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Press Release
30 May 2023
Water complex rehabilitated by UNDP and USAID provides safe drinking water for over 30,000 people in Basra
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Press Release
29 May 2023
Stakeholders from across the spectrum shed light on farmer organization models and cooperatives in Iraq and their role in supporting the development of the agricultural sector
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Story
28 May 2023
WAG - KR meeting in Erbil
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Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals 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:
Publication
25 April 2023
2022 Iraq Annual Results Report
The United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Iraq consists of 23 UN agencies, funds, and programmes led by the UN Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator, who is the designated representative of the UN Secretary-General for development operations in Iraq.
The UNCT focuses on achieving Iraq's commitment to Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing evidence-based actions and specialized expertise.
The UN family's principle is to "leave no one behind," which guides all of its work in Iraq, with tailor-made support provided for the most vulnerable, disadvantaged, and socially excluded populations.
The UN in Iraq collaborates in a coherent manner to assist the government in achieving national development priorities and international development commitments, such as the SDGs.
The UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2020-2024 outlines the key shared development goals of the UN system in Iraq.
The UNCT focuses on achieving Iraq's commitment to Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing evidence-based actions and specialized expertise.
The UN family's principle is to "leave no one behind," which guides all of its work in Iraq, with tailor-made support provided for the most vulnerable, disadvantaged, and socially excluded populations.
The UN in Iraq collaborates in a coherent manner to assist the government in achieving national development priorities and international development commitments, such as the SDGs.
The UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2020-2024 outlines the key shared development goals of the UN system in Iraq.
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Story
18 May 2023
Briefing to the UN Security Council, SRSG Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert | 18 May 2023
With UNAMI’s next mandate renewal around the corner, I would like to take the opportunity to reflect, just a bit, and more importantly: to look ahead.
In the past months, numerous people and entities have analysed the events that shook Iraq 20 years ago, as well as the developments since.
Few would deny that it has been a very rough road. A road that has seen not only the compounding of existing fragilities, inherited from the previous decades, but also the exposure of new weaknesses.
And while many acknowledged that Iraq, throughout its history, has overcome some very dark times - they also argued that the drivers of instability in the country’s more recent past remained, for the most part, the same.
Drivers such as corruption, weak governance, the presence of armed non-state actors, impunity, factional politics, poor service delivery, inequality, unemployment, and an overreliance on oil.
Having said this, Iraq’s enormous potential was also widely highlighted, as was the view that the moment to act is now - thereby reaffirming that the confirmation of Iraq’s Government, last October, opened a crucial window of opportunity. So, the question is: where do things stand now?
As I mentioned in my most recent briefing to the Council, last February, the Government has shown its resolve to tackle a number of the pressing issues I just mentioned. And that still holds true. It is focusing on its core priorities and trying to avoid distractions that could threaten to upend prevailing political stability.
That said, of course, it is early days. And we do not have a crystal ball to predict the unknowns, which could include the rise of potential disrupters.
As I keep on emphasizing what we do know is that any government in this position needs time. And that, in itself, is already a challenge. Amid low or no tolerance for a return to the status quo, which existed before October 2022, the harsh reality is that there is no time to lose.
Hence, I can only emphasize the necessity for relentless commitment from a wide range of actors; the significance of placing the national interest over that of any individual or party; the critical role of independent state institutions, and the need for an active, empowered and protected civic space.
Madam President, the Government Programme is leading the way - signed off on by all coalition parties united in the State Administration Alliance. Now, that does not mean that there are no disagreements or quarrels, as is the case in other countries governed by a coalition.
To bridge differences and to follow up on implementation in priority areas, regular meetings between government and coalition members take place. It is quite simple: the balancing of multiple differing opinions and interests requires constant compromise.
Now - does this mean that dynamics, trends, opinions and perceptions from outside the coalition are not relevant? Of course, they are very relevant, I would say.
In other words, the healthy interplay of opposition and coalition must be allowed to function, including through public exchanges between decision-makers, political leaders, authority figures and broader civil society.
Also, and given the delicate balance needed to succeed in tackling core priorities, it is important to take into account the potential wider impact of a new law, action, or proposal - whether initiated in Parliament, the Government or elsewhere.
Will it consolidate or potentially conflict with key objectives? Will it bridge or widen divisions between groups and communities? Will it unite or rather estrange people? In other words, to break with the cycles of recurring crises, what must the priorities be? The fact is that Iraq has a full “to do” list. And, narrow or partisan actions will not help in checking it off.
Madam President, the resources needed to turn certain Government goals into realities, such as adequate public service delivery, should be unlocked with the passage of a federal budget. This is yet to happen and, these days, all eyes are on Iraq’s Council of Representatives.
