UNAMI Herald Volume 6, Issue 2 March—April 2019 in This Edition

UNAMI Herald

Volume 6, Issue 2 March — April 2019

Reviving public trust: A necessity

al change? Can we shy away from the lack of viable and responsive institutions, from the lack of capacity to follow-up on important decisions, from the deadlock between ruling elites, from the sectarian militarism, from the fragmentation along ethnic or religious lines? No, I would say, as all of this continues to play out at the expense of the Iraqi people. Ladies and gentlemen, The entire country feels proud when watching the Iraqi national football team play. At the same time, many people continue to tell me that they do not see how a national identity can go hand-in-hand with their other affiliations. So, one big question is: how can we Sulaymanyah, 6 March 2019 - The Clearly decades of conflict and eco- collectively promote a sense of pride Special Representative of the United nomic hardships have caused deep and confidence in the country? After Nations Secretary-General for Iraq scars in Iraqi society. Iraqis have all, Iraq needs a renewed sense of and head of the United Nations As- sacrificed a lot. And also the more patriotism to re-emerge stronger. sistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), recent sectarian legacies, ethnic ten- As divisions in the country remain an Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, sions and internal political strife underlying problem, part of the solu- attended the Sixth annual Sulaimani have added to the distrust among the tion must be to engage in sustained Forum: “Iraq and Its Neighbours: religious and ethnic groups, have and meaningful national and commu- Toward a New Regional Order”, held added to the distrust between politi- nity reconciliation to bridge the dif- in Sulaymaniyah. Here is the text of cal leaders and their constituents. ferences and grievances, to accept her keynote address: At the same time, in this period of others and - where needed - to apolo- Excellencies, post-conflict recovery, Iraq finds itself gise to others, to respect each other’s Ladies and gentlemen, at a critical juncture. Iraq finds itself special history, to build social cohe- In the invitation to this forum, it was on a path whereby realism and great sion and thus to move towards a stated that there are many political determination will be necessary in sense of national unity. and economic issues to be addressed facing the challenges ahead. And not Within this context, political, commu- in the aftermath of last year’s federal only that. Political and societal will is nity and religious leaders should play and Kurdistan regional elections. a precondition, obvious ownership a central role to build tolerance and Very true indeed. One can certainly and engagement of all Iraqi compo- counter extremist ideologies. For not deny that the road to well- nents and communities will prove leadership failures and the rise of deserved sustainable stability in Iraq crucial. And it goes without saying violence are closely connected. will be long and far from easy. that a sense of urgency to see and feel Community activists, including youth There are so many issues to be re- the need for a turn-around is essen- leaders, require much greater sup- solved. tial. port than at present. The lack of In this regard, I should begin by say- However, to date, the government meaningful participation by some ing that I will speak candidly today. formation remains incomplete in both minority groups is also of serious My comments aim to be both chal- Baghdad and Erbil. Nine months and concern. And excluding women from lenging and thought-provoking, so five months, respectively, after elec- the political process, is to ignore half that we can attempt - honestly and tions. of Iraq’s potential, half of Iraq’s tal- constructively - to address some of Political infighting and factional poli- ent and half of Iraq’s energy. The the deep-rooted problems within Iraqi tics seem to be the rule. Parliamen- country cannot afford to do that. processes and institutions. tary committees have yet to start The good news is that last year major Only by focusing on these systemic their substantive work. Is it any sur- political parties, for the first time in concerns will it be possible to revive prise that the sense of public disillu- national elections, did reflect upon public trust in the government, to sionment remains high? Is it any the diversity of Iraq and the need for revive public trust in state institu- surprise that people do not believe a national narrative. As a conse- tions and to restore faith in the na- that the political process serves them quence, the sectarian divides of the tion as a whole. or that it can bring about institution- past were replaced with cross- Volume 6, Issue 2 Political Affairs Page 2

Reviving public trust: A necessity (continued)

needs to promote regional security through expanded relations with its neighbours as well as others. And the ongoing sustained outreach to other states, rightly positioning itself as a reliable and capable partner, is the way forward indeed. A great piece of diplo- macy. Iraq can be the stabilising factor in a turbulent region. Indeed, Iraq can be the bridge, the arena for regional conciliation. At the same time, Iraq faces serious challenges in preventing its territory from being used as an arena for different competitions. It is imperative that Iraq be allowed to pursue its own national interests without outside inter- sectarian political alliances. ask for a functioning garbage disposal ference. Putting an extra burden on However, half of the voting population system to keep their streets free of Iraq is the last thing it needs. decided not to exercise its democratic trash. They call for a developed econo- Ladies and Gentlemen, right, thereby sending a strong signal my that allows youth to find jobs. They In conclusion, I believe that the key to of a growing grassroots scepticism over call for a balanced distribution of reve- national recovery and progress is whether politicians are able to meet the nues across the country. They call for through building public trust and social people’s expectations. proper education, for accountability, for cohesion, ensuring the delivery of pub- Ladies and gentlemen, justice. lic services, kickstarting the economy, Hundreds of millions of dollars in aid Law-abiding citizens are looking for tackling corruption and establishing and development-funding have poured reassurances. A woman needs to feel state institutions that are fit for pur- into Iraq in recent years, but living safe going down a street, speaking her pose, without delay. conditions across much of the country mind and dressing the way she wants. To achieve this, a sustained, construc- remain shockingly poor. A writer needs to be reassured that his tive dialogue among political factions, Iraq is a country with a very substan- life is not threatened for airing his components and communities is desper- tial revenue from its hydrocarbons sec- views in public. And parents need to ately needed, placing national interests tor and yet many of its citizens live in know that their children can go to above partisan interests. And as I said: poverty, illiteracy, ill-health and unem- school in safety. These are the basic obvious ownership and engagement of ployment. How is that possible? things in life. all Iraqi components and communities Part of the answer lies in corruption. And whether we like it or not, simmer- will prove vital. Political and societal Corruption is pervasive across all levels ing anger easily swells. And a failure to will - at all levels - is a precondition. in Iraq. One shall not be allowed to act will inevitably lead to a new cycle of Otherwise, the country risks leapfrog- unjustly enrich himself at the expense violence. ging from one crisis to another. of another. Yet, it is happening in so Ladies and gentlemen, Continued support from the interna- many ways. Another major concern with regard to tional community will be pivotal, too. I ‘Transparency International’ reported Iraq’s security and stability relates to will therefore continue to encourage the that out of 200 countries, only 12 are those armed groups operating outside international community to work along- more corrupt than Iraq. If the country state control, some of which have tran- side the United Nations to provide sup- is to retain and expand international sitioned to little more than criminal port to humanitarian, stabilization and investment and support this problem gangs, expanding their economic and development efforts. will need to be tackled urgently. Repre- social influence throughout the country. The UN family remains strongly com- sentatives of donor countries are con- For instance, and as we speak, Iraqi mitted to assisting the Government of tinuously telling me that they are get- citizens are confronted at illegal check- Iraq in all of these processes, in accord- ting tired of fighting the Iraqi system points by armed men extorting their ance with our mandate and in the infor the privilege of helping the country. money. Displaced people returning to terests of the Iraqi people. The fight against corruption will not be their homes are suddenly expected to Iraqi’s of all components and affilia- an easy one. But if there is any hope to pay so-called loyalty fees. Farmers in tions live here since time immemorial. I revive public trust the interests of the the fields are being forced to pay bribes sincerely hope that a tipping point will Iraqi people and the nation as a whole or lose their livestock. be reached where the people of Iraq, should be placed above individual en- These practices are adding to the many regardless of their ethnic, religious or richment. hardships that returnees and other political affiliation, commit to investing Ladies and gentlemen, vulnerable populations are already in a common destiny in an Iraq where Citizens call for tangible improvements experiencing on a daily basis. It is a peaceful coexistence is the norm, based in their everyday life. They ask for wa- very serious problem one cannot afford on respect for human rights and the ter that they can drink without fearing to ignore. rule of law. it will make them ill. They ask for hav- Resolute action against all this is of the I am optimistic by nature, and I stand ing access to irrigation water for agri- greatest importance for a stable Iraq, ready to serve. Iraq has immense op- culture. They ask for reliable electricity for boosting the morale of its people. portunities and great potential. This supply so they do not have to use ex- Ladies and Gentlemen, beautiful country, with all its diversity, pensive and polluting generators. They In addition to domestic stability, Iraq is truly close to my heart. Thank you. UNAMI Herald Volume 6, Issue 2 March—April 2019 In this edition ...

