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:

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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.

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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.

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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.”

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06 July 2025

Statement to the press by the SRSG and Head of UNAMI, Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan, Karbala Governorate, 5 July 2025

But you have always been generous with us in the media sector — partners in delivering this message. Our thanks are a small thing.Today, I’m on a scheduled visit — honestly, one that has been planned for quite some time — to the Holy Governorate of Karbala, on this day, the ninth of Muharram. And as you are used to in our visits to any Iraqi governorate, the programme always starts by entering through the proper doors — through the gate of the Governor — and that’s what we did. This is the usual practice we follow.I met with my brother and colleague, the Governor, in the presence of a number of deputies and representatives in this developing governorate. We discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between the United Nations and Karbala Governorate in the field of sustainable development across different sectors. I also listened to his vision regarding improving services for the people of this part of Iraq, and the plans he is proposing in coordination with the government in Baghdad to develop many sectors — especially future sectors related to artificial intelligence and digital technology, where this governorate is already ahead.We also touched on some areas of cooperation with the United Nations. There are many joint programmes, and God willing, they will continue and move forward. Karbala deserves that.Also today, a short while ago, I met with the representative of the Supreme Religious Authority here, His Eminence Sheikh Abdul-Mahdi Al-Karbalai — may God protect him. During the meeting, we emphasized the historic role the religious authority plays in strengthening national harmony, protecting Iraq’s social fabric, and promoting a culture of tolerance and coexistence.My message to our people in Iraq — including in this holy governorate — is: what I saw today in Karbala is a living image of Iraq’s unity and solidarity. What we witnessed truly reflects the meaning of national belonging above all other considerations. The stability achieved in Iraq did not come by coincidence — it is the result of collective will and costly sacrifices. We hope for Iraq the utmost success, safety, stability, and prosperity, inspired by the spirit of Karbala that rises above oppression.Field visits have always been an opportunity to capture the pulse of the genuine Iraqi street. And choosing this specific time — during the sacred days of Muharram — is a clear sign of our respect for the sanctity of the Iraqi people’s feelings, and our belief that the eternal message of truth is the foundation for any real peace.Thank you.

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01 July 2025

Promoting Human Rights in Iraq’s Counter-Terrorism Efforts: UNOCT and NSA Host a Workshop for Security Entities in Diyala Governorate

Erbil, Iraq – 2-3 June 2025The United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism’s (UNOCT) Human Rights Unit, in collaboration with Iraq’s National Security Advisory (NSA), concluded a two-day workshop in Erbil on “Human Rights-Compliant Investigation Techniques in the Context of Counter-Terrorism for the Iraqi Law Enforcement and Intelligence Services in Diyala Governorate.”As part of the UNOCT project “Human Rights and Counter-Terrorism: Capacity-building Support to Law Enforcement and Intelligence Services in Iraq,” the workshop aimed to strengthen the capacity of Iraqi counter-terrorism professionals working in the Diyala governorate to conduct investigations that respect international human rights. The initiative is generously funded by the Government of Canada.Participants included members of the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC), officers from Diyala Governorate’s law enforcement and intelligence agencies, and representatives of the Iraqi High Commission for Human Rights (IHCHR), in addition to the presence of one CSO from Diyala. Through interactive sessions, practical exercises, and expert-led discussions, the workshop addressed psychological approaches to investigations, interview techniques, stress management, and the legal boundaries of interrogation.Key objectives of the training included:Strengthening the capacity of participants to conduct human rights-compliant investigations in terrorism cases;Introducing principles of investigative psychology;Exploring the legal and ethical challenges facing investigators;Enhancing collaboration among investigative security agencies, judicial institutions, and human rights monitors.This marks the tenth workshop under the ongoing capacity-building initiative led by UNOCT and NSA, reinforcing Iraq’s efforts to ensure justice and accountability in counter-terrorism operations while upholding human rights principles.Ms. Shurooq Fakhir / Assistant Secretary of the National Counter-Terrorism Committee - NSA: “We value our partnership with UNOCT and the Government of Canada in building the capacities of law enforcement and intelligence agencies in the HR field.”The event built the capacity of Iraqi law enforcement and intelligence officers from Diyala Governorate to comply with international HR in their CT work.Participants included 32 officers from NSA, the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC), the Iraqi High Commission for Human Rights (IHCHR), and security officers involved in investigating CT cases in Diyala Governorate. These participants have experience in handling terrorism-related cases.Participants engaged in interactive sessions covering the legal foundations of human rights in investigations and the role of investigative psychology. Practical exercises focused on human rights and the Iraqi legal framework.