Needless to say: agreement on a functioning budget, sooner rather than later, is critical. Including for the timely organization of the long-awaited Provincial Council Elections, now announced for no later than 20 December this year.
Meanwhile, Iraq continues to rely on oil. And the public sector remains the biggest employer. Now, these phenomena are, of course, nothing new. But, as I have said so many times, neither can last indefinitely. Economic diversification and major structural reforms remain urgent.
And yes, there is no denying it: this will prove to be challenging. For various reasons, including public expectations. After all, rather than developing an employment-generating private sector, successive governments opted for the easy way out. That is, the creation of public sector jobs to “hush” civil unrest. This has led to a wage bill no country could afford.
In saying that, let me also (and once again) emphasize, that much-needed reforms will not take root if choked by the weeds of patronage and graft. Also, as I already mentioned, independent state institutions are critical. No training, capacity building or technical assistance programme can combat the ill effects of political interference.
The good news is that the Government has taken an express stance against the adverse effects of corruption, which stem from the system as constructed over the past two decades. And yes, vested interests will make the required systemic reform undoubtedly an uphill struggle. But it must be done.
In speaking of reforms, I would like to acknowledge the efforts of the Government in pushing Iraq closer to a state of energy independence. Again, this will not happen overnight. But, from the issuing of new licensing rounds to efforts to reduce energy waste, including a clampdown on gas flaring, this ambitious goal is increasingly closer to being reached.
Turning to the Kurdistan Region, Madam President. Disagreements between the two ruling parties in recent months drove the Region close to the brink. It was for good reasons that the political situation was described (by many) as increasingly reckless and irresponsible.
While it is our firm belief that outstanding fiscal, administrative, security and electoral disagreements could have been addressed months ago, the will to compromise was - for far too long - glaringly absent.
That said, repeated efforts by the Region’s President, as well as others, to have the parties return to the negotiation table, and a recent meeting between the Region’s Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, led, at last, to some good news. After more than six months, the Kurdistan Region’s Cabinet met in full on Sunday.
At this stage, I can only express hope that parties will now step up, bridge differences, and work in the interest of all peoples. One glance at the history or geography of the Kurdistan Region reinforces just how urgent the need for sustainable solutions is.
Also, the Region’s parliamentary elections are long overdue. Initially scheduled for October 2022, an Election Day has now been set by the Region’s President, after consultations with all parties, for 18 November of this year. And, let me use this opportunity to remind parties that time is of the essence. Agreement on outstanding electoral issues must urgently be found. Another postponement would be detrimental to public trust.
With regards to Baghdad-Erbil relations, Madam President, I note that dynamics are still being described as good but complicated. Clearly, the political infighting in the Kurdistan Region did not help, as it also affected the relationship with partners in Baghdad.
On 4 April, following a ruling by the Paris-based International Court of Arbitration, and in the absence of the long-awaited hydrocarbon law, Baghdad and Erbil announced that they had reached a temporary agreement to allow for the resumption of oil exports through the Turkish port of Ceyhan.
On 10 May, Iraq’s government requested Türkiye to restart the exports. To date, however, they have not resumed. Since taps were turned off on 25 March, it is likely that hundreds of millions of dollars in revenues have been lost.
Allow me here to underline once more the importance of anticipatory governance and thus the structural institutionalization of relations between Baghdad and Erbil. Be it the budget, questions surrounding hydrocarbon resources, disputed territories, the implementation of the Sinjar Agreement, or any other outstanding issue for that matter, it remains essential to move beyond ad hoc engagements.
Zooming in on Sinjar, we can only express disappointment that little to no progress has been made in the implementation of the 2020 Sinjar Agreement. This is despite the repeated declarations of commitment. To state the obvious: such stagnation creates further space for spoilers (of different backgrounds and affiliations) to exploit the situation to their own ends. And, it blocks thousands of displaced Sinjaris from returning to their areas of origin.
Sadly, a recent rise in tensions between communities in Sinjar was in large part further fuelled by online disinformation targeting the Yazidi community. Local leaders from all sides have collectively worked to dispel this spike in tensions. But challenges to reconciliation will persist until meaningful steps are taken, including those towards a unified administration, stable security structures and reconstruction.
Now, with the inclusion of the 2020 Sinjar Agreement as an explicit priority in the Government Programme, it is high time to get things done.
Madam President, Iraq’s commendable commitment to the return of its citizens from Northeast Syria continues to serve as an example. While new rounds of returns are expected, work is ongoing to reintegrate previous returnees into their areas of origin or, where relevant, to pursue accountability aligned with applicable laws.
As we all know, the Iraqi caseload is overwhelming, and I can only emphasize the criticality of continued support to Iraq and the need for any country with nationals in Northeast Syria to follow suit by repatriating its citizens.