Films portray loss and human suffering as well Humanitarian Community appeals for US$701 as the resilience, beauty and strength of Iraqis, million to reach 1.75 million Iraqis with assis- says UN Human Rights Chief in Iraq at the 3 x 3 tance Film Festival Baghdad, 29 April 2019 - The humanitarian com- Baghdad, 07 March 2019 – The United Nations in munity in Iraq is appealing for US$701 million this Iraq commended Iraqi filmmakers, directors, actors, year to support 1.75 million highly vulnerable people, musicians and artists for the production of twenty-four including a million internally displaced persons, short films covering human rights issues in Iraq, as struggling with the legacy of conflict and mass- part of the 3 By 3 Film Festival held in Baghdad 3 to 5 displacement that engulfed the country from 2014 to March 2019. … More on page 28 2017. The 2019 Humanitarian Response Plan was launched at a conference on the return of displaced At IHEC Strategic Planning Workshop, DSRSG persons in Baghdad … More on page 42. Walpole emphasizes the importance of forward planning for elections Sulaymaniyah, 11 March 2019 – The Deputy Special “Iraqi Youth: Pioneers for Dialogue and Stabil- Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Secre- ity” workshops kick off in Basra tary-General (DSRSG) Alice Walpole addressed on Sun- day the opening of a strategic planning workshop attended by members of the Board of Commissioners and Basra, 28 April 2019 – At a three-day workshop in staff of the Independent High Electoral Commission Basra City, young Iraqi women and men from across (IHEC)… More on page 6 the governorate voiced opinions, hopes, concerns and suggestions about their role in advancing peaceful coexistence and addressing the challenges in their communities. The event was the first in a series of workshops under the theme “Iraqi Youth: Pioneers for Dia- logue and Stability”, which are taking place in locations across in Iraq throughout 2019… More on page 9

Government of Iraq, UNIT- President of the Republic of UNAMI Herald is published bi- AD conclude first Sinjar Iraq receives UN Resident monthly by the Public Information mass grave exhumation in Coordinator, UN Women Office of the United Nations Assis- Kojo village Representative following the tance Mission for Iraq. Baghdad, 21 March 2019 – signing of MoU on coopera- UNITAD (United Nations In- tion in areas of gender equal- PIO Director: Samir Ghattas vestigative Team to Promote ity and women’s empower- Editor-in-Chief: Ivan Djordjevic Accountability for Crimes Com- ment mitted by Da’esh/ISIL) an- Editorial Board: Samir Ghattas, Kha- nounced this morning the com- Baghdad, 17 April 2019 – H.E. lid Dahab, Ivan Djordjevic, Laila pletion of the first exhumation President of the Republic of Iraq Shamji, Celia Thompson, Sarmad Al- of a Yazidi mass grave in the Mr. Barham Salih received on Safy. Sinjar region, in the village of April 15, 2019 the United Na- Kojo. UNITAD reports that the tions Resident Coordinator in Photos: UNAMI PIO, UNHCR, UN- victims’ remains and associated Iraq, Ms. Marta Reudas, and UN CHR, UNICEF, IOM, OCHA, UN- evidence have safely arrived at Women Representative in Iraq FPA, WHO, UNESCO, UNOPS, UN the Medico-Legal Directorate in Ms. Dina Zorba, following the Habitat, UN Photo, UN Women, Baghdad… More on page 35. signing of a Memorandum of UNIDO, UNMAS, UNDP, WFP and Understanding between UN as credited. Women and the President’s Of- fice. The MoU provides a framework of cooperation in areas of In the UNAMI Herald articles are gender equality and women’s sorted according to the topic and in a empowerment.... More on page chronological order. 26 Volume 6, Issue 2 Political Affairs Page 4

SRSG Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert attended Iraqi Martyr's Day commemoration held in Baghdad

Baghdad, 9 March 2019 - The Spe- cial Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, attended today Iraqi Martyr's Day commemoration organized by the Al Hikma Na- tional Movement in Baghdad. Here is the text of the statement by the SRSG Hennis-Plasschaert at this event: Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, I am very honoured to join you on this special day, the day of the 16th anniversary of the martyrdom of Ayatollah Muhammed Baqir al-Hakim. We are gathered here to honour his memory first of all, the memory of Aya- tollah Muhammad Baqir al-Hakim, but also to honour the sacrifices of all martyrs of Iraq. Ayatollah Muhammad Baqir al-Hakim was a true leader for many, a leader And with this in mind, a renewed serving as an example for many. And it who dedicated his life to promoting sense of patriotism is not only possible can be done. unity, justice and equality in Iraq. but also necessary. It is necessary to Reviving Iraq’s glory will inspire its And he made the ultimate sacrifice, the re-emerge stronger. people regardless of their ethnic, reli- ultimate sacrifice for an Iraq in which Now the Iraqi people have overcome so gious or political affiliation. It will com- all Iraqis would be able to live without many major challenges, they have mand world-wide respect. fear and oppression. overcome violence and conflicts. A basic principle in life is that we need Ladies and Gentlemen, However, the country is yet to achieve each other to be our best. Respect all. It is of paramount importance to re- the dreams of the martyrs. Accept all. And unite all. Do good to member and not to forget and thus to Divisions continue to remain as an all. reflect upon the life of Ayatollah Mu- underlying and defining challenge to Ladies and Gentlemen, hammad Baqir al-Hakim, to learn and Iraqi society and politics. Ayatollah Muhammad Baqir al-Hakim to ensure that his sacrifice was not in Though bridging differences and griev- is more than a figurehead. He is above vain. ances will be the way forward, respect- all a great source of inspiration a man Following the military defeat of Da’esh ing and accepting each other’s special who inspires us to commit and to in- Iraq finds itself at a critical juncture. history. And so, it is of great im- vest in a common destiny. And really, in this period of post- portance to work closely together to So let us not forget. conflict recovery, the need for national build tolerance and a peaceful co- Let us remember. unity goes (in a way) without saying. existence. Let us honour. A sense of pride and confidence is also Ladies and Gentlemen, And let us continue. justified. Iraq has great qualifications. Iraq, with all its diversity, could be Thank you. Volume 6, Issue 2 Electoral Page 5

At IHEC Strategic Planning Workshop, DSRSG Walpole emphasizes the importance of forward planning for elections

to maximize the opportunities of having such experienced partners,” the DSRSG added. In his remarks, IHEC Chairman Maan Al-Hetawi recalled that this is the third strategic plan that IHEC has prepared. He underlined IHEC’s resolve to develop its capacities, to improve electoral processes and to continue efforts in building the trust of electoral stakeholders. He also expressed appreciation for the continued engagement of UN- AMI, UNDP and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) which all provided support to the workshop. In a press conference after the opening of the workshop, Chairman Maan confirmed that the IHEC Board of Commissioners had Sulaymaniyah, 11 March 2019 – The previous experiences, and to formulate proposed 16 November 2019 to the Deputy Special Representative for Iraq goals and objectives that are responsive Council of Representatives as the provi- of the United Nations Secretary- to the demands of electoral stakehold- sional date for Provincial Council elec- General (DSRSG) Alice Walpole ad- ers,” the DSRSG said. She highlighted tions. dressed on Sunday the opening of a areas for close consideration during the strategic planning workshop attended workshop, including the integrity of the by members of the Board of Commis- voter registry, the use of election tech- sioners and staff of the Independent nologies, the importance of public out- High Electoral Commission (IHEC). reach and the need for inclusive partici- She welcomed efforts by the IHEC to pation, particularly by women, minori- collectively and systematically discuss ty communities and those displaced and define its strategic direction for the from their areas of origin. next five years. “The UN and other international part- “In defining the future strategic direc- ners are beside you in developing and tion of the institution, it is important to implementing this strategic plan. I reflect and learn from the lessons of encourage the Commission to continue

On a visit to Fallujah, UNAMI urges women and youth to register to vote in provincial elections

