United Nations in Iraq

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Iraq:

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Publication

10 July 2024

United Nations in Iraq | Annual Results Report 2023

The United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Iraq, composed of 23 UN Agencies, Funds and Specialized Programmes, is dedicated to supporting Iraq’s journey towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Guided by the principle of Leaving No One Behind, the UNCT, under the leadership of the Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, employs evidence-based actions and specialized expertise to enhance the lives and livelihoods of all Iraqis, with a particular focus on the most vulnerable and marginalized communities.
The operational blueprint of the UNCT is encapsulated in the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2020–2024, which lays out the shared development objectives of the UN in Iraq. This framework is pivotal, outlining five strategic priorities ranging from achieving social cohesion, protection and inclusion to promoting natural resource management and climate change resilience. The overall aim is to achieve inclusive and sustainable economic growth and efficient institutional services.
Integrating the humanitarian, development and peace nexus within its collective work, the UNCT is aligned with Iraq’s Vision 2030, the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Vision for the Future and the National Development Plan, among other strategic documents. This synergy ensures that the UN’s efforts are harmonized with national priorities and strategies, marking a transition from humanitarian assistance to sustainable development and peacebuilding, firmly rooted in the commitment to leave no one behind.

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17 October 2024

Message from SRSG Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan on the Kurdistan Regional Parliamentary Elections

Where the people of this Region will be going to the polls on Friday and Sunday to exercise their right to elect their representatives in the new regional parliament.It is a political representation of the people of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq for the coming four years.It will reinvigorate democracy and inject new ideas into its institutions that will address the people’s concerns.This is all too necessary. The Kurdistan Region has been without a parliament for some times. This election is long overdue.Elections are an important milestone in the Region’s journey. I visited the Kurdistan Region for the first time after assuming my position as Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations for Iraq and Head of UNAMI.The Kurdistan Region today is a different region from what it was decades ago.I was very impressed by the development and the progress that I have witnessed so far.I am certain many challenges might remain.However, Kurdistan is on the right path towards a better future.Now it is the opportunity to mark that path. The election campaign concluded this week. Rallies by political parties and candidates were overall peaceful. This is a true spirit of a democratic process.We encourage the nearly 3 million eligible voters in this part of Iraq, namely in Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Dohuk and Halabja to go out and vote.We cannot reiterate enough the importance of exercising this right, which so many fellow Kurds have paid the heavy price to ensure it is safeguarded for generations to come.We would like to thank the Independent High Electoral Commission for all the preparatory work to make this election a free, fair and transparent one.UNAMI is supporting IHEC through its electoral team’s technical expertise and advice.IHEC has put in place measures and mechanisms to address complaints and any potential problem.International and local partners are also participating in the observation process for the elections.And we look forward to successful Election Days on the 18th and 20th October. Make your voices heard and your opinions count. Vote!Thank you very much.

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20 November 2024

UN Iraq Special Representative commends population census in Iraq

The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan, commended today the conduct of the first population census in Iraq in 37 years, stressing its importance for future development plans and projects in the country.This came during a visit with His Excellency Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani to the Operations Center for the Population Census at the Ministry of Planning, where the Prime Minister and the SRSG were briefed in detail about the process today and tomorrow as well as the methods of data collection and updates. Present at the briefing was the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning, Dr. Mohammed Tamim.Dr. Al Hassan lauded the conduct of the process and the huge government efforts to make it a success. "This is a historic phase for Iraq. What we have witnessed today are important steps for the future of Iraq. This census is aimed towards development. The progress of states depends primarily on census. The professionalism we have seen today confirms confidence in the process and the seriousness in its implementation, with UNFPA’s technical cooperation."Dr. Al Hassan appreciated the efforts of staff working on the ground and UNFPA’s advice and technical assistance to make the process a success. He urged everyone to participate and cooperate for the benefit of Iraq and its people.“This census is to ensure rights, access to public services, the equitable distribution of resources among different regions, and planning based on scientific and modern criteria. On my behalf and on behalf of the United Nations, we congratulate you and wish you success for a better Iraq.”

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08 January 2025

Ending Protracted Displacement, Expediting Compensation to IDPs in Iraq

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

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31 December 2024

New Year's greeting message from the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq

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.

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18 December 2024

Remarks by Mr. Claudio Cordone Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General for Iraq For Political Affairs and Electoral Assistance On the occasion of World Arabic Language Day

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.