More generally, durable solutions for returnees from Northeast Syria and all other IDPs remain essential. This is particularly relevant following the sudden closure of a camp in Ninewa Governorate last April. Secondary displacement is difficult to control and creates new risks.
Something else, Madam President: water. Water represents the most critical climate emergency for Iraq. By 2035, it is estimated that Iraq will have the capacity to meet only 15% of its water demands. 90% of Iraq's rivers are polluted, and 7 million people are currently suffering from reduced access to water. This is a significant multiplier of threats to Iraq’s stability.
The priority placed on the issue of water security by Iraq’s Government is, therefore, most welcome. And, plans for the extensive updating of Iraq’s water management systems are said to be underway. This will be vital in meeting demands driven by population growth and urbanization.
The fair sharing of resources among Iraq’s neighbours is equally important. If water is a competition, everyone loses. Bold domestic actions and close regional cooperation offer the only winning solution.
On that note, I also wish to draw attention to a simple fact, which is that regional security, economic and political developments do - and will continue to - impact Iraq. I therefore cannot overstate the importance of the Government’s efforts to scale up diplomacy with and among its neighbours in a number of areas – from border security and trade to water-sharing and climate issues.
Of course, regional stability will also hinge on respect for the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and good neighbourliness.
Madam President, allow me to turn now to the issue of missing Kuwaiti and third-country nationals and missing Kuwaiti property - including the national archives.
The Iraqi authorities, assisted by the ICRC and the Tripartite Commission, continue efforts to locate witnesses and possible burial sites for Kuwaiti and third country nationals.
It goes without saying that we welcome the Prime Minister’s decision to establish a committee, comprising members of security agencies, which is chaired by the Human Rights Directorate of the Ministry of Defence and mandated to support activities in this regard.
We continue to await progress on the retrieval of missing Kuwaiti property - including the national archives.
Madam President, as my last point, let me go back to something I mentioned at the start of my briefing: the need for an active, empowered and protected civic space.
Facilitating and allowing a plethora of different voices to be heard, including those which disagree or critique prevailing decisions, is both healthy and essential.
Hence, I would like to express our sincere hope that Iraq’s leaders and authorities publicly embrace civic engagement, and the freedom of expression at that, to avoid fomenting a renewed sense of isolation and disillusion among Iraqi people, particularly the younger generation and women.
To be clear: accountability, rule of law and respect for human rights are equally essential to preventing recurring cycles of crises.
Now, in closing, and as spelled out so often, Iraq has tremendous potential. And through ambitious Government plans, provided, of course, that they are fully implemented, many drivers of instability can be addressed.
Of course, all of this could be easily spoiled - whether through unchecked corruption, interference from within, intrusion from the outside, a groundswell of disillusion or political horse-trading against the common good.
So, what I am essentially saying is: now is not the time to be complacent, or to take for granted that Iraq has turned a corner. So, I sincerely hope that all remain committed.
Thank you.
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Story
28 May 2023
WAG - KR meeting in Erbil
Members of the Women Advisory Group – Kurdistan Region (WAG - KR) met in Erbil on 23 May to discuss current and emerging political, economic and security issues that affect Kurdish women. The group complements the women advisory group in Baghdad established in 2019 to engage with UNAMI on issues impacting the women, peace, and security agenda.
The idea to form the group in the KR followed a discussion between SRSG Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert and a group of Kurdish women activists last October, where issues impacting communities in the Region, including protection of women, were raised. WAG- KR is expected to function as a forum to promote coalition-building and strong cooperation among Kurdish women from different political, religious, and ethnic affiliations and interests.
Facilitating the discussion, Idah Muema, UNAMI Senior Gender Advisor, stated that “it is expected that WAG members will bring forward their knowledge, experience, and insights to support UNAMI’s mandate on Gender, Women, Peace, and Security including promoting women’s involvement, representation and participation in political and electoral processes.”
Former minister of women affairs and writer on women issues, Nermine Uthman Hassan, explained that the advisory group will be instrumental in discussing the “elections, appointment of women in decision-making positions, and the situation of IDPs and returnees”.
In his interaction with the group, Ricardo Rodriquez, head of office of the UN Regional office in the Kurdistan Region, encouraged members to use the platform to promote the women, peace, and security agenda.
At the end of the meeting, political and civil activist, Pakhshan Zangana, stressed the importance of working in this group with UNAMI to address political and economic issues. “We did a very good thing today. The issues we discussed touched on the political issues and it’s important to hear the perspectives of Kurdish women. I hope that our group will not be neglected after a while”, she commented.
Qumrya Muhammad of the Kurdistan Justice Group expressed her satisfaction to be working with other women from different ethnicity and political parties, stating that “the platform provides an opportunity for women to consult and contribute to the crucial issues for a better Kurdistan Region".