Fallujah, 18 April 2019 – Iraqi voters Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Alice coordinates UN advice and technical have an opportunity to make their voic- Walpole, said today after touring a support for the Independent High Elec- es heard in upcoming provincial elec- number of voter registration centres in toral Commission (IHEC), commended tions, but they risk missing that oppor- Fallujah in Anbar Governorate. She the professionalism of the voter regis- tunity altogether if they do not register was accompanied by IHEC officials. tration centre staff and the smooth now, the Deputy Special Representa- Ms. Walpole, whose office in the UN process but expressed dismay at the tive (DSRSG) for Iraq of the United Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) low enthusiasm for registration, and urged in particular women and youth in Anbar to ensure that they are able to exercise their right when election day comes. “I’m a bit disappointed with the numbers of citizens who are registering, especially women and young people. People may not realise that they have to get themselves onto the voter register now if they wish to participate in elections later this year,” Ms. Walpole said. “We need to reflect more on how to target that population that has not yet registered to vote. The process itself has been much simplified and is very straightforward,” she added. In addition to the tour of the Voter Reg- istration Centres (VRCs), the Deputy Volume 6, Issue 2 Electoral Page 6

On a visit to Fallujah, UNAMI urges women and youth to register to vote in provincial elections (continued)

Special Representative called on the elections later this year,” Ms. Walpole Mayor of Fallujah City, Mr. Issa Sayer said. “We need to reflect more on how Al-Issawi, and local tribal leaders. to target that population that has not In preparation for the forthcoming pro- yet registered to vote. The process itself vincial council elections, IHEC is con- has been much simplified and is very ducting a voter registration update straightforward,” she added. (VRU) to give an opportunity for all In addition to the tour of the Voter Reg- eligible voters to check and update istration Centres (VRCs), the Deputy their voter registration records. There Special Representative called on the are 906 VRCs in the 15 governorates Mayor of Fallujah City, Mr. Issa Sayer that are not incorporated into regions Al-Issawi, and local tribal leaders. and, in addition to static VRC locations, In preparation for the forthcoming pro- IHEC also sends mobile teams to areas vincial council elections, IHEC is con- of difficult access and displaced camps. ducting a voter registration update As of mid-April 2019, IHEC reports Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Alice (VRU) to give an opportunity for all indicate that the cumulative total of Walpole, said today after touring a eligible voters to check and update voters with biometric registration ac- number of voter registration centres in their voter registration records. There counts for 51 percent of the total voters. Fallujah in Anbar Governorate. She are 906 VRCs in the 15 governorates Comparatively, Anbar has one of the was accompanied by IHEC officials. that are not incorporated into regions lowest biometric registration rate so Ms. Walpole, whose office in the UN and, in addition to static VRC locations, far: only 43 percent of the total number Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) IHEC also sends mobile teams to areas of eligible voters. coordinates UN advice and technical of difficult access and displaced camps. “I think that it is extremely important support for the Independent High Elec- As of mid-April 2019, IHEC reports in a country like Iraq, where so many toral Commission (IHEC), commended indicate that the cumulative total of voices have been forcibly silenced in the the professionalism of the voter regis- voters with biometric registration ac- past, that people take the opportunity tration centre staff and the smooth counts for 51 percent of the total voters. to choose their representatives; regis- process but expressed dismay at the Comparatively, Anbar has one of the tering now will ensure they can partici- low enthusiasm for registration, and lowest biometric registration rate so pate in elections as and when they urged in particular women and youth far: only 43 percent of the total number come up,” Ms. Walpole said. in Anbar to ensure that they are able to of eligible voters. exercise their right when election day “I think that it is extremely important Fallujah, 18 April 2019 – Iraqi voters comes. in a country like Iraq, where so many have an opportunity to make their voic- “I’m a bit disappointed with the num- voices have been forcibly silenced in the es heard in upcoming provincial elec- bers of citizens who are registering, past, that people take the opportunity tions, but they risk missing that oppor- especially women and young people. to choose their representatives; regis- tunity altogether if they do not register People may not realise that they have tering now will ensure they can partici- now, the Deputy Special Representa- to get themselves onto the voter regis- pate in elections as and when they tive (DSRSG) for Iraq of the United ter now if they wish to participate in come up,” Ms. Walpole said. IHEC sets up voter registration centres in camps to enable IDPs to register to vote in provincial elections

Esyan Camp, Duhok, 24 April 2019 – the Kurdistan Region from elsewhere this can only be achieved if they regis- Although the Kurdistan Region will not in the country by terrorism and recent ter now while they still have the oppor- be participating in Iraq’s upcoming conflict will nonetheless get an opportunity. provincial council elections, those Iraqi tunity to cast their ballots as though On 24 April 2019, the Deputy Special citizens who have been displaced into they were in their places of origin - but Representative (DSRSG) for Iraq of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Alice Walpole, visited mobile voter registration centres (VRCs) in Shariya and Esyan camps for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Duhok governorate in the Kurdistan Region to experience firsthand the ongoing IDP registration process, listen to suggestions and concerns, and understand better how the United Nations can assist. She also paid a call on the Independent High Electoral Commission’s Director for Duhok province, Mr Yousef Barwari, and his team to discuss some of the challenges facing IHEC in providing a registration service to Duhok’s huge Volume 6, Issue 2 Electoral Page 7

IHEC sets up voter registration centres in camps ... (continued)

IDP population (around 240,000 eligi- maximum participation. tion records. There are 906 VRCs in the ble voters). Mr Barwari accompanied In preparation for the forthcoming pro- 15 governorates that are not incorpo- Ms Walpole on her visit to the Esyan vincial elections, IHEC is conducting a rated into regions and, in addition to voter registration centre. voter registration update to give an static VRC locations, IHEC also sends Ms. Walpole, whose office in the UN opportunity for all eligible voters to mobile teams to less accessible loca- Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) check and update their voter registra- tions, such as IDP camps. coordinates UN advice and technical support for the Iraq Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC), commended the professionalism of all the IHEC staff she met, some of whom are delivering mobile registration services in very remote areas. She urged all eligible IDPs to register to ensure that their voice is heard. “If you register now, you can vote when the elections come. If you don’t, you risk not making your voice heard”, Ms. Walpole said. She discussed with IHEC’s local media outreach team and the Esyan and Shariya camp managers how best to announce and promote the registration process to camp residents. There was a widespread view that the registration period need to be extended to ensure

Reconciliation

Workshop on roles to strengthen social cohesion held in Fallujah

Fallujah, 27 March 2019 – UNDP Integrated Reconciliation Project in Iraq and Local Peace Committee in Fallujah conducted its first public session with 40 religious leaders on roles to strengthen social cohesion.

First forum of young media professionals held at Al Anbar University

Baghdad, 09 April 2019 - UNDP Inte- grated Reconciliation project has launched the first forum of Young Me- dia professionals in Al Anbar Universi- ty to hear and support on the role of the young professionals and the media in consolidating community cohesion and the use of news in rejecting intellectual extremism and promoting community peace. The Forum was a success with hundreds of attendees of media students and teachers at Anbar Universi- ty, professionals and journalists, representatives of satellite channels and news agencies. Volume 6, Issue 2 Reconcilliation Page 8 Iraqi Journalists’ Syndicate – Kirkuk Branch hosts media conference on coexistence and civil peace in Kirkuk

Kirkuk, 22 April 2019 - On 20 April, as school texts, are significant in recog- and maintain the principle of peaceful the Iraqi Journalists’ Syndicate – Kir- nising and respecting the history of coexistence through new generations. kuk Branch hosted a workshop on the different communities, prepare for co- The conference marked a positive step role of media in promoting coexistence existence and highlight the richness of in Kirkuk’s peaceful coexistence and and civil peace among different commu- the Kirkuk social fabric. In this regard, highlighted new goals of cooperation nities in Kirkuk. The event was attend- speakers emphasised the need to teach and the way forward. ed by journalists, media professionals, academics, intellectuals representing all communities, Iraqi Turkmen Front and Patriotic Union of Kurdistan politicians. Mr. Mohammed Daghistani, President of the Kirkuk Branch of the Syndicate highlighted the role of the media in promoting democratic principles, freedom of opinion and respect for diversity. Speakers recalled the role and responsibility of media to report events avoiding politicization, overcoming personal views, and working in the interest of the community. The use of different languages in the media was commended as a means to bridge differences. It was emphasised that media, as well

