The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:He notes that freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are fundamental rights that must be respected at all times. He appeals to all relevant actors to take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation, avoid any further violence, and ensure the protection of peaceful protesters and State institutions. The Secretary-General urges all parties and actors to rise above their differences and form, through peaceful and inclusive dialogue, an effective national Government that will be able to deliver on longstanding demands for reform, without further delay. The Secretary-General is following with concern the ongoing protests in Iraq today, during which many people have been injured.
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