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18 December 2024

United Nations in Iraq celebrates World Arabic Language Day

On a crisp Wednesday mid-morning, United Nations staff in Baghdad joined today in a warm celebration to mark World Arabic Language Day - held annually on 18 December. Arabic, spoken by several hundred million people and one of six official United Nations languages since 1973, represents a pillar of cultural diversity in all its forms - from classical or dialectal, from poetry or prose, from song or act.Echoing these sentiments in his welcoming remarks, the Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq for Political Affairs and Electoral Assistance, Claudio Cordone, spoke in Arabic stressing how "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." As rich as the Arabic language is, such was the atmosphere at today's well organized and impressive event in the United Nations compound. With the aroma of freshly brewed Arabic coffee filtering through the cool air, and the taste of sweet and savoury delicacies, the crowd immersed themselves in intricate calligraphy script by Iraqi calligrapher Taha Bakr and enjoyed a traditional live music performance by a vibrant local group - the Sanjat Band, while avid bookworms browsed through the pages of Arabic publications on sale at the makeshift book stall. And, with the festive season upon us, several walked away with trinkets of Iraqi souvenirs which were also on sale at the craft stall.

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12 December 2024

Statement to the press by SRSG for Iraq and Head of UNAMI Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan

Our visit to Najaf to meet the Marjaiya, represented by His Eminence Ayatollah Sayyid Ali al-Sistani, is part of on-going and continuous engagement between the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) and relevant stakeholders and actors in Iraq.You are all aware of the high regard and respect that His Eminence Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani enjoys in the hearts of everyone, including the United Nations, and how deeply he cares about Iraq, its stability and distancing it from any tensions that could harm the country. This is in addition to his vision that he explained during our first meeting on the future of Iraq, encapsulated in the principles set out in the statement that was issued at the time. I informed His Eminence Sayyid Mohammed Rida Al-Sistani of the meetings conducted in the United Nations headquarters in New York and the deliberations held with the different members of the international community there.You are also aware that the situation in the region is critical, changes are fast-paced and the challenges are significant. The UN and its Secretary-General, whom I represent in this country, is striving to keep Iraq safe and out of harm’s way, away from crises or political tensions, in order to maintain the hard-won gains the country has achieved for its security and the stability that Iraq has recently been enjoying.Today, we also discussed with the Marjaiya, here in Najaf, the means, measures and steps to distance Iraq from any negative developments that do not serve the security, stability and future of Iraq. Let me be very frank, the situation in the region is difficult, fluid and fast paced. However, we have great confidence in the wisdom and ability of the leadership in Iraq to overcome the challenges of this period. There is direct co-ordination between UNAMI and the political leadership of Iraq, in particular His Excellency Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani. From the city of Najaf, we call on all political forces and groups in Iraq to put the interest of this country first, stressing that the security of Iraq and the Iraqi people is sacrosanct. The overarching goal is to maintain the security and stability of Iraq for all.I am full of hope and confidence in the ability of this country and the entities and actors in Iraq to face these challenges, give priority to the paramount interests, exercise wisdom and pursue efforts to chart a bright, hopeful future for all the people of this country, from all different affiliations.Iraq is in dire need of efforts at a thorough and accelerated pace to dispose of the legacies of the painful past, which requires bold and speedy decision-making. As we say, the sooner the better. We encourage the decision makers in this country to take the necessary, long-awaited decisions for reconciliation in this country.God willing, we will see and hear good news in the coming days, to strengthen, foster and consolidate the security and stability of this country and contribute to the development and improvement if its relations with neighboring, regional and international countries.Iraq should not be an arena for score-settling. This country has a trajectory of civilization to regain the stature it deserves.I discussed with His Eminence Sayyid Mohammed Rida the importance and necessity of providing the requisite guarantees to all groups in Syria, the need to avoid any acts of retaliation against anyone, security for all Syrians and accountability through independent and transparent judicial processes. All Syrians must be protected.We also stressed that Iraq is not to be used as an arena for settling scores on account of any external foreign actors.This is our message today with the Marjaiya. We thank His Excellency, the Governor, for his hospitality and generosity. We hope that this country focuses on its interests and gains. We have full confidence in this government and in the leaders of this country.

