Iraqi dentists urged home

The Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki has issued a statement calling upon the country’s doctors and dentists to return home to help rebuild the country’s healthcare services.

In a document released to the press, al-Maliki said Iraq's improved security situation means it is now safe for exiled citizens to return.

"I urge expatriate Iraqis to return, especially doctors and other professionals, after the improvement in security and the success achieved by our armed forces in enforcing the law," he said.

Thousands of doctors, dentists and professors were among the four million Iraqis that fled the country at the start of the US-led invasion in 2003. Around half have been accepted by neighbouring countries such as Jordan and Syria.

The exodus has been further exacerbated by widespread sectarian violence, deliberately targeting professionals who are seen as being more affluent that most Iraqis.

Now, al-Maliki claims expatriate Iraqis have a responsibility to return and help improve the country, as the improved security situation has started to "tempt international companies to seek work contracts in Iraq."

Dr Rafi Aljobory, president of the Iraqi Dental Association, is hopeful safety improvements will help tempt dentists home. He estimates the country lost 50% of its dentists following the invasion.

"It doesn't happen overnight, but I hope the gloomy times are over," he said. "I see change. Previously there was only a tunnel, but now there is light."

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