Remarks of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan, during Iraq Energy Conference – Baghdad, 28 January 2025 , filtered_html

Tackling low registration and disbursement rates for compensation services for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Iraq, the Ministry of Migration and Displaced (MoMD) has pledged to speed up the disbursement process for families whose homes were destroyed nearly a decade ago during the conflict with Daesh. This commitment, aimed at overcoming a key obstacle to durable solutions for displaced populations, was endorsed during the first Steering Committee meeting held in December 2024, for the project on “Strengthening Data Systems to Improve the Management of Internally Displaced Persons Referral Systems,” jointly implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and UN-Habitat in Iraq.Supported by the Internal Displacement Solutions Fund, the project proposes solutions to key bottlenecks that have hindered the compensation process. Central to these challenges are gaps in data systems and delays in disbursement, which severely affect vulnerable groups, such as female-headed households, persons with disabilities, unaccompanied minors, and the elderly. Key Challenges IdentifiedDuring the Steering Committee meeting, participants discussed challenges identified in an initial assessment conducted by UN-Habitat. The assessment involved 24 directors from Iraq’s Central Compensation Committees and judges from subcommittees, focusing on displacement-prone areas like Anbar, Salah al-Din, Diyala, Kirkuk, and Ninewa. Key issues included tight submission deadlines, lack of staff capacity, and difficulties in verifying claimant documentation. Many displaced families lost civil and property documents while fleeing conflict, making it harder for them to prove their claims.One of the primary solutions recommended for these challenges is the creation of an integrated and centralized database aligned with international standards. “The lack of an integrated database and standardized procedures has made it difficult to efficiently manage compensation claims,” said Mr. Ammar Ali Jum’ah, Director General of the Information Department at MoMD. “This database aligned with international standards will ensure that the most vulnerable families are prioritized, facilitating their reintegration and stability.”Tailored Capacity BuildingThe project will also enhance government efficiency through targeted capacity building. Results from an initial assessment of data systems and capacity gaps, conducted by IOM in collaboration with MoMD and the Joint Crisis Coordination Center (JCCC), highlighted the need for developing an automated reporting tool for MoMD, and tailored training program for JCCC staff. Set to run from January to May 2025, this training will cover data management, geospatial analysis, and the use of visualization tools to support more efficient compensation processing.Improving the Compensation ProcessFollowing the Steering Committee meeting, a workshop was also held on December 2024, where representatives and judges from both central and subcommittees participated in discussions about improving the compensation process. Key recommendations included amending the compensation law to be more agile, re-establishing connections between subcommittees and the central committee, and integrating e-governance systems to streamline operations.Through this project, the Government of Iraq will overcome technical barriers, ensuring that displaced individuals can access the compensation they need to restore their homes and livelihoods. Aligned with Iraq's Durable Solutions Roadmap, the project will bridge critical gaps in documentation and compensation, ensuring that individuals without proper identification are not excluded from receiving essential support. By enhancing data management and strengthening referral mechanisms, the project will also facilitate evidence-based policymaking, improve transparency, and ensure more effective resource allocation for property compensations.With the anticipated improvements in data systems and governance, displaced people will have faster and more efficient access to compensation for damaged property. This will enable them to return to their homes and rebuild their lives, furthering Iraq’s long-term goals of achieving durable solutions for displacement and promoting sustainable development. Ultimately, IOM and UN-Habitat are supporting Iraq’s efforts to create a stable and peaceful future for its people and advance towards the end of protracted displacement.  For additional information, please contact: Marcus Tudehope | UN-Habitat Iraq Project Manager email: marcus.tudehope@un.orgAna Paes | UN-Habitat Iraq Communication Officeremail: ana.paes@un.orgMohammed Natheer| IOM Displacement Tracking Matrix Operations Officer Email: mnatheer@iom.int Deepika Nath | IOM Iraq Media and Communications OfficerEmail: dnath@iom.int , filtered_html

As we approach the end of one year and the beginning of another, I extend to you all my sincere congratulations on the occasion of the New Year, wishing you a year of hope for an Iraq full of security, stability and prosperity, a year that brings greater opportunities and a better life for every Iraqi.I also congratulate the Iraqi people and the Government of Iraq on these achievements made in 2024. We have witnessed practical and tangible steps towards development and improving infrastructure, which reflects the strong will and ambition of the government of Mr. Mohammed Shiaa Al-Sudani to improve the lives of Iraqis. Indeed, there is still great hope for the Iraqis and the Iraqi government to achieve the intended and set goals and objectives, and we have great confidence in the ability of this country, its institutions and the Iraqi people to draw a better future that all the people of Iraq, regardless of their components and affiliations, will be proud of.In this context, we call on the Iraqi government to continue working with sincerity and team spirit to improve services throughout Iraq according to the best standards and in a way that satisfies the people of this country, stressing the importance of credibility and integrity and drawing a better future.We also hope to solve the problem of internally displaced persons and end their suffering in accordance with international standards and regulations, while providing the necessary support for their safe return and dignified reintegration into their communities.I have no doubt in Iraq's ability to overcome challenges and restore this ancient country's regional and international standing and move forward with steady and confident steps to meet the legitimate aspirations and ambitions of all the people of Iraq.I conclude this message by extending my warmest congratulations and blessings to you on the occasion of the New Year, and at the same time emphasizing the role of the United Nations in supporting you, the people and youth of Iraq, the people of Iraq, and the government of Iraq in all that you aspire to towards a prosperous future.Greetings to you and a happy new year to everyone., filtered_html

Every year, the United Nations celebrates this day on the eighteenth of December, the date on which the United Nations General Assembly resolution was issued in 1973 to include Arabic among the six official languages in which the United Nations operates.As the UN Secretary-General previously stated in his message on the occasion of Arabic Language Day, “In the United Nations, the Arabic language contributes daily to harmonious communication among peoples and nations, moving towards a multilingual and inclusive organization.”Arabic is one of the oldest languages in history. It is one of the most widely spoken languages. Hundreds of millions of the world's population speak the language, in many different dialects, from Mauritania to the Arabian Peninsula, from Lebanon on the Mediterranean Sea to Somalia on the Indian Ocean.The Arabic language is not only a language, but also a strong pillar of human civilization, connecting peoples through literature, poetry and music. Throughout the ages, the Arabic language has remained the language of science, intellect, innovations and discoveries in many fields. Classical Greek and Roman works of science, medicine and philosophy came to Europe through Arabic translations. Of course, Arabic is the language of the Holy Quran.Among the arts that characterize the Arabic language is Arabic calligraphy, which flourished centuries ago here in Iraq and other countries. It was included by UNESCO in its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2021. Today, we have one of these artists to show us this fine art.Unfortunately, the modern world is witnessing a decline in the use of the Arabic language. Therefore, it is extremely important to urge young people and future generations to continue to learn and use the Arabic language to preserve this rich cultural and historical heritage.Allow me to thank my colleagues in the translation team in UNAMI for their continued efforts and contributions to the work of the mission in Iraq.In conclusion, I hope that you all enjoy this celebration that expresses our pride in the Arabic language and culture and our gratitude for Iraq. Thank you., filtered_html