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Press Release

19 January 2025

Supporting Iraq in the registration of its nationals seeking voluntary repatriation from Al-Hol Camp

This equipment consists of two servers, 20 laptops, 20 desktops, 15 tablets, 15 portable printers, 10 fingerprint scanners, six cameras and other IT devices for efficient data management, for a total amount of ca. USD 200,000. Senior representatives from the Iraqi government, including the Office of the National Security Advisor, the Head of the European Union delegation to Iraq, the Head of the European Union Advisory Mission to Iraq, and the Head of the UNOCT office in Iraq, participated in the ceremony. The equipment was procured by the European Union – United Nations Global Terrorism Threats Facility, a joint initiative implemented by UNOCT in partnership with and thanks to funding from the European Union. The Facility has been working in coordination with the UNOCT Global Programme on Prosecution, Rehabilitation and Reintegration (PRR) to support the Iraqi national authorities responsible for managing the complex process of registration and screening Iraqi nationals seeking voluntary repatriation. This support seeks to foster effective and ethical practices, in compliance with international human-rights standards.In addition to the IT equipment, the Facility has provided since March 2024 advisory support and training sessions to relevant Iraqi officials for the development and management of a secure and functional registration database in line with good practices for the management and protection of sensitive personal data in accordance with privacy rights. Iraqi personnel also benefited from opportunities to enhance their trauma-informed, and ethical interviewing practices to effectively interact with volunteers for repatriation, and to maintain their own mental well-being in delivering on these challenging tasks.

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Press Release

15 January 2025

United Nations in Iraq launches its first “Youth Advisory Council”

The council is made up of 13 young leaders aged 17–24, selected through a rigorous and competitive process. It includes members from varied social, educational, and economic backgrounds, ensuring inclusivity and broad representation. “This Youth Advisory Council represents our commitment to amplify the voices of Iraqi youth, ensuring their creativity, energy and ideas contribute to Iraq’s sustainable development,” said Mr. Ghulam Isaczai, Deputy Special Representative for Iraq, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator. Speaking at the launch event, he added, “Young people deserve better opportunities and a stronger voice in decision-making. The Council is a chance for Iraqi youth to directly influence the work of the UN, ensuring our programs are inclusive, relevant, and effective.” The UNYAC aligns with the UN Youth Strategy 2030, which aims to engage young people as equal partners in peace, human rights, and sustainable development. Through this platform, young Iraqis will play a meaningful role in shaping policies, monitoring progress, and contributing to critical issues such as climate change, education, employment, governance and other issues affecting their daily lives. The event also featured a video message from Mr. Felipe Paullier, Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs, who underscored the significance of the newly established Youth Advisory Council. He hailed it as a transformative step toward amplifying youth participation in Iraq and reaffirmed his office's unwavering commitment to supporting the Council in its efforts.The establishment of UNYAC is a collaborative achievement made possible through the support of UN agencies and the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Together, these partners are working to create a space where youth can actively engage in shaping Iraq’s development agenda and contribute to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.The launch event, held at the UN Compound in Baghdad, featured an introduction to the UN Country Team, the UN system, capacity-building workshops, and the development of the Council’s work plan.

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Press Release

13 January 2025

Developing Tourism Enterprises in Kurdistan Region of Iraq

"The tourism sector holds immense potential for economic growth and sustainable development in the Kurdistan Region," said H.E. Mr. Qubad Talabani, Kurdistan Regional Government’s Deputy Prime Minister. "Through our partnership with UNDP and USAID, we have taken a significant step towards harnessing this potential by empowering our youth and equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in this sector," added Mr. Qubad Talabani. The training program, conducted across 9 locations in KRI including Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Dohuk, Halabja, Garmian, Soran, Rapareen, Zakho, and Akre, helped 170 female and youth participants access learning opportunities to improve their livelihoods. Sessions focused on enabling women and youth to create tourism handicraft products reflecting on Kurdistan culture and heritage. “This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to supporting inclusive and sustainable development in Iraq. By investing in the capacity building of women and youth, we are not only fostering economic empowerment, but also contributing to the overall advancement of the tourism sector in the KRI. This wouldn’t have been possible without the generous contribution of our steadfast partner, USAID," said Auke Lootsma, the Resident Representative of UNDP Iraq. "The successful completion of these trainings underscores the importance of partnerships in driving positive change. By working together, we can create opportunities for women and youth to play a transformative role in the tourism sector, ultimately contributing to job creation and economic diversification and prosperity in the KRI," said Ms. Erin Mone-Marquez, Mission Director, USAID Iraq. The program's emphasis on producing diverse tourism handicraft products, tailored to local market demands, reflects a holistic approach to strengthening the tourism product of KRI. Participants were trained on creating different tourism handicrafts made of Kurdish textiles, ceramic and pyrography art. Through these trainings, the KRG, UNDP, and USAID aim to enable women and youth to not only enter the tourism industry but also to establish their own micro-enterprises, thereby fostering sustainable livelihoods and contributing to the region's economic growth. For more information:Mohammed Al-Bahbahanee, UNDP Iraq, Communications Specialistmohammed.al-bahbahanee@undp.org

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