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17 June 2025

Harvesting Hope: Reversing Desertification through Conservation Agriculture for Sustainable Land Management in Southern Iraq

Desertification, water scarcity, salinization, and land degradation have long threatened rural communities in southern Iraq. These interlinked challenges—worsened by climate change and unsustainable practices—have led to declining soil fertility, reduced crop yields, and increasing vulnerability to drought.However, a new hope is taking root in the governorates of Thi-Qar and Al-Muthanna. With the support of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in partnership with Iraq’s Ministries of Environment, Water Resources, and Agriculture, and with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), farmers are adopting Conservation Agriculture to combat land degradation, protect natural resources, and build a more resilient farming future.As we mark the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (June 17), this initiative is a powerful example of how sustainable land management can Restore the Land and Unlock opportunities to preserve ecosystems and improve livelihoods.  Restoring Degraded Land in a Time of DroughtThis initiative is part of the project titled "Sustainable Land Management (SLM) for Improved Livelihoods in Degraded Areas of Iraq", designed to help farmers restore crop productivity on degraded lands while conserving water and improving their resilience to drought.To highlight the economic and ecological advantages of Conservation Agriculture (CA) practices, FAO and national partners established 41 Farmer Field School (FFS) demonstration plots across Thi-Qar and Al-Muthanna. These plots serve as validation trials to compare conventional traditional farming methods with CA practices for key crops such as wheat, barley, mung beans, faba bean, sorghum, millet and alfalfa, providing hands-on training to 1,600 farmers.

Practices included:Minimum tillage to reduce soil disturbanceCrop rotation or intercropping to improve soil fertilitySoil cover crop, organic mulching using surface crop residue management to retain moisture and prevent erosion   Farmers Reaping the BenefitsDespite initial hesitation, farmers quickly recognized the benefits. Improved soil structure and moisture retention led to healthier crops, higher yields, lower costs and higher economic returns—transforming their approach to farming.   Key Benefits of Conservation AgricultureIncreased Crop Yields
“I’ve seen my crop yields increase by around 25% since I started using conservation agriculture,” says Farmer Hashim Koti. “Before, I only earned 60-70K IQD every 2-3 months, but now I make 100-150K IQD per month. I’m using these techniques of CA on all my crops now—there’s no going back.” Saving Water, Building Resilience
“Conventional farming required 7 irrigation cycles for my barley and berseem crops,” explains Farmer Sadiq Mazher. “But with Conservation Agriculture, I only need 5 cycles—that’s almost 30% water savings. This also makes soil better, improve environment and my crops are doing better than ever.” Reducing Costs and inputs
“I’ve saved 20% on farming costs in the first year alone,” shares Farmer Issa Ramadhan. “Traditional tillage is expensive with all the ploughing, fertilizers, and water required. With Conservation Agriculture practices, I’ve reduced these costs significantly, and the results speak for themselves. I’ve been able to reinvest that money into improving my farm.” Scaling Up Sustainable SolutionsThrough continuous Farmer Field School training, demonstration plots, and peer exchange, the project has inspired a growing number of farmers in southern Iraq to shift toward sustainable farming practices.As the initiative expands, the goal is not only to improve crop productivity but also to restore degraded land, reduce erosion, and reverse desertification. Sowing the Seeds of Land RestorationThe success of this initiative shows that change is possible—even under challenging environments. By improving soil health, reducing pressure on water resources, and increasing resilience to climate extremes, Conservation Agriculture is restoring ecosystems and helping communities thrive.On this World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, the story of these farmers reminds us that investing in land restoration is investing in people, resilience, and a more secure food future.With continued support from FAO, GEF, and Iraq’s authorities, local farmers are becoming champions of sustainability—reshaping the future of agriculture across Iraq’s most fragile landscapes.This initiative contributes to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

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Press Release

06 July 2025

UN Special Representative for Iraq and Head of UNAMI, Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan, visits Karbala Governorate

During the meeting with the Governor of Karbala, discussions focused on several matters, including topics of development in the governorate and the potential contribution of the United Nations through its specialized agencies. The Special Representative commended the progress achieved in the governorate and its importance at the national level.In a press conference, the Special Representative expressed the United Nations’ interest in supporting development and service improvement throughout Iraq, including in the promising governorate of Karbala. He emphasized the importance of continued cooperation between the Government of Iraq and the United Nations. The Special Representative also expressed his confidence in Iraq’s ability to advance to new stages of development, noting the human and scientific potential of Iraq’s people both inside and outside the country.Full text of the Special Representative’s remarks available at: https://youtu.be/__fpGS1fLsg

