Iraq and UN discuss the formation of Environment and Climate Change Advisory Group to tackle pollution and Sustainability Challenges

Baghdad, 11 March 2025 - The Iraqi Ministry of Environment and the United Nations discussed the formation of the Environment and Climate Change Advisory Group to address pressing environmental challenges, including air pollution in major Iraqi cities. The Advisory Group will serve as a platform for coordinating national and international efforts, identifying environmental priorities, and enhancing global partnerships. 

The discussions took place during a meeting yesterday between the Minister of Environment, Dr. Hallo Al-Askari, and the Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq, Ghulam Isaczai. The meeting was attended by representatives from various UN organizations, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Food Programme (WFP), as well as a representative from the World Bank and other senior officials from the Ministry of Environment.

The Environment and Climate Change Advisory Group will include national international experts, academics from Iraqi universities and research institutes, youth representatives, as well as representatives from the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Environment, and other relevant institutions from both the public and private sectors.