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:

Learn more

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.

1 of 5

Story

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.

1 of 5

Story

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.”

1 of 5

Story

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

1 of 5

Story

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.

1 of 5

Story

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.

1 of 5

Story

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.

1 of 5

Story

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.

1 of 5

View all

Press Release

12 January 2025

The first-ever integrated child benefit initiative for children and pregnant women launched in Muthanna Governorate

Muthanna, Iraq – 8 January 2025: UNICEF Iraq, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and the Ministry of Health, launched the country’s first Child Benefit initiative in the Muthanna Governorate. This effort will benefit 7,000 vulnerable children and expectant mothers and inform social safety net reforms led by the government. The initiative, funded by the European Union, is part of a broader effort by UNICEF, ILO, and WFP to support the Government of Iraq in reforming the social protection system and achieving human development outcomes throughout the lifecycle.The initiative was developed in collaboration with the Government of Iraq. It aligns with Iraq’s National Development Plan for 2024-2028, which aims to reform the social protection system, eliminate poverty, and deliver comprehensive health services to families. Iraq’s Social Service Workers will play a crucial role in the success of this pilot by connecting families to social care services to improve health outcomes.“The launch of the Cash Plus pilot programme in Muthanna is a crucial step towards supporting pregnant women and ensuring children’s well-being,” said Dr. Sanaa Al-Moussawi, Advisor to the Prime Minister on Social Protection and Disability Affairs. “With this initiative, we are laying the groundwork for an integrated social protection model which the Government could expand to all Iraqi provinces,” she added.“This project addresses immediate poverty and aims to tackle the underlying causes of child vulnerability by improving healthcare access and promoting healthy behaviours. The project reflects the Government of Iraq’s long-standing commitment to ensuring that every child is healthy and thriving,” said Dr.Khames Al Saad, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Health.“This programme represents a strategic step toward achieving social justice and supporting the most vulnerable groups in our society. Through this initiative, we aim to enhance national vaccination adherence, reflecting our commitment to improving the health of future generations and ensuring a dignified life for beneficiary families,” said Ahmed Al-Asadi, Minister of Labour and Social Affairs.The pilot project is launching in Muthanna, one of Iraq's poorest and most deprived governorates. Muthanna falls short in all aspects of children’s health indicators compared to the national average. More than 15 per cent of children in Muthanna are stunted. Similarly, immunisation rates among children are below 40 per cent, and only 18 per cent of women exclusively breastfeed. This project aims to address these critical issues by providing tailored support to pregnant women and children 0 to 2 years of age. This initiative is designed to meet the challenges faced by women and children in Muthanna and demonstrates the government’s dedication to empowering vulnerable families in Iraq and fostering comprehensive social development,” said Muhannad Al-Attabi, Governor of Muthanna.“The EU is committed to supporting the Government of Iraq in their effort to improve the social protection system. We all want to learn from this cash pilot project before rolling it out to other regions in the country,” said Steven De Vriendt, Programme Manager, The European Union Delegation to Iraq.The project envisions establishing a foundational model for a national child benefit integrating cash assistance with essential services throughout Iraq.“Investing in the health and well-being of children from the earliest stages of life is crucial for building a strong foundation for their future potential,” said Ken Legins, UNICEF Iraq Representative, a.i. “We are grateful to the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, the Ministry of Health, the European Union, the World Food Programme, the International Labour Organization, and all partners for their support,” he added.As Iraq transitions from conflict to becoming an upper-middle-income country, robust social protection systems are vital for empowering Iraqis with nation-building skills. This is especially pertinent for Iraq, where women and children constitute the majority of the population. For more information, kindly contact:Pravaran MahatCommunication SpecialistUNICEFTel: +964 783 3352 571Email: pmahat@unicef.org Zaid FahmiCommunication OfficerUNICEFTel: 07809126781Email: zfahmi@unicef.org

1 of 5

Press Release

30 December 2024

Statement for the Media by Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan, Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq and Head of UNAMI Baghdad, Abo Hanifa Holy Shrine, 29 December 2024

Today, we were honored first by visiting the shrine of Imam Abu Hanifa al-Nu'man, by whose pure soil the city of Baghdad was honored. Imam Abu Hanifa is followed by more than a billion Muslims around the world. Second, I was honored by meeting a group of distinguished sheikhs from the Fiqh Council of Senior Scholars to Preaching and Iftaa’(Verdicts), in whom I sensed wisdom and benevolence, and a deep sense of belonging and concern for this dear country, and for its past, present and future. This visit was an opportunity to discuss with their eminences and sheikhs the pressing issues facing Iraq and the region at this sensitive stage, and I conveyed to them the greetings of the Secretary-General of the United Nations and his wishes for their success and progress.At the beginning of my speech, I would like to express my deep appreciation to the Fiqh Council for the warm reception with which I was met, which reflects the strength of the relationship between the United Nations and religious institutions in Iraq, a relationship that has always been based on cooperation to enhance security, peace and stability for Iraq.During the meeting, we discussed the current situation in Iraq and the region, and I stressed the importance of dealing with matters wisely and calmly, putting Iraq's interests at the forefront in the face of challenges that may undermine Iraq's advancement and prosperity. We touched upon the multiple crises that affect stability in Iraq, whether in terms of security, political or social challenges, in addition to the tensions in the region that require continuous coordination between countries and regional and international institutions.We also discussed the situation in Gaza and the difficult humanitarian conditions experienced by the Palestinian people, and I explained to them the position of the United Nations and its Secretary-General, which is to seek to end the conflict in Gaza and stop the fighting immediately, as the world cannot stand idly in the face of this human suffering. We all hope that the international and regional efforts will bear fruit in ending this tragic conflict quickly and permanently.The United Nations continues to stand by Iraq and affirms its commitment to continue supporting the Iraqi people in their quest for stability and prosperity. There is no doubt that this fruitful cooperation with the Fiqh Council will remain an essential element in achieving the goals of peace and stability in Iraq and the region.

