IKEA to launch new line of rugs and textiles made by Syrian refugees

IKEA plans to introduce its a new line of rugs and textiles made by Syrian refugees under the new IKEA initiative where Syrian refugees in Jordan will be employed to make rugs and textiles. The project is expected to create 200 jobs for refugees in Jordan, most of them women.

IKEA is currently working with local women’s organizations to kick off the initiative. The retailer said that hours will be flexible to accommodate women caring for family members.

The rugs and textiles will be part of a limited-edition line and will be sold starting 2019 locally and mostly in the Middle East, both in Jordan and in other countries that trade with them. The company might also consider selling to other countries at a later date. The design is expected to be a mix between traditional Jordanian style and IKEA’s Scandinavian look.

This is just the latest move from IKEA to help refugees around the world. They have created flat-pack shelters for refugees around the world, which can be assembled on site without any additional tools.

On Monday, IKEA country manager Lars Petersson wrote in a letter to employees stating that they are committed to continuing to stand for the dignity and rights of everyone.

Tthe company would be offering free legal advice and mental health counseling to co-workers potentially affected by the President Trump’s immigration ban.

Jordan currently hosts over 650,000 Syrian refugees – 10 percent of the entire displaced population, said Amnesty International.