UNAMI delegation visit to Nasiriyah Central Prison

On 21 and 22 December, a UNAMI delegation led by Ms Danielle Bell, Chief of Human Rights Office and Representative, UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) for Iraq, visited the Nasiriyah Central Prison, also known as ‘Al Hoot’.

It was the first time UNAMI is granted full access to the prison in Nasiriyah, and the visit is in line with UNAMI's mandate on the protection of human rights which allows access to monitor places of detention throughout Iraq. During the visit, the prison director, Mr. Hussain Ahmed Bnayah Al-Sa’edy, provided showcased examples of sports, educational and vocational facilities. The delegation also met with a number of inmates. UNAMI expressed hope these services could be expanded and be fully implemented for all detainees. UNAMI will continue its cooperation with the Ministry of Justice to address issues of overcrowding, limited provision of health services and family communication.