In the same vein, Suaad Razak from the Gorran Movement said, “We have the will to work and we are happy to be receiving support from UNAMI to achieve our goals”.
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Photo
23 May 2023
UNAMI hosts Cihan University students, explains the work of the UN and hears their views
Erbil, Iraq
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https://www.flickr.com/photos/uniraq/albums/72177720308489521
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Story
27 May 2023
UNIDO Empowers Iraqi Officials through Comprehensive Training on Food Safety and Hygiene to Address Food Insecurity
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has successfully concluded the first of two extensive training programs on food safety and hygiene as part of the Japanese-funded project, "Emergency livelihood support to mitigate the food insecurity crisis among vulnerable people in Iraq." Government officials from the ministries of Health, Agriculture, and Industry in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) underwent a rigorous training session from May 13 to 18, 2023.
The comprehensive training course aimed to strengthen the understanding and skills of government officials, providing them with the tools and knowledge required to enhance food safety, hygiene, and quality. By familiarizing participants with the highest food safety standards and ministry guidelines, the training aimed to equip them to provide extension services and share best practices with food service establishments, facilitating greater compliance with industry regulations.
During the six-day sessions, participants delved into various aspects of food handling, processing, storage, and contamination. Esteemed food safety experts from the Quality Control Department under the Ministry of Industry led the training, imparting in-depth knowledge on measures, tools, and regulations for the safe handling of food.
Khalis Muhmamed, a participant of the training, expressed his satisfaction with the program's outcomes, stating, "we now possess a deeper understanding and the necessary skills to conduct food safety checks. Equipped with this knowledge, we can guide food manufacturing workers in enhancing their food safety practices, thereby fostering growth within their businesses."
Recognizing the pivotal role of food safety in sustainable development, Muhmamed added, "Food safety plays a crucial role in agricultural development and food security, forming the foundation for long-term, sustainable growth."
The training also emphasized the significance of food safety in safeguarding public health. Arkhawan Ibrahim, another participant, highlighted the program's focus on the risks associated with food processing, stating, "The training shed light on quality assurance and enhancement measures, addressing key determinants of human health."
Acknowledging the shared responsibility in ensuring food safety, Ibrahim emphasized the collective effort required from all members of the food supply chain and regulatory authorities to detect malpractices and hazards.
Armed with their newfound knowledge and skills, the participants are now equipped to provide food enterprises with expert guidance on food safety practices, ensuring compliance with existing regulations. Establishing consumer trust in the quality and safety of local food products is essential for fostering economic growth within the food industry and generating increased employment opportunities.
The UNIDO-led training program marks a significant milestone in enhancing food safety standards and addressing the food insecurity crisis in Iraq. By equipping government officials with the necessary expertise, the project aims to promote sustainable development, agricultural growth, and improved food security across the country.
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Story
24 May 2023
"Hello, world. I cannot talk yet, but I want to tell my story”
“I wish I had a name, but I don’t have one yet. I still carry my mother’s name so you can call me ‘son of Nisreen’ as written on the bracelet they put on my tiny wrist.
I was born on 8 April 2023 - nine weeks before my birth due date - weighing 800 grams. Yes, just 800 grams! Previously premature babies like me with this low birth weight would not have made it this far but, apparently, I am lucky. I am lucky to be born in a hospital newly rehabilitated and equipped with the latest medical technologies to give the gift of life to little human beings like me.
I spent my first 50 days of life in this small transparent box called ‘incubator’. I sleep in it; I eat in it; and I so far spent all my days enjoying its warmth. Yes, I am lucky and my start in life might look difficult, but my days are not in danger anymore.
Every day, people dressed in gowns and white coats come to check on me, some tickle me with their rubber gloves. Yesterday, a nurse even gave me a painful injection. I wanted to cry, but I could not!.. but for the last few days, I see the smiles on the faces of the doctors every time they peek through the glass of my box. Their smiles give me comfort and I feel that my life out of this box is not far. I cannot wait to meet my family and finally have a name.
I know my mother Nisreen and my father Karwan are eagerly waiting to introduce me to my sister and the rest of the family. They did not think I would make it this far, but things are looking rather promising.
My story would have been a normal one if I was born on my due date in any maternity hospital in my town but coming to life too early and too tiny put me at a risk that only a well-equipped maternity hospital could manage. I am so happy to be born in Erbil Maternity Teaching Hospital which has today the right equipment and the right doctors and nurses to care for small people like me.”
# # #
WHO team was inspired by the story of little Meer, and during the visit to the hospital, were told that Meer is now weighing 1800 grams and is getting ready to leave the incubator in the aforementioned hospital and go meet his family. His days are no longer in danger after spending almost two months under the care of well-trained healthcare professionals in a WHO-supported facility. Meer and premature babies like him had little chances of survival before the opening of this state-of-the-art neonatal service in Erbil.
