“Effecting meaningful change will require time, as this can only take place through structural change that requires systemic socio-economic reform, more powerful institutions and better governance at all levels, ” she said. “No one can expect Iraq’s challenges to be resolved overnight, but I’d also like to see the glass half complete. ”
‘Glass half full’
The development of mine-action programmes is not a trip, but a destination, he said, emphasizing that the stark gap between rhetoric and action must be addressed. Attention is also needed in other vital areas, from significant environmental challenges to the transition from a humanitarian response to development.
Joint responsibilities
“Genuine commitment to human rights is crucial to any country, including Iraq, ” she continued. “Silencing, obstructing, dismissing or undermining constructive criticism tarnishes the image of the State and erodes public trust. ” Drawing attention to areas of concern, she said delays in much-needed economic reform are palpable, adding every-day pressure on the Iraqi people. Human being rights must also be upheld.
New Government’s achievements
Efforts are also under method to improve public service delivery and fight insidious systemic corruption, including on the recuperation of stolen funds plus related investigations, she said. She expressed strong support for the Prime Minister’s practice to make the country a platform for dialogue and expenditure. “It is of the greatest importance that will political parties and other stars prioritize the country’s attention above all else, ” she said. “At the end of the day, it is and remains a joint responsibility. ”
Systemic change is vital
“Overpromising and underdelivering can have dire effects, ” she cautioned, “and sugar-coating the situation will only add to feelings of frustration plus disillusion. ” Embracing Baghdad-Erbil relations, she mentioned the Iraq Government is usually committed to resolving differences, which includes introducing oil and gas legislation. However , swift compromises on outstanding fiscal, administrative, security plus electoral disagreements are urgently needed to bridge divisions amongst ruling parties in the Kurdistan Region. The parties “cannot afford to lose more time, ” she said.
Citing recent deadly incidents, he directed to an International Organization designed for Migration ( IOM ) report that will 1 . 2 million Iraqis are still displaced, with a slow return rate, as many say they can not return to their homes because of ordnance contamination.
Challenges ahead
Civil society needs support to contribute to the functioning democratic system, he said. Localization must be about ownership and empowerment, requiring effective planning and ensure tactical factors are integrated in programmes. Lately, due to numerous factors, donor funds are dwindling, threatening ongoing initiatives, he said. New priorities for donors in the post- COVID-19 era exist, however , Iraq still faces enormous problems. As such, national non-governmental businesses have been deeply affected plus their survival is really on the line. Instead, encouraging public talk enables institutions to flourish and adapt, she additional. Indeed, Iraq is one of the the majority of ordnance contaminated countries on earth. The EL Mine Action Service (UNMAS) reports that will Iraq has approximately two, 995 square kilometres of recorded contaminated areas. Rethinking and planning programmes along with partners must be aligned with national efforts and expedited, he said. Currently, mine-action plans completed in mid-2022 continue to be awaiting the Government’s recommendation. Accountability and managing public expectations are essential, she said, adding that systemic change will prove crucial.
Mine action obstacles
“The Mine Ban Convention obligations will not be met in the current conditions, ” Dr . Ahmed said. Ms. Hennis-Plasschaert furthermore heads the UN Assistance Mission with regard to Iraq ( UNAMI ), a special political mission founded in 2003. Its present mandate includes providing advice, support and assistance to the Government and people of Iraq on advancing inclusive political dialogue and reconciliation. UN Iraq Special Representative, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, visits Tahrir Square within Baghdad (file photo). Also briefing the Council, municipal society representative Dr . Ahmad, of the Iraqi Health and Interpersonal Care Organization, said forceful ordnance remains a major obstacle to stabilization efforts and development. Keeping in mind her earlier Council briefing in Oct , the Special Consultant reiterated that the window to act on several key issues will only be open for a limited time. In that vein, she urged the Government to take the necessary steps. “The legacy from the past and the many issues of the present will take time; no Government can go this alone, ” she said, recalling the tumultuous past two decades, including the 2003 bombing of UN headquarters within Baghdad that killed twenty two and injured 150 individuals only days after UNAMI was established.
Civil society requirements support
Highlighting recent achievements and challenges ahead following a year of tensions and political discord, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert said the hope would be that the confirmation of the new Authorities will provide an opportunity to structurally tackle the many pressing issues. She said that within the first three months in office, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has shown commitment. The new Government is tackling one of the most pressing challenges, including poor public service delivery and high levels of unemployment.
