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.