“Iraqi Youth: Pioneers for Dialogue and Stability” workshops kick off in Basra

Basra, 28 April 2019 – At a three-day participation in building social peace Deputy Special Representative for Iraq workshop in Basra City, young Iraqi and stability. They discussed strategies of the United Nations Secretary- women and men from across the gover- for dealing with conflict and how to General Alice Walpole underlined the norate voiced opinions, hopes, concerns apply these concepts when working to added value of youth participation in and suggestions about their role in ad- counter challenges, such as unemploy- Iraq’s post-conflict revival and wel- vancing peaceful coexistence and ad- ment, tribal conflict and climate comed the workshops as providing a dressing the challenges in their com- change, within their communities. significant opportunity for youth to munities. The event was the first in a On the third and final day, local politi- speak out on important national and series of workshops under the theme cal figures joined the young people in a local issues. “Iraqi Youth: Pioneers for Dialogue and dialogue on issues facing the gover- “Empowering young people, supporting Stability”, which are taking place in norate - opening a valuable communica- them and ensuring they can fulfil their locations across in Iraq throughout tion channel for the young activists potential is important in every society. 2019. with decision-makers and increasing But beyond this, if we are to create a Over two days, a diverse group of 20 the politicians’ awareness of youth more peaceful, sustainable and prosper- young women and men participated in needs and priorities. ous Iraq, we need young Iraqis to lead,” interactive sessions to discuss youth In her remarks at this final session, Ms. Walpole said. “The catalytic energy that young people can bring to resolve political or social deadlock should not be underestimated. We need you to build a peaceful, sustainable future Iraq, which will meet the aspirations of all its people. Today the floor is yours. We are listening.” The event on 26-28 April 2019 was organised by the United Nations Assis- tance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), in cooperation with the Higher Committee for Coexistence and Community Peace of the General Secretariat of the Coun- cil of Ministers and the Iraqi Al-Amal Association. The activity is in line with UNAMI’s mandate to support youth and their valuable contributions to the country. The next workshops will take place in Karbala and Babil governorates on 2-4 May. Volume 6, Issue 2 Political Consultations Page 9

The leadership of the United Nations, UNAMI, UNITAD and UN Country Team in Iraq continued intensive political consultations.

Paris, 25 February 2019 - For the first time ever, a President of Iraq has visited UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. President Barham Salih met today Baghdad, 04 March 2019 – The Special Representative for Iraq of the United with UNESCO Director-General, Ms. Audrey Azoulay. They talked about Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, met today with Iraq's reconstruction and discussed joint efforts to build a sustainable peace the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Iraq, Mr. Fatih Yildiz. They through culture and education. discussed the current political situation in Iraq and possible ways how Turkey can support United Nations efforts in the country for the benefit of the Iraqi people.

Baghdad, 4 March 2019 – The Special Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, met with Mr. Baghdad, 4 March 2019 - The Special Representative for Iraq of the United Christian Buck, Director for Near and Middle East and North Africa in the Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, met today with a German Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They discussed current situation group of Turkmen Committee Council members. They discussed the political in Iraq and the region and how Germany can support United Nations efforts in situation in the country with a special emphasis on the political representation the country. of the Turkmen component. Photo courtesy of Mr. Buck.

Baghdad, 5 March 2019 – The Special Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, met today with Baghdad, 4 March 2019 - Newly appointed UNHCR Representative to Iraq, Ms. Alaa Talabani, a member of the Council of Representatives and a member Mr. Ayman Gharaibeh, presented his credentials to H.E. Ambassador Saywan of the PUK Leadership Council. They discussed the current political situation Barazani at the Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Baghdad. in Iraq and in the Kurdistan Region with special emphasis on the need for greater women’s participation in the political sphere. Volume 6, Issue 2 Political Consultations Page 10

Baghdad, 10 March 2019 - Dr. Oluremi Sogunro, Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Iraq, met in Baghdad with Dr. Mahdi Al-Alaq, Secretary-General of the Iraq Council of Baghdad, 7 March 2019 – The Special Representative for Iraq of the Ministers. During the meeting, they discussed the upcoming census for United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, Iraq as well as the priorities for women and girls in Iraq. Dr. Sogunro met today with Mr. Jaafar Al-Husseini, Head of the Implementation and expressed the interest of donors and their continued commitment to Follow-up Committee on National Reconciliation. They discussed the support the upcoming programmes aimed at serving the development current political situation in Iraq and how the United Nations can and reconstruction sector and according to the priorities of the Iraqi support the work of the Committee and the reconciliation process in the government. Dr. Sogunro also called for Iraq's participation in the New country. York Development and Population Conference scheduled for 7-11 April 2019.

Photo courtesy of the Iraq Council of Ministers.

Baghdad, 13 March 2019 - Dr. Fadel El-Zubi, Representative to Iraq of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, Baghdad, 11 March 2019 - The Special Representative for Iraq of the and Mr. Paul Schlunke, met in Baghdad with Her Excellency Dr. United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, met today with Dr. Salim Al Jubouri, former Speaker of the Council of Sarbagh Salih, First Lady of the Republic of Iraq. Discussions focused on the UN FAO activities and programmes being implemented in Iraq, Representatives and Secretary General of the Civil Alliance for Reform. as well as the challenges that the country faces in the field of They discussed the current political and security situation in the country and the region. agriculture and available water resources.

Photos courtesy of the Office of the First Lady of the Republic of Iraq.

Baghdad, 18 March 2019 - The Deputy Special Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Alice Walpole, called today on Ambassador Hazem Al-Youssaifi, Undersecretary for Legal Affairs and Multilateral Relations in the Iraqi Foreign Ministry. Baghdad, 20 March 2019 - UNAMI and UN Women representatives DSRSG Walpole commended Iraq's continued search for the remains of met today with the Al-Amal Association civil society group to discuss Kuwaiti and other nationals missing since the 1990 invasion of Kuwait and explore possible areas of collaboration to advance the women, peace and reiterated the United Nations’ readiness to provide support and and security agenda in Iraq. expertise in the resolution of this dossier. She also commended the recent return of Kuwaiti property, recalled Kuwaiti hopes for the return of their National Archives, and offered support for the repatriation of further property as it is traced and identified. Volume 6, Issue 2 Political Consultations Page 11

Baghdad, 25 March 2019 - The Special Representative for Iraq of the Baghdad, 25 March 2019 - The Special Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, met with the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Iraq, Mr. met with the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Iraq, Mr. Maksim Maksimov. They discussed the current political and security Iraj Masjedi. They discussed the current political and security situation situation in Iraq and the Region with special emphasis on how the in Iraq and the Region stressing at the same time the cooperation both Russian Federation can support United Nations activities in Iraq for the sides extend to the Government of Iraq in supporting the country and its benefit of the country and its people. people.

Photo courtesy of the Embassy of the Russian Federation. Photo courtesy of The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).

Baghdad, 27 March 2019 - The Special Representative for Iraq of the Baghdad, 28 March 2019 - The Special Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, was received by His Excellency Prime Minister of Iraq, Mr. Adil Abdul- accompanied by UNAMI’s Head of Human Rights Section, Ms. Danielle Mahdi. They discussed the current political, security and humanitarian Bell, met today with Judge Faik Zeidan, President of the Supreme situation in the country and the region as well as Government future Judicial Council of Iraq. They discussed the efforts of the Supreme plans. Judicial Council for legislative reforms in compliance with international human rights standards, reiterating UNAMI’s readiness to provide Photo courtesy of the Office of the Prime Minister (Archive). advice and support if required.

Berlin, 28 March 2019 - Special Adviser to the United Nations Baghdad, 28 March 2019 - Special Representative for Iraq of the Secretary-General and Head of Investigative Team, Karim A. A. Khan United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, QC, met with former German ambassador to Iraq and Special Envoy for met today with His Eminence Ammar Al-Hakim, Head of the Hikma Crisis Prevention and Stabilization at the German Foreign Ministry, Movement. They discussed the current political situation in the country. Ambassador Ekkehard Brose and discussed matters related to UNITAD's ongoing work in Iraq. Volume 6, Issue 2 Political Consultations Page 12

Baghdad, 31 March 2019 - Mr. Aamir A. Arain, Director of UNAMI Electoral Assistance Unit and UN Principal Electoral Advisor, met with Tunis, 31 March 2019 – On the sidelines of the Arab Summit held in Mr. Emad Youkana, Advisor for Components Affairs to the Speaker of Tunis, the President of the Republic, Barham Salih, met with the the Iraq Council of Representatives. They discussed the issue of United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres. They discussed minorities and elections, previous elections, challenges and obstacles the role of the United Nations in Iraq in various humanitarian fields, faced by minorities, representation of minorities on the Iraq particularly in providing necessary assistance to refugees and displaced Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) Board of persons. Commissioners and electoral legal frameworks.

