Taking stock of progress in the implementation of the Regional Plan of Human Rights in Kurdistan Region one year after its launch

The Office of the Coordinator of International Advocacy (OCIA) in the Kurdistan Region held a one-day conference in Erbil to take stock of the progress in the implementing the Regional Plan of Human Rights one year after its approval by the Presidency of the KRG Council of Ministers and to identify the additional steps required to address persistent challenges in the coming months and years. In his opening address, the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, Mr. Masrour Barzani, stressed the importance of “working with international partners to ensure that Kurdistan Region is fully committed to international standards of human rights, including freedom of the press.”

Mr. Christian Ritscher, Special Adviser and Head of UNITAD, underlined the importance of the Regional Action plan for UNITAD’s work, in particular relating to administration of justice matters and procedural safeguards.

In opening remarks on behalf of the UN Iraq SRSG, Chief of UNAMI’s Human Rights Office Ms. Danielle Bell commended the efforts of the Kurdistan Regional Government in recognizing the importance of human rights and freedoms and the role they play in peace and development. In the past year, collective efforts have focused upon addressing issues related to freedom of expression, promoting human rights in the administration of justice, accountability and ending violence against women. 

She added that “One year into the implementation of the Action Plan, I reiterate the unwavering support of UNAMI’s Human Rights Office towards its continued implementation. We encourage all relevant stakeholders to join efforts, to identify areas of shared interest, and to collectively support the Action Plan’s implementation in a coordinated manner.”

Also addressing the conference, the Head of the Iraq Office of UNODC, Mr. Ali Elbereir, underlined UNODC’s support to the implementation of the Action Plan, while highlighting that “improving policing and investigations is key to reaching SDG Goal 16 and to ensure that we leave no one behind by ensuring access to justice and protection of human rights for all.”

The conference also was attended by a Representative of the Iraqi Prime Minister, KRG's Deputy Prime Minister, ministers, regional and federal government officials, the Head of the Judicial Council, diplomats, UN officials, and a number of NGO directors.