1 of 5

Press Release

28 December 2024

FAO strengthens veterinary capacities in epidemiology and disease surveillance in Iraq

Veterinary epidemiology plays a crucial role in examining disease patterns in animal populations to control outbreaks and protect public health. Effective surveillance relies on systematic animal health data collection and analysis, ensuring prompt responses to emerging threats. Enhancing veterinary staff's epidemiology skills improved disease surveillance and early warning systems, ensuring socio-economic stability and public health.Dr. Salah ElHajj Hassan, FAO Representative in Iraq, emphasized the urgent need to strengthen veterinary systems to address emerging disease risks. “Improving surveillance and early warning capabilities is key to protecting livestock health and food security. By equipping veterinary staff with critical skills, Iraq can better prevent and manage disease outbreaks, safeguarding livelihoods and ensuring food security. This workshop reflects FAO’s commitment to building sustainable, science-based veterinary capacities across Iraq within One Health approach" he said.The workshop focused on enhancing the disease surveillance and early warning capabilities of veterinary staff through comprehensive training in systematic data collection, analysis, and reporting. This was designed to ensure rapid detection and effective management of livestock diseases, contributing to stronger disease prevention efforts in Iraq.The training covered several key areas, including basic epidemiology concepts, the design and implementation of animal disease surveillance plans, surveillance methods, sampling procedures, disease reporting systems, and techniques for investigating disease outbreaks.A total of 24 participants attended the workshop, representing a broad range of stakeholders involved in animal health and disease surveillance. These included field veterinarians and laboratory staff from targeted governorates, selected staff from the Baghdad Epidemiology Department, staff members from the GDVAW/Erbil Animal Health Department, and representatives from slaughterhouse departments in Baghdad and Erbil.By equipping veterinary staff with critical skills in disease surveillance and reporting, the project aimed to prevent livestock disease outbreaks, protect livelihoods, and enhance food security in the region. Through systematic training and the cascading of expertise, the program contributed to the development of resilient and effective veterinary systems across Iraq.

1 of 5

Press Release

22 December 2024

JICA and UNDP Renew Partnership to Support Iraq’s Sustainable Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development

This partnership, which has spanned over fifteen years of cooperation with the Government of Iraq (GoI), reflects the strong commitment of UNDP and the GoJ/JICA to addressing Iraq’s need for efficient, stable, and reliable basic services and economic infrastructure. Together, they have significantly contributed to Iraq’s human and economic growth, aligning with Iraq’s national development plans and programmes focusing on economic diversification, infrastructure modernization, and improved social services.In support of its reconstruction and development, Iraq has received 36 Official Development Assistance (ODA) loans from the GoJ and JICA, totaling nearly USD 11 billion. These include 34 vital sectors project loans and 2 development policy loans. This development assistance is designed to support Iraq in achieving its sustainable development goals, with a focus on improving living conditions nationwide and restoring infrastructure to foster inclusive growth.“JICA remains committed to addressing the development challenges with the Government of Iraq through this impactful partnership with UNDP. This partnership provides comprehensive support for Iraqi officials to achieve international standards in project management, combining technical expertise, capacity development, and development financing. All of this is aimed at improving livelihoods and promoting sustainable development in the country,” said Hiroshi Suzuki, JICA Iraq Chief Representative.With this renewed Partnership Agreement, and in alignment with Iraq’s National Development Plan (NDP) 2024–2028, UNDP continues to provide critical support to the GoI to facilitate the smooth implementation of essential socio-economic projects financed by JICA’s ODA loans. This support includes senior-level coordination, fiduciary oversight, progress monitoring, technical assistance, knowledge-sharing, and capacity development. Moreover, by fostering transparency, accountability, and adherence to international standards, the partnership ensures the successful delivery of these vital projects.“This renewed partnership between UNDP and JICA highlights our shared commitment to supporting Iraq's development goals, focusing on infrastructure development, and sustainable economic and human capital growth. Together, we aim to facilitate the successful implementation of critical projects that will not only rebuild Iraq’s infrastructure but also promote long-term social and economic resilience, improving the lives of Iraqis across the country,” said UNDP Iraq Resident Representative Auke Lootsma.This unique and renewed partnership underscores the advantages of effective triangular cooperation in promoting prosperity, driving sustainable growth, and improving service delivery and infrastructure for a stable and thriving Iraq. It highlights the strong ownership by the Government of Iraq and serves as a model for impactful and sustainable partnerships that can contribute to Iraq’s long-term development.

1 of 5

View all