Photo courtesy of Assyrian Democratic Movement.

Erbil, 01 April 2019 – The Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) Office in Erbil, Mr. Ricardo Rodriguez Carbonell, was received today by Mr. Hemin Hawrami, Deputy Speaker Baghdad, 31 March 2019 – Dr. Oluremi Sogunro, UNFPA Representative to Iraq, visited today H.E. Salem al-Zamana, of the Kurdistan Region Parliament. They discussed the current political situation in the Kurdistan Region, including the government Ambassador of Kuwait in Iraq, with whom he discussed the 2020 Iraq formation. census and the Kuwaiti support to the Health sector in Iraq.

Photo courtesy of the Office of the Deputy Speaker of the KR Parliament.

Baghdad, 03 April 2019 - The Special Representative for Iraq of the Baghdad, 02 April 2019 - The Special Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, met today with Mr. Jamal al-Karbouli, Chairman of the Al-Hal met with the Speaker of the Council of Representatives, Mr. Mohammed Movement (National Movement for Development and Reform). They al-Halboosi. They discussed the current political situation in the country discussed the current political and humanitarian situation in the and latest developments in the negotiations to complete the process of country. the government formation. Photo courtesy of Al-Hal Movement. Volume 6, Issue 2 Political Consultations Page 13

Baghdad, 03 April 2019 - The Special Representative for Iraq of the Baghdad, 03 April 2019 - The President of the Republic of Iraq, H.E. United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, Mr. Barham Salih, received today in Baghdad the Special met today with the National Security Adviser, Mr. Falih Al-Fayad. They Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. discussed the current political and security situation in the country. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert. They discussed the current political, economic and humanitarian situation in the country. Photo courtesy of the Office of the President.

Baghdad, 3 April 2019 - Dr Oluremi Sogunro, UNFPA Representative to Iraq, met today with HE Nouri Sabah Al-Dulaimi, Minister of Planning, with whom he discussed the on-going preparations for the census 2020 and the technical support that UNFPA will provide in the process. During the meeting, which was also attended by a UNFPA delegation and the head of the Central Statistics Office, the Minister confirmed the commitment of the Government of Iraq to conduct the census in 2020, following the approval of the establishment of High Commission on Baghdad, 03 April 2019 - The Secretary-General of the Council of Census, yesterday. The UNFPA Representative reiterated UNFPA's Ministers, Dr Mahdi Al-Alaq, honored the outgoing UNICEF Iraq readiness to provide the required support for the preparation and Representative, Mr. Peter Hawkins, and thanked him for his work on implementation of the census. behalf of children, during his 3 and a half years in Iraq at a ceremony The Minister acknowledged the important contribution made by UNFPA held in Baghdad. during the humanitarian crisis, providing life-saving reproductive health and gender-based violence services. He also requested UNFPA's Photo courtesy of the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers. support in reviewing and updating Population Policy. At the end of the meeting, the Minister offered his support to celebrate UNFPA’s 50th anniversary and ICPD’s 25th anniversary and confirmed Iraq’s participation in the Nairobi summit in November.

Baghdad, 3 April 2019 - An IOM delegation led by IOM MENA Director, Ms. Carmela Godeau, and Senior Regional Advisor for MENA, Mr. Hassan Abdel Monam, met with senior Iraqi officials from different Tikrit, 3 April 2019 - The Human Rights Office of UNAMI met with ministries to discuss key priorities and challenges in post-ISIL Iraq and the President of the Salah al-Din Court, Hon. Judge Abud Hamdan, in partnership in providing assistance to vulnerable Iraqis. Tikrit City. Among the topics discussed were the challenges facing the judges and other court personnel because of the threat from ISIL as well Regional Director Godeau also briefed IOM Iraq donors in Baghdad. as the monitoring of trials by the Human Rights Office. They talked about protracted displacement, durable solutions for IDPs and priorities for the recovery of liberated areas in Iraq. Volume 6, Issue 2 Political Consultations Page 14

Tehran, Iran, 15 April 2019 - During her visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Special Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Amman, Jordan, 08 April 2019 - The Special Representative for Iraq Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, met today with the of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis- Iranian Foreign Minister, Mr. Mohammad Javad Zarif. They discussed Plasschaert, met today with the Minister of Foreign and Expatriate the current political, security and humanitarian situation in the region. Affairs of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Mr. Ayman Safadi. They The SRSG stressed the importance of cooperation between the countries discussed the UNAMI’s efforts to help Iraq achieve political, economic in the region. and social stability. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Foreign and Expatriate Affairs - The visit is in line with UNAMI's mandate to advise, support and assist Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. the Government of Iraq on facilitating regional dialogue and cooperation, including on issues of border security, energy, environment, water, and refugees.

Baghdad, 22 April 2019 - Deputy Special Representative of the New York, 26 April 2019 – The Special Advisor of the United Nations Secretary-General (DSRSG) for Iraq for Political Affairs and Electoral Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Investigative Team Assistance, Ms. Alice Walpole, was received by Mr. Hassan Karim al- to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da’esh/ISIL Kaabi, First Deputy Speaker of the Iraq Council of Representatives. (UNITAD), Karim A. A. Khan QC. They discussed how UNITAD is working with the Iraqi authorities to ensure accountability for ISIL and Accompanied by Mr. Aamir Arain, Director, UN Integrated Electoral other perpetrators of atrocities. The United States recently provided Assistance and UN Principal Electoral Advisor, DSRSG Walpole and UNITAD with $2 million to support its ongoing efforts. First Deputy Speaker Kaabi discussed the preparations in place for the forthcoming provincial council elections. Photo courtesy of the United States Permanent Mission to the United Photo courtesy of Iraq Council of Representatives. Nations.

International Women’s Day Joint statement by UN Women and UNFPA in Iraq on International Women’s Day

Baghdad, 8 March 2019 – Women in psychological and emotional consequenc- On this International Women’s Day, we Iraq and across the world are entitled to es due to the continuous displacement, call upon both governments to invest live in dignity, in freedom and without the traumatic events and the violence the further in the great potential of the wom- discrimination. Gender equality, a hu- violence caused by the protracted crises, en in Iraq to boost economic and social man right, plays a crucial role in sustain- threatening their ability to build a better development of the country. able development, peace and security. future for themselves, their families and UN Women and UNFPA renew their This year, the world celebrates women by their communities. The United Nations commitment to advancing gender equali- putting innovation at the heart of efforts estimates that there are 3,3 million wom- ty and empowering women in the areas of to achieve gender equality. The Interna- en and girls in need of humanitarian social protection and access to public tional Women’s Day theme for 2019: assistance in 2019 across the country. services across the country to improve the “Think Equal, Build Smart, Innovate for While the Government of Iraq and the lives of women, adolescents and youth, Change” highlights the role innovation Kurdistan Regional Government have enabled by population dynamics and plays in overcoming social barriers, accel- taken significant steps towards acknowl- human rights. erating progress for gender equality, en- edging women rights, women and girls couraging investment in gender-centred are yet to be given the opportunity to initiatives, and building services and contribute more effectively in shaping Dina Zorba, Representative, UN Women infrastructure that responds to the needs policies and making changes, especially Iraq of women and girls across the world. at a time when the country recovers from Dr Oluremi Sogunro, Representative, Women in Iraq have suffered from major three years of conflict. UNFPA Iraq Volume 6, Issue 2 International Women’s Day Page 15

Advancing women’s empowerment contributes to national stability, says DSRSG Walpole at International Women’s Day celebration