The journey of Meer is a proof of the impact of investing in quality healthcare for premature infants. This is the reason why WHO and the U.S Department of State Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM) have partnered with Erbil Directorate of Health and Erbil Maternity Teaching Hospital to upgrade the neonatal services as well as the delivery room with outstanding impact on maternal and child survival and well-being. The 2nd tranche of the project will further improve the obstetric services and will provide Meer and other premature babies from Erbil and surrounding governorates with a healthy start in life. (END)
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Story
23 May 2023
UNAMI hosts Cihan University students, explains the work of the UN and hears their views
As part of outreach with different stakeholders to explain the work of the United Nations in Iraq, the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq’s (UNAMI) Regional Office in Erbil hosted a group of students from the International Relations Department of Cihan University (Erbil) on 22 May 2023.
The visit, organized by the UNAMI Public Information Office, aimed to provide the students with an overview of UNAMI's work in the Kurdistan Region and to hear their views and concerns.
The Head of the Erbil Regional Office, Mr. Ricardo Rodriguez, welcomed the students to the UN compound. They were also briefed by UNAMI Senior Human Rights Officer in the Kurdistan Region, Mr. Florian Razesberger, Electoral Affairs Officer, Mr. Aso AlKakee, Associate Public Information Officer, Celia Dadson, and UNMAS Communication Senior Officer Ms. Krman Abdalqadir. The speakers discussed UNAMI's mandate, activities, and general UN-related topics on political affairs, human rights, public information and mine action.
The students – 17 males and 7 females - were accompanied by Mr. Mahmood Ismael, Head of the International Relations Department of Cihan University. During a tour of the UNAMI Erbil Regional Office compound, the students witnessed the work of UNAMI staff, both national and international, and interacted on various issues of interest.
In his remarks, Mr. Rodriguez said that UNAMI maintains good cooperation with the Kurdistan Region authorities and its institutions. He noted that the Mission leadership frequently visits the Kurdistan Region and meet with senior officials, community leaders, civil society organizations and institutions.
In briefing the participants, the Mission’s Political Affairs Office highlighted their engagement with political parties and actors including with representatives of minority communities; while the Human Rights Office referred to the series of seminars they have conducted on the fundamentals of human rights for the judicial and security institutions as well as NGOs. Other sections of the Mission also deliver trainings on gender and youth aspects and on media relations. The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) briefed on their work, including the areas that have been cleared from explosive remnants of war across Iraq.
Mr. Rodriguez pointed out that such visits serve as a platform for positive interaction and building trust. Also, these outreach activities help not only to explain what UNAMI does, but also to learn from the public’s input. He said that UNAMI is committed to working with the people of the Kurdistan Region to build a better future for all.
Rashwan Salih
UNAMI Public Information Office, Erbil
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Story
06 May 2023
Opening speech at the 3rd Baghdad International Water Conference by The Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator MR. GHULAM ISACZAI
Today, I have the honor of speaking at the 3rd Baghdad International Water Conference, at the invitation of H.E. Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, Prime Minister of Iraq, and H.E. Aoun Diab, Minister of Water Resources.
I would like to begin by highlighting some positive developments related to the water agenda that have taken place in recent months, thanks to the joint efforts of the Government of Iraq and the United Nations.
Specifically, I would like to congratulate Iraq for being the pioneer in the region to accede to the UN Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes. This accession will open new opportunities to enhance transboundary water cooperation, while strengthening national water policies and practices, and enhancing intersectoral cooperation and stakeholder participation.
From our side at the United Nations, we have established a Water Task Force comprising water experts from different international organizations and think tanks to provide technical assistance and advice to the Government of Iraq on water issues. Our advocacy and engagement on water challenges in Iraq have increased significantly, reflecting our commitment to supporting Iraq in addressing its looming water crisis.
At the national level, there is a need to:
Initiate a national dialogue on water and around SDG6 on Clean Water and Sanitation leading to development of a national Water Roadmap.
Make water resources management as a national priority, while allocating sufficient funds towards research, analysis, innovation, and transfer of efficient technologies for integrated water resources management.
Invest in national capacity building, water infrastructure including dams, irrigation systems, and wastewater treatment plants, to maximize water usage.
Promote water conservation measures: such as repairing leaky pipes, introduce water-saving technologies, and enforce regulations on water usage.
Revive traditional Rainwater harvesting practices such as building catchment systems, to collect and store rainwater for future use.
Establish water monitoring systems for river and ground water, and take regulatory, technological, and behavioral measures to prevent water pollution, while also investing in urban water recycling.
Combat desertification through integrated and adaptive land, water, and forest management.
Launch education and awareness campaigns to promote responsible water usage and conservation.
