Sustaining UNITAD’s Witness Protection and Support Efforts in Iraq

Through a series of capacity-building initiatives, UNITAD has also contributed to strengthen Iraq’s capacity to protect and support witnesses, ensuring that these critical efforts will continue to benefit the country long after UNITAD’s mandate concludes on 17 September 2024.Key achievements include the enhancement of national mental health and protection practitioners' skills through targeted capacity-building programs, which have significantly bolstered Iraq’s ability to manage the psychosocial needs of witnesses.

In particular, from January to August 2024, UNITAD’s WPSU conducted 12 training courses, spanning 31 days and reaching 155 participants. These sessions, tailored to the specific needs of service providers, took place in key governorates such as Baghdad, Ninawa, Dohuk, Erbil, and Sulaymaniyah. These trainings ensured that 18 partners are now equipped to provide essential services to witnesses.

Partnerships with local authorities, national institutions, and both national and international civil society organizations have been central to UNITAD’s approach. A notable achievement has been the development of a close working relationship with the Iraq Witness Protection Unit (IWPU). UNITAD’s WPSU delivered a bespoke training package to 11 members of the newly established IWPU in Baghdad, focusing on both protection skills and coping mechanisms for survivors. This training was reinforced by a refresher course in July 2024, ensuring that the skills and knowledge gained were retained and effectively applied. The Team also extended similar support and training to the competent authorities in the Kurdistan Region.

UNITAD’s capacity-building efforts intend to ensure the sustainability in Iraq of the Team’s work after the conclusion of its mandate so that witnesses are protected, and psychosocial concerns are addressed.