Baghdad, 07 March 2019 – Interna- tional Women’s Day was celebrated today at an event organized by the Di- rectorate for the Empowerment of Iraqi Women at the Council of Ministers. The event, which was supported by UN Women and the International Medical Corps, was attended by senior Iraqi government officials, including the two Deputy Speakers of the Council of Rep- resentatives, human rights activists, civil society representatives, the international community and many others. Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General (DSRSG) Alice Walpole addressed the meeting, along with Dr. Mahdi Al-Alaq, Secretary-General of the Council of Ministers, who represented the Prime Minister; Dr. Thikra Alwash, Mayor of Baghdad and Chair of the Standing she said, and called on the Ministries of erment in this way will contribute to Committee on the Advancement of Defence and Interior, and the National the government’s efforts to achieve Women; UN Women’s Representative, Operations Command, to “to ensure national stability,” she noted. Ms. Dina Zorba and UNFPA Repre- that secure clearance mechanisms are In her speech, Ms. Dina Zorba, UN sentative, Dr. Oluremi Sogunro; as well coordinated among security actors to Women Iraq Representative, affirmed as the Director-General of the Direc- minimize re-screening of individuals the agency’s support for efforts to em- torate for the Empowerment of Iraqi already screened; and to consider re- power women and remove obstacles Women, Dr. Ibtisam Aziz. moving security clearance require- facing them in all fields of life. In her remarks, DSRSG Walpole wel- ments for civilians who have not been She said the celebration comes to honor comed the upcoming discussions in charged with a criminal or terrorism- women, their achievements and their Parliament on updating the Anti- related offence, so they do not face ob- contribution in serving their society. It Domestic Violence Law. “We need to stacles in accessing public services, also comes a reminder of the obstacles acknowledge that domestic violence including civil registries and courts”. facing women and impeding them from diminishes and shames all of society; it DSRSG Walpole also noted the high achieving their potential in the service is a threat not just to women but to unemployment rate amongst young of their society, she said. society itself,” she emphasised. women, which is double that of men. Reflecting on the challenges facing dis- She called on the government to “offer ***** placed women across Iraq, DSRSG Wal- small business grants to female entre- pole noted that “They continue to suffer preneurs to help them into the business Following is the text of the remarks by the brutal consequences of the recent arena, in particular to women return- Ms. Alice Walpole at this event: conflict”. ees in the liberated areas, and those “Female-headed households should be heading households”. Ladies and Gentlemen, prioritised in accessing public services,” “Advancing women’s economic empow- Distinguished Guests, UN Colleagues, It is a pleasure to be here today on the eve of International Women’s Day, rec- ognizing, celebrating, promoting the contribution and achievements of Iraqi women. This year’s national theme, Social Protection and Economic Em- powerment of Women, provides an excellent platform for a frank discussion on the progress made in narrowing economic and social inequalities for women. I am particularly interested in the economic aspects of gender equality: Iraqi women still have limited access, compared with their male counterparts, to the labour force, to credit and other financing, and to property ownership rights. Ladies and gentlemen, The United Nations recognises and Volume 6, Issue 2 International Women’s Day Page 16

Advancing women’s empowerment contributes to national stability, says DSRSG Walpole … (continued) values the vital importance of the full, ing that Iraq is implementing its com- documentation, some the victims of meaningful engagement of women – mitments under international treaties sexual violence and abuse. Discrimina- half of the population, half of its talent and resolutions to combat violence tory practices and cruelty towards such - in Iraq’s political, economic, security against women and girls. We need to women, and a heavy stigma, inhibit and social decision-making. We can, acknowledge that domestic violence them from accessing courts, civil regis- and we must, do more to promote wom- diminishes and shames all of society; it tries and other public services, includ- en’s full participation in the life of Iraq. is a threat not just to women but to ing social welfare benefits. This country simply cannot afford to society in general. I therefore, on this International Wom- ignore or under-use all their experi- Let me turn to economic issues. The en’s Day, urge the Ministry of Defence, ence, knowledge and expertise. unemployment rate for young women is National Operations Command and We have accordingly prioritized the double that of men. Iraq’s private sector Ministry of Interior to ensure that se- promotion of women’s political partici- is not yet able to generate the invest- cure clearance mechanisms are coordi- pation in our engagement with senior ment and enterprise growth needed to nated among security actors to mini- Iraqi interlocutors. Getting women into create employment and reduce Iraq’s mize re-screening of individuals al- senior political roles will help open the high level of dependence on oil reve- ready screened; and to consider remov- door to a richer engagement by women nues and public sector employment. We ing security clearance requirements for in other areas of Iraqi public life. Cur- need to see a rapid expansion of the civilians who have not been charged rent discussions in Parliament and private sector to generate significant with a criminal or terrorism-related within the Independent High Electoral employment opportunities for women. I offence, so they do not face obstacles in Commission on amendments to the warmly encourage the government to accessing public services, including civil Political Parties Law offer a good op- offer small business grants to female registries and courts. Female-headed portunity to establish legally binding entrepreneurs to help them into the households should be prioritized in provisions – for example, quotas - that business arena, in particular to women accessing public services. enhance the political participation of returnees in the liberated areas and Ladies and gentlemen, women. those heading households. Advancing The fight for gender equality should not Meanwhile, male political leaders must women’s economic empowerment in be restricted to International Women’s defend and promote the political, eco- this way will contribute to the govern- Day. We must sustain our efforts nomic and legal space for women. Leg- ment’s efforts to achieve national sta- throughout the year to fight for Iraqi islators must remove legal obstacles bility. women’s rights. To break down the hindering women’s participation in all Ladies and gentlemen, barriers hindering their political eco- spheres of life. I have met several male International Women’s Day cannot nomic and social participation in the champions of gender equality among pass in Iraq without some reflection on life of this country. For our part, the Iraq’s political ranks. I call on them to those many women in this country who United Nations will continue to provide advocate for the consideration of Iraq’s remain displaced from their homes, technical support for the development many qualified women for senior public some of whom are living in intolerable of the second Iraqi National Action roles. Although, disappointingly, we circumstances. You will be aware of the Plan on women, peace and security; have yet to see any women appointed to challenges faced by displaced communi- and continue urging the government to ministerial roles, let us concentrate ties, notably, women-headed house- establish a formal commission, fully fresh effort on supporting women into holds, widows, female victims of authorized and properly funded, to other senior appointments - deputy Da’esh, women returnees, women who coordinate implementation of the Plan ministerial posts; chair-ships of parlia- have, rightly or wrongly, been per- and national frameworks and policies. mentary committees; leadership roles ceived as affiliated with extremists. We look forward to collaborating with within political party structures; senior They continue to suffer the brutal con- you. In the words of Gloria Steinem, judicial positions; ambassadorial ap- sequences of the recent conflict. For world-renowned women’s rights activ- pointments. example, widows face challenges in ist: “the story of women’s struggle for Ladies and gentlemen, securing death or missing persons cer- equality belongs to no single activist The advancement of women is, of tificates for their husbands; women nor to any one organization but to the course, not just about ensuring female perceived to have ties with Da’esh must collective efforts of all who care about representation at the highest levels of undergo multiple rigorous security human rights.” Let us show that collec- society. It’s about ensuring that the screening and clearance processes; oth- tive effort. ordinary woman in the street is able to ers exist in a limbo without personal Thank you. maximise her individual potential, to make the very best of her life, to make the greatest possible contribution to her community. In this context, I want to mention the issue of violence against women and girls, which not only denies their rights, it prevents them from fully participating in society. I very much wel- come ongoing parliamentary discussion to update and finalise the Anti- Domestic Violence Law. This will be a vital step for the government in ensur- Volume 6, Issue 2 International Women’s Day Page 17

International Women's Day 2019 marked in Baghdad by IOM and UNMAS

Baghdad, 09 March 2019 – The Unit- of Iraqi women from diverse communi- ed Nations family in Iraq marked Inter- ties in panel discussion, and hold a national Women’s Day today in Bagh- photo exhibition, showing Iraqi women dad, Iraq. The event was organized by in action, their resilience in displace- the International Organization for Mi- ment, and recovery after returning to gration (IOM) and United Nations their homes. Mine Action Service (UNMAS) at The Remarks were provided by Dr Joanne Station Foundation for Entrepreneur- Loundes, Australian Ambassador to ship and was supported by the Embas- Iraq, Mr. Pehr Lodhammar, Senior sy of Australia, the Embassy of Cana- Program Manager for UNMAS in Iraq, da, and the European Union Delegation and Ms. Gudrun Kroner, IOM Head of in Iraq. Liaison and Programmes in Iraq. It was an opportunity to hear the voice SRSG Hennis-Plasschaert: “Iraq cannot afford to exclude women from the political process and ignore half of Iraq’s potential!”