At the regional level there is a need to:
Strengthen regional cooperation to develop equitable and eco-friendly water use policies, while developing a negotiated strategy encouraging riparian countries to sign river-basin-management agreements based on a win-win approach.
Conduct regional water assessment of the economic, environmental, regional integration and political benefits costs of non-cooperation on water resources.
Actively leverage relevant global legal instruments on transboundary water.
To effectively address Iraq’s water challenges, we must work jointly and transparently. The cross-cutting nature of water means that challenges must be addressed through a whole of government and whole of society approach, and approach that is inclusive and engages the Iraqi people, that is those most directly affected by the water situation.
On our side at the United Nations, we will continue to actively engage with our government counterparts, through the Water Task Force and the Inter-agency working group on climate and environment.
Let me close by saying that all technical solutions to the water problems are within our reach; what we need is effective policies, investments, incentive mechanisms, regulations, and enforcement actions.
The United Nations stands ready to support. I wish you all a fruitful conference.
Thank you.
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Story
03 May 2023
Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq Claudio Cordone reaffirms UNAMI’s commitment to free and independent media at #WorldPressFreedomDay event
On 3 May 2023 The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) and UNESCO Iraq joined global celebrations commemorating the 30th annual World Press Freedom Day at a special event they organized in conjunction with the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate.
The event, which highlighted this year’s theme, “Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights” brought together Iraqi officials from the Prime Minister’s Office, the High Judicial Council, the Ministry of Interior, the Commission on Media and Communications, as well as scores of journalists and other media professionals from a wide range of media outlets.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Claudio Cordone, the Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General of UNAMI emphasised the need “to stand in solidarity with journalists, to support them when they are under attack, and to hold those who seek to silence them accountable for their actions.” He also highlighted that “we must protect their right to investigate, report and comment on matter of public interest, even if their views are unpopular or controversial.”
In a video message commemorating the day, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mr. Volker Türk, asserted that “without freedom of expression, we cannot challenge injustice, spark change or engage in the debates that make us fundamentally human”. In that spirit, he reminded the global community that “the safety of journalists is not just a question of personal security, it is a question of the safety and health of entire societies. It is a moral imperative – for the future of all of us – that we do everything possible to protect it”.
Freedom of expression is guaranteed in Iraq by Article 38 of the Constitution, as well as Articles 19 of the Universal Declaration for Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. World Press Freedom Day provides an excellent opportunity for government, media, civil society, and international organizations to recommit to protecting journalists and human rights defenders, bloggers, activists and all those who exercise their right of freedom of expression, fostering debate, and promoting freedom of expression in Iraq and worldwide.
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Press Release
30 May 2023
Water complex rehabilitated by UNDP and USAID provides safe drinking water for over 30,000 people in Basra
Built in 1977, the Al-Hussein water complex provided untreated water from the R-Zero station to homes, nearby industries, and military bases for over 40 years. Despite increasing water demand, the Al-Hussein water complex stopped operating three years ago because of the facility’s outdated and damaged equipment. Its closure severely affected the water supply in the sub-district and surrounding areas, leading to health concerns for residents as well as negative impacts for local businesses and agricultural production.
Rehabilitated by UNDP’s Iraq Crisis Response and Resilience Programme (ICRRP) funded by USAID, the Al-Hussein water complex is now fully operational with upgraded water pumps and treatment equipment to ensure the water that goes to homes, schools, and other establishments is safe for human consumption. Moreover, at least 45 people have resumed work upon the water treatment plant’s reopening.
“Access to clean water is one of the most pressing challenges Iraq faces. The scarcity of water and outdated infrastructure affects the health and well-being of millions of Iraqis and hampers the country’s development. The reopening of the Al-Hussein water complex is a step forward to build capacity and promote the importance of safe water and sanitation for people’s health,” says UNDP Resident Representative in Iraq Auke Lootsma, speaking at the inauguration ceremony.
“UNDP remains committed to working with our steadfast partner, USAID, to support Iraq and help ensure that its people have access to critical services and opportunities that enable them to lead healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives,” he adds.
“Improving Iraq’s water infrastructure and management of this precious resource directly contributes to the country’s stability and prosperity,” United States Ambassador to Iraq, Her Excellency Alina L. Romanowski said. “The United States, through USAID, is proud to be working with UNDP to rehabilitate the Al-Hussein water complex, which is helping improve the lives of thousands of local residents.”
Since 2019, UNDP’s Iraq Crisis Response and Resilience Programme, with support from USAID, has been rehabilitating critical water treatment plants in Basra. So far, nine water treatment plants in Shatt al-Arab, Al-Qurna and Abi al-Khaseeb districts have been completed, serving 149,000 people.
For media inquiries:
Clara McLinden, Senior Development Outreach and Communications Specialist, USAID
iraq-doc@usaid.gov
Mohammed Al-Bahbahanee, Communications Specialist, UNDP Iraq
mohammed.al-bahbahanee@undp.org | +9647704399222
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Press Release
29 May 2023
Stakeholders from across the spectrum shed light on farmer organization models and cooperatives in Iraq and their role in supporting the development of the agricultural sector
Baghdad, Iraq – 29 May 2023 - An event was held by partners implementing the European Union Agri-food Business Development Programme (AfBDP) in Baghdad on Monday (May 29) to discuss the development of farmers’ organizations and cooperatives in Iraq and ways to strengthen their role so they can better respond to the needs of society, particularly the most vulnerable.
The event marks the first in a series of events under the AfBDP, to showcase and discuss relevant topics under the boarder Agri-food Business Development Programme, which seeks to strengthen governance and promote sustainable job creation in Iraq’s agri-foodsector through activities that address the entire food value chain.
Social and solidarity economy entities such as cooperatives and farmers' organizations can play a crucial role in supporting the development of these value chains by facilitating coordination among farmers, improving access to markets and finance, and advocating for more conducive policy and regulatory reforms.
“This event today is an opportunity, the first of its kind that brings together stakeholders from the various sectors of the government, the private sector and organizations, to come up with recommendations that will help regulate or organize cooperative work with a new concept…I invite all organizations to provide their support so that we can modernize the concept of cooperative work in Iraq,” said MithaqAbdul-Hussein, the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture.
The first event was attended by relevant entities, including representatives from the Council of Ministers, the Ministries of Labour and Social Affairs, Agriculture, Planning, Education and Higher Education, as well as workers’ and employers’ organizations, farmers’ associations, civil society organizations, parliament, representatives from banks in Iraq, universities and research institutes. It also included other stakeholders involved in the development of the agricultural sector.
It also brought together EU’s AfBDP members which include the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the International Trade Centre (ITC), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and COWATER.
Participants took stock of the current situation of agricultural cooperatives and farmers groups in Iraq, some of the challenges and opportunities with the different models for business clusters in agriculture and how they can be supported to grow into sustainable entities, including through the creation of a conducive policy environment for cooperative development and promotion of farmers groups in Iraq.
Partners under the AfBDP highlighted some of the work they are undertaking to support cooperatives and farmers’ organization models, in terms of implementing certain models of farmer organizations, supporting cooperatives to advance employment and decent work, financing climate adaptation, among others.
“The EU has been a long standing partner of Iraq in supporting the agricultural sector as a way to diversify the economy and promote jobs creation. Agricultural cooperatives can and should play an important role in supporting farmers and this model is successful working in many areas of the world both in the developed and developing world. Today’s discussion was important to understand the challenges faced by agricultural cooperatives in Iraq, and to discuss how to make them more effective in targeting the needs of the farmers,” said Ville Varjola, Ambassador of the European Union to Iraq.
“Cooperatives should be seen as important partners in socio-economic development. Their democratic nature, collective ownership and focus on self-help create a unique means of empowerment. At a time when the world of work is experiencing unprecedented changes, we look forward to continuing to grow our partnerships in this field, in order to support sustainable development and a more just, inclusive and safe future of work with decent work for all,” added Maha Kattaa, ILO Country Coordinator in Iraq.
Since 2021 the European Union has funded several international partners in Iraq - ILO, FAO, IOM, UNESCO, ITC, GIZ and COWATER - to collaborate under a large Agri-food Business Development Programme that uses a programmatic approach by leveraging each agency’s strengths to address different weaknesses in the private sector and agri-food sector in a coordinated fashion. Central to many of the projects in the AfBDP is an agri-food value chain approach that supports stabilization and governance, and promotes sustainable job creation.
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Press Release
28 May 2023
Government of Iraq & UN in Iraq Convenes UNSDCF 2020-2024 first Joint Steering Committee Meeting
The UNSDCF aligns with Iraq's national priorities, and the establishment of the JSC as the overarching governing body dedicated to implementing the UNSDCF in Iraq was a significant outcome of the meeting. During the session, participants endorsed the 2022 Annual Results Report, outcome of the mid-term review of the Cooperation Framework and agreed on the appointment of government co-chairs to join the five Priority Working Groups. Meetings participants also noted the funding gap for implementing the remaining activities of the Cooperation Framework and agreed to collaborate to mobilize resources including from the government.
Highlighting the vital partnership between the Government and the UN System, the Minister of Planning acknowledged the significant contributions of the UN in terms of policy support, technical expertise, and resources to advance national development priorities. He stressed the importance of enhancing government ownership and designing a clear strategic cooperation framework that incorporates inputs from key stakeholders, ensuring alignment with national strategic priorities.
Echoing this sentiment, the UN Resident Coordinator emphasized that "The JSC serves as the high-level accountability forum between the UN and the Government of Iraq for the Cooperation Framework. It plays a pivotal role in providing strategic direction, oversight, and coordination for the UN's programmatic and operational interventions in Iraq's development sector." In his closing remarks, he underscored the Committee's commitment to monitoring the progress made in implementing the Cooperation Framework, which aims to propel Iraq's development trajectory. He emphasized the critical role of government engagement and leadership in aligning national priorities with the Cooperation Framework, as well as in regularly monitoring its implementation and results.
The JSC meeting marked a significant milestone in Iraq's pursuit of sustainable development, demonstrating the commitment of both the Government and the UN System to work collaboratively for the betterment of the country. Through ongoing collaboration and effective implementation of the UNSDCF, Iraq aims to achieve its developmental goals and propel itself toward a prosperous future.
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Press Release
26 May 2023
Statement by Special Adviser and Head of UNITAD Christian Ritscher on visit to Anbar
With violence at the core of its ideology, ISIL did not spare Iraq, its people from all communities, and its cultural and religious heritage from its vicious attacks. Like in other parts of Iraq, and as our findings indicate, ISIL targeted all segments of the Iraqi community in Anbar, including Sunni tribes that refused to pledge allegiance to ISIL’s rein of terror, declaring them apostates who deserve to be executed. During ISIL’s control of Anbar, a large number of tribesmen, women and children were killed by Da’esh or forcibly disappeared.
Our ongoing investigations are also looking into ISIL’s destruction and desecration of religious places like the shrine and mosque of Abdullah Bin Al-Mubarak, one of the most prominent and widely respected historical Sunni persons. With these acts, ISIL proved, once and again, that its attacks were not founded in religion, but on their twisted manipulative discourses, that have nothing to do with religion or belief. These acts are founded in hate and inhumanity.
Our teams have been working tirelessly to uncover the scope of ISIL’s attacks targeting all those who stood against it, with a dedicated investigative unit for the crimes committed against the Sunni community.
This includes interviewing witnesses and survivors and supporting the excavation of mass grave sites. In addition, our experts very recently launched a digitization project with Al Anbar Criminal Court to digitize and preserve the courts’ records and cases pertaining to ISIL crimes. These operations contribute to drawing the full picture of ISIL’s criminality and enhances our different lines of inquiry. We will go on with such investigations, aiming to establish the legal qualification of the crimes committed by ISIL perpetrators as international crimes, meaning war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.
With this said, I must stress that UNITAD’s work in Anbar would not be possible without the close cooperation with victim and survivor communities, as well as our Iraqi counterparts including the Iraqi judiciary. I reaffirm my thanks to the Iraqi Jurisprudence Council, for their continued support, and I commend the Council’s firm position against ISIL.
The bereaved families who have waited for long to see the truth uncovered, and for justice to prevail have welcomed UNITAD and welcomed me today, and to them I say, your plights remain at the core of our work. Commemorating ISIL victims from the Sunni community comes in line with our principle that there is no hierarchy of victims. Each and every victim matters, from all affected communities. Yet, remembrance is not the only way we honor the victims and their families. It is through true justice and accountability for the many crimes committed by ISIL perpetrators that we do so.
Through my visit today I reiterate my Team’s commitment to continue its work to establish the truth and serve justice to all victims, including those from the Sunni community. We are here among you and will continue to work jointly with all stakeholders to meet your calls for justice.
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Press Release
25 May 2023
FAO Training on proper personal protective equipment (PPE) use and biosecurity in field activities
The workshop aimed to increase the veterinarian field capacities and promote how they can use personal protective equipment (PPE) properly in the field. It also aimed to train technical field staff on how to protect themselves from exposure to pathogenic agents and to manage the field-based biosecurity and biosafety standards.
Thirty-Eight specialists from the veterinary services in Baghdad, Erbil, Duhok, Nineveh, Anbar, Wasit, Muthanna and Basra, including four from each federal and KRG Ministry of Health participated in the training. The session was attended by the FAO-Representative in Iraq and officials from relevant ministries.
FAO Representative, Dr. Salah El Hajj Hassan, concentrated on the importance of these workshops for field veterinarians, especially since many lethal emerging and re-emerging zoonotic diseases are reported within the country and in the whole region such as Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF); therefore, it requires a dedicated and sustained effort including specific technical and professional training.
Proficiency using PPE in the field is one of the important elements that contribute to biosafety and biosecurity, which provide physical barriers that prevent the hands, skin, clothing, eyes, nose, and mouth from coming into contact with infectious agents and avoiding contamination of samples during collection. This will contribute to avoiding the spread of disease in animal and human population.
The four-day training also included a field visit and practice to apply the training materials presented during the workshop.
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