: “For over four decades, Iran has ensured that millions of vulnerable individuals, including about 3.8 million displaced Afghans, have access to essential health services alongside the local population. This handover marks another critical step in the ongoing collaboration between UNHCR, the National Organization for Migration, and the Ministry of Health. It also represents our shared international responsibility to enhance the quality of healthcare services for both refugees and communities that generously host them, an effort that is crucial in ensuring the well-being of all.”

These items are part of a USD 30 million multi-year initiative to support refugee-inclusive health policies in Iran. ©UNHCR/Siavash Maghsoudi

The donated medical supplies will bolster Iran’s healthcare capacity in managing critical health challenges, including communicable diseases that are a public health concern and affect people, regardless of their nationality or documentation situation. The tests and treatment kits provided will help the fight against tuberculosis, malaria, and dengue fever, among others. Moreover, they will strengthen Iran’s ongoing effort and regional leadership to eradicate hepatitis B and C.

This support is especially crucial in a context where Iran’s healthcare system is under pressure in a harsh economic context. Despite these challenges, Iran continues to showcase extraordinary hospitality, providing healthcare, education, and protection to millions of refugees and foreign nationals. However, the immense strain on the country’s resources calls for sustained international support.

UNHCR urges the international community to step up its support for Iran’s efforts, emphasizing that the scale of the refugee population requires additional resources and assistance to ensure the continued provision of essential services. UNHCR looks forward to continued collaboration with the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran and other key stakeholders to ensure that refugees and host communities alike can access the healthcare they deserve.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Rached Cherif – Associate Communication Officer – UNHCR Iran

[email protected]

Mahta Mohegh – Assistant Reporting Officer – UNHCR Iran

[email protected]