Baghdad, 14 March 2019 - The Spe- process for government formation fol- opportunity to enhance the political cial Representative for Iraq of the Unit- lowing last year’s national elections participation of women” continued ed Nations Secretary-General, Ms. and that not one single woman has SRSG Hennis-Plasschaert . “There are Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, attended been confirmed in a ministerial role in so many qualified Iraqi women. Iraq on 10 March 2019 the celebration of the Iraqi government. She added that has great female potential and this International Women’s Day organised Iraq cannot afford to exclude women country cannot afford to lose it. So, under the patronage of the Speaker of from the political process and ignore please, just use it!" the Council of Representatives, Mr. half of Iraq’s potential. Mohammed Al-Halbousi. “Current discussions in the Parliament SRSG Hennis-Plasschaert, also attend- SRSG Hennis-Plasschaert underlined and within the Independent High Elec- ed the International Women's Day cele- that Iraqi women have played a very toral Commission on amendments to bration hosted by the Iraq Ministry of limited role in the decision-making the Political Parties Law offer a good Foreign Affairs on 14 March 2019. Volume 6, Issue 2 International Women’s Day Page 18 International Women’s Day celebrations in Iraq

Iraq, 08 March 2019 — IOM celebrat- paintings and handcrafts by women. Iraq. The event aimed at empowering ed it at the Community Resource Cen- Women from the displaced and host women economically through access to tre in Falluja. Falluja’s district mayor communities showcased handicrafts employment and income generation and many returnees attended the cele- and artworks in a Bazaar/trade show opportunities. The event was facilitated bration. The celebration included poet- during the International Women’s Day by IOM Iraq. ry and presented artworks such as event held in Erbil, Kurdistan Region,

Gender International Gender Group for Iraq met in Baghdad

Baghdad, 4 March 2019 – The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) hosted today the Internation- al Gender Group (IGG), which is a coordination mechanism of the international community for advancing the women, peace and security agenda, in line with the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325. The Special Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, who chaired the meeting, noted that it was important that the IGG promoted common messages to amplify women’s voices. During the meeting participants discussed efforts to increase women’s role in decision making in Iraq, the implementation of the National Action Plan on 1325, preparations for the An- ti-Domestic Violence Law as well as civil documentation issues of IDPs.

Leadership, Women and the UN programme strikes a chord

Torino, Italy, 10 March 2019 - 245 attended last week this program. leadership agents across the UN sys- women from various countries across The Leadership, Women and the UN tem. The fact that we’ve already wel- the globe including Peru, Venezuela, programme was created in 2015 in re- comed so many women from all over Jamaica, United States, Switzerland, sponse to the underrepresentation of the world and that they value our Sweden, Austria, Azerbaijan, Israel, women leaders in the UN system and training for their personal and profes- Saudi Arabia, Congo, Chad, India, Ma- the need for a forum for female UN sional growth is a great success,” said laysia, Thailand, Fiji and other 57 duty staff at the P4 and P5 level to learn, Ariane Sabet, Course Coordinator at stations have attended the Leadership, share and act. UNSSC in charge of the programme. Women and the UN programme in the “Our goal was to design a programme Since 2015, participants from over 45 past three years. not only equipping UN female staff UN agencies and departments have Head of Programme Office for UNMAS with successful leadership approaches been attending this programme annual- in Iraq was one of the 46 participants and experiences, but also building a ly to gain a better understanding of from more than 15 UN Agencies who strong supportive network of female different approaches to leadership as Volume 6, Issue 2 Gender Page 19

Leadership, Women and the UN programme strikes a chord (continued)

well as the gender aspects of leader- The programme has struck a chord I left the course with an action plan ship. The programme provided them with women across the UN family and that I am implementing and tracking. the opportunity to increase their self- resulted in a 100 % recommendation And the extra bonus was getting to awareness through a 360-degree lead- rate. The acting Chief of Staff for the know so many interesting and accom- ership assessment and personality pro- World Health Organization (WHO) and plished women. Highly recommended!” file, and develop a set of skills and com- former Leadership, Women and the UN Motivated by the positive feedback, the petencies in communication for trans- participant, Ms. Erin Maura Kenney, Leadership, Women and the UN pro- formative and charismatic leadership, stated: “Leadership, Women and the gramme has been expanding its geo- effective negotiation, and change. It has UN is an excellent course – very well graphical reach and increasing the also been creating a unique space for organized and facilitated, top notch number of yearly editions. Thus, in UN female staff to learn from each oth- speakers, practical and results orient- 2018, we are happy to bring it closer to er’s experiences and build lasting rela- ed. I have concretely strengthened my our cherished audience in Vienna, Tu- tionships. leadership skills and my working style. rin, Geneva and Cairo.

A woman even here: The story of Nadia Mahmoud from Iraq

Baghdad, 10 March 2019 - Nadia was “There was no food and no water, and economic hardship that is a staple of only 16 when she grabbed her toddler our children got sick,” Nadia said, conflict-torn communities. The medical and fled her house in Huwaija, Iraq, “Most families were ruined.” complications of pregnancy and child- while five months pregnant. ISIS had Nadia was getting closer to her due birth come hand in hand with child taken over their town two years earlier date. So, Nadia’s family decided to marriage. Such complications are the and, on this fateful night, persistent make a final push for Debaga despite leading cause of death for adolescent bombing drove Nadia and many other the fear and they finally made it to the girls aged 15-19. families out from their houses in the camp. Pregnant women on the move and in middle of the night. Upon arriving in Debaga, Nadia went difficult-to-reach areas run a higher “I was afraid I was going to miscarry, to the UNFPA reproductive health clin- risk of maternal mortality and morbidi- and I soon ran out of milk for my son,” ic where she delivered her second child: ty. Overall, a woman dies every 3 Nadia recalled, “After five hours of a daughter she named Sewar. She also minutes from pregnancy and childbirth walking, we heard ISIS fighters set up frequents a safe-space for women and complications in humanitarian emer- a trap to capture us and we knew they girls in the camp where she learns sew- gencies. This means over 500 women would kill those who are caught. So, I ing and has a chance to socialize with losing their lives every day for mostly turned around and went home. Our other mothers. preventable causes. fear got the best of us.” Nadia is one of the millions of women Four years after fighting first broke out Growing up, Nadia had pictured a very and girls in the Arab region whose in her small town, the 18-year-old Na- different future for herself. She had a lives, dreams and plans for the future dia now finds it difficult to speak of the single, simple dream: to become a were unexpectedly interrupted by wars future. school teacher. But the fighting forced they didn’t start. In such situations, “I don’t know how to describe my her out of school. One year after ISIS’s Nadia’s predicament is not a rarity. dreams to you,” Nadia said, “Life in the arrival, she was married off to an older Girls are more likely to leave school camp is sometimes good and sometimes man. than boys their age when disasters not, but I dream of going home.” “I was forced. I was just a child, only 15 strike. They are also 90% more likely to In 2018, UNFPA reached 742,469 peo- years old. I didn’t want to be married,” drop out of school than girls who live in ple with reproductive health services Nadia said as anger flashed briefly conflict-free countries. and provided support to 296,773 to across her young face. Child and forced marriage rates tend to survivors of gender-based violence Eight months into the marriage, her rise in humanitarian emergencies as through 76 maternal health facilities husband was taken by ISIS and she families pressure their daughters to and 108 safe spaces for women and never heard of him again. She was al- marry for protection or to alleviate the girls. ready pregnant when he disappeared. She was married again soon after, this time as a second wife. She was 16 when she became pregnant for the second time and had to embark on that first failed attempt to flee her home. Soon after, she decided to make one more attempt to reach Debaga camp for the internally displaced- a 15-hour walk. She left with her toddler and her husband and many more families from Huwaija. Halfway to Debaga, they stopped, too scared to move forward and unable to turn around. They set up an impromptu encampment in the middle of nowhere where they stayed for a few months. Volume 6, Issue 2 Gender Page 20

Iraq participated at the 63rd session of the Commission on the Status of Women

New York, 13 March 2019 – Iraq tions, the Special Representative of the ment of Iraq, Member States and the participated at the 63rd session of the Secretary-General on sexual violence in United Nations could work towards the Commission on the Status of Women. conflict, the office of the United Nations implementation of the national action During the session, Dr. Thikra Alwash, Entity for Gender Equality and the plan pursuant to Security Council reso- Head of Iraq delegation at the 63rd Empowerment of Women (UN-Women) lution 1325 (2000) and the joint com- session (and Mayor of Baghdad), in Iraq and the Grace Initiative, where muniqué between the United Nations chaired the round table discussion under the theme of “Iraqi women at the and the Government of Iraq on the pre- “Good practices and policies for plan- helm of rebuilding, peace and stability”, vention of and response to conflict- ning, provision and implementation of participants discussed how the Govern- related sexual violence. social protection public services and sustainable infrastructure including promotion of women representation in various sectors”. The Commission on the Status of Wom- en (CSW) is a functional commission of the UN Economic and Social Council. 63rd session (#CSW63) took place on 11-22 March 2019 in New York. Dr. Thikra Alwash met with Ms. Pra- mila Patten, United Nations Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, at the UN headquarters. They discussed the mechanism of implementing the joint communiqué 2016. On the margins of the 63rd session a side event was organized at the Head- quarters by the Permanent Missions of Germany and Iraq to the United Na- Baghdad Mayor: I hope women occupy 50% of all positions