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Press Release

25 June 2025

UN Secretary-General's Special Representative Meets with Iraq’s Minister of Justice

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, met today with the Iraqi Minister of Justice, Dr. Khalid Shwani, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Baghdad.During the meeting, the two sides discussed a range of issues of mutual interest between the United Nations and the Government of Iraq, with a particular focus on the completion of the official and sustainable entitlement of the Iraqi High Commission for Human Rights. Discussions also covered justice sector reform, the promotion of the rule of law, and the improvement of detention conditions in line with international standards.The meeting also addressed the situation of forcibly disappeared persons, detainees, and prisoners, and stressed the importance of ensuring that citizens who have not been convicted of crimes are allowed to return to their homes, lands, and villages, in accordance with laws and regulations, that are consistent with international human rights principles - based on the respect for dignity and equality before the law for all Iraqis.The Special Representative reaffirmed the United Nations’ continued support for the Government of Iraq’s efforts to strengthen justice, equality, and accountability, and to combat impunity. He also commended the Ministry of Justice’s positive engagement with the United Nations, in a spirit that reinforces transparency and the rule of law.

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Press Release

28 May 2025

Iraq Advances in Developing Transparency Frameworks in Climate Action

Iraq took a significant step forward in its climate action today with the official launch of key climate reports during a high-level ceremony in Baghdad. The event was held under the patronage and in the presence of Dr. Hallo Mustafa Al Askari, Minister of Environment of the Republic of Iraq, and Mr. Sami Dimassi, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Representative and Regional Director for West Asia, and was attended by representatives from key ministries, government institutions, United Nations agencies, and international partners.The reports—the Second National Communication (SNC), First Biennial Update Report (BUR), and Biennial Transparency Report (BTR)—are essential tools in enhancing Iraq’s transparency in climate action and reaffirm its commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.These reports are cornerstones of global climate reporting frameworks, offering accurate, transparent, comparable, and comprehensive data. They allow for effective tracking and assessment of climate progress and help align national efforts with international climate goals.The reports were developed through strong collaboration between the UNEP Regional Office for West Asia and the Government of Iraq, with financial support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF). A national team comprising experts from various ministries, as well as contributions from national and international research institutions, played a key role in their preparation.In his remarks, Mr. Dimassi emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating:"Iraq today has a real opportunity to reshape its environmental future. Despite serious challenges ranging from water scarcity, land degradation, and rising temperatures to urban pollution and pressure on natural resources, we are confident in Iraq’s ability to become a success story in environmental transformation in our region, thanks to its human potential and strategic regional position.”Dr. al-Askari, reiterated that "this step constitutes a strategic move toward reducing carbon emissions, building a sustainable green economy, and increasing the resilience of communities affected by climate change." He emphasized that the Second National Communication report and the First Biennial Update Report represent one of Iraq's most important climate commitments, and reflect the government's approach toward adopting comprehensive and proactive climate policies.The SNC and BUR provide a detailed analysis of Iraq’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and outline efforts for their reduction. They also assess the impacts of climate change across critical sectors such as water, agriculture, and biodiversity, and set out national priorities and mechanisms for adaptation.The BTR presents a comprehensive and transparent overview of Iraq’s GHG emissions, progress towards achieving its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and the climate support requested and received in the form of technology transfer, capacity-building, and climate finance. As a key reporting tool under the Paris Agreement, the BTR contributes to the Global Stocktake, builds trust among Parties, and strengthens global accountability. UNEP’s Regional Office for West Asia supported the development process by organizing three capacity-building workshops for government officials and a national workshop to review and validate the findings.During the event, a third project that aims to accelerate the implementation of Iraq’s NDCs by building institutional and technical capacity at the governorate level was also launched. Funded by the NDC Partnership Action Fund, the planned activities include targeted training sessions for key stakeholders such as decision-makers, governors, local councils, and climate change departments.In accordance with the requirements of climate agreements, Parties are requested to submit a National Communication every four years and a Biennial Update Report (BUR) periodically. The Paris Agreement also established the Enhanced Transparency Framework for Action and Support, which requires the submission of a Biennial Transparency Report (BTR) every two years, replacing the BUR.About UNEP:The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable

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