The current session of the United Na- support not only at the material level, tions Commission on the Status of Wom- but at the level of training on how to en focuses on social protection systems, reach the decision-making stage. access to public services, sustainable Ms. Thikra touched upon the impact on infrastructure for gender equality and Iraqi women by the "economic blockade the empowerment of women and girls. and many wars, the most recent of which Alwash said the theme of this year's was the vicious attack against humanity” session is in line with the fact that wom- that Iraq experienced, pointing out that en's economic empowerment is achieved ISIL control over some Iraqi cities had a only through enabling her access to so- significant impact on Iraqi women and cial welfare systems consistent with increased the number of women in need their environment, as well as the estab- of welfare systems due to the displace- lishment of appropriate infrastructure to ment of a large number of families and New York, 16 March 2019 - "Iraqi enable them to access the necessary eco- the vulnerability of women to violence women have been subjected to many nomic resources. and the increase in poverty. setbacks in order to obtain their rights, She said it is the Iraqi constitution that She added: "We have women who are but in every setback, they proved to be helped women to be distinct. "The Con- victims of terrorism and sacrificing wom- strong and able to rise again," said stitution, in most of its paragraphs, ad- en just like the Iraqi soldiers who fight Mayor of the Iraqi capital Baghdad dresses the issues of gender equality, ISIL, those who became breadwinners of Thikra Alwash, pointing out that Iraqi rights, empowerment and care of wom- their families and thus became the fa- women are always ambitious and able to en,” she added. “It ensured a minimum of ther and mother in the family." The Iraqi do a lot. 25% of seats in the House of Representa- official expressed her hope that this con- The statements of the Iraqi official came tives for women. So, we have eighty- ference will help her country to get rid of during an interview with United Nations three women MPs in the Iraqi parlia- ISIL legacy. News on the sidelines of the 63rd session ment and this is a very excellent number She mentioned Iraq’s participation in the of the United Nations Commission on the at the Pan-Arab and regional levels." Levant Conference with Lebanon and Status of Women, where she chaired the Alwash said that the Iraqi woman has Jordan, where the World Bank, with the delegation of her country participating in always been the initiator, noting that assistance of the Canadian government these meetings. Baghdad Mayor, who “the first woman minister in the Arab and UN Women, funded an ambitious also serves as the Head of the Higher world and the Middle East was Iraqi." five-year programme that increases Committee for the Advancement of Iraqi Baghdad Mayor pointed out that the women's participation in the labour mar- Women, pointed out that Iraq participat- national strategy against violence and ket to 19-25%, while it is currently ed with a distinguished delegation in- poverty ensured women some of their stands at 14.5%, a very low percentage, cluding legislative and executive authori- rights to enable them to rise again, not- according to Ms. Thikra. ties as well as civil society organizations. ing that Iraqi women need international By UN News Volume 6, Issue 2 Gender Page 21

Iraq Ninewa Plains and Dyala Women Peace Group launched

Baghdad, 17 March 2019 – Thirty- in collaboration with the Supreme Peace Group to agree on the new vision, eight women from Ninewa Plains Committee for Cohesion and Communi- objectives and activities - led by SIRI joined the launch of Ninewa Plains ty Peace/COMSEC. project in collaboration with Supreme Women Peace Group as one of the com- Ten days later, 31 women from differ- Committee for Cohesion and Communi- munity mechanisms to promote peace ent backgrounds in Diyala attended the ty Peace/COMSEC. The activity was in the area, led by UNDP’s SIRI project activation workshop of Diyala Women facilitated by UNDP Iraq.

Helping women in Kurdistan region of Iraq to find jobs

almost 80% are employed in the public participated in the coaching interven- sector, with only about 1 in 100 work- tion exerted more effort in their job ing-age women working in the private search. Job seekers who engaged in sector. More than half of non-working three or more coaching sessions spent 4 women (54%) want to work. About 10% more hours per weeks searching for a have worked before, but many stopped job. Formal job search channels such as working because they were laid off. online job portal and job placement Piloting solutions centers are still not widely used by job To combat all these challenges, the seekers. Many continue to rely on per- World Bank team helped the Kurdistan sonal contacts (family and friends) to Regional Government (KRG) to launch find a job, limiting their options to a the first family-friendly policy competi- much smaller pool. tion for private sector companies. Be- Moving forward Erbil, 21 March 2019 - “Having a job cause legislative reforms take time, the The Kurdistan Region Government is makes me feel better emotionally and intervention was designed to raise committed women’s economic inclusion. financially.” “There is no one to help me awareness and incentivize companies The government’s most recent reform find a job and I have family responsibil- to adopt the proposed family friendly framework, the KRG Vision 2020, sets ities. That’s why I am unemployed.” policies. A selection committee com- out several policies to boost women’s These two statements from two young posed of academia and experts in labor economic participation and to support women encompass the major senti- market and gender evaluated the appli- girls’ education. These were the policies ments regarding women’s employment cations and awarded 7 companies for included: expanding business opportu- in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI): their efforts to adopt the policies. This nities for women by enabling work- women want to find a job, but they face type of incentive has been done in sev- from-home schemes, promoting child- many barriers to getting one, according eral countries around the world, includ- care centers, and ensuring equal oppor- to our recent World Bank pilot project. ing the UK, Australia, and the UAE. It tunity under the law. The KRG Vision The statistics works in many countries where women 2020 also calls for ensuring labor mar- To delve into the background, the fe- are unable to break through a certain ket intermediaries (ensuring training, male labor force participation rate in sector or industry. The awards typically assistance, and financial programs) Kurdistan is one of the lowest in the vary from financial to social recogni- take into consideration issues that are world at 14% (as measured in 2015). tion. unique for women. KRI women have been profoundly im- The World Bank also partnered with The World Bank pilot project in KRI pacted by the financial crisis, political Rwanga Foundation which maintains also provides 15 actionable recommen- instability, and ongoing conflict nearby. an online jobs portal for KRI and pro- dations to reduce the barriers, among The unemployment rate significantly vides face to face job search training to them are updating and enacting the increased in 2015, particularly among job seekers. Students and other job draft Labor Law, ensuring effective young women, reaching 69% for those seekers were recruited from universi- implementation of the laws, repeating aged under 24 (compared to 24% for ties and job fairs to register on their the yearly award for companies, in- men) and 36% for women aged 25-34 portal (called Rwanga Foras portal), creasing visibility of women in the pri- (compared to 11% for men). Of those and employers in KRI were invited to vate sector through communication unemployed women, more than 1/3 post new opportunities each month. campaigns, establishing childcare sup- third hold post-secondary school de- The intervention consisted of providing port program, and supporting expan- grees, compared to 25% of unemployed a phone coaching support to existing sion and enhancement of formal job men. female job seekers for six weeks. channels and labor market intermedi- And of the women who are employed, While attrition was high, those that aries. Volume 6, Issue 2 Gender Page 22

Workshop for Women's Advisory Group on Reconciliation and Politics in Iraq commences in Baghdad

Baghdad, 23 March 2019 - A three- day targeted skills-building technical workshop, planning and bonding activity for the 22-member Women’s Adviso- ry Group (WAG) for Inclusive Reconcili- ation and Politics in Iraq, commenced today in Baghdad. The workshop, which runs until 25 March 2019, is organised by the office of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) Senior Gender Advisor and the United Nations Department of Peacebuilding and Political Affairs (DPPA) Iraq and Gender Teams, with facilitation support provided by a Sen- ior Mediation Adviser from the UN Standby Mediation Team/Mediation Support Unit. The Women's Advisory Group (WAG) tinue to be underrepresented and re- fenders, media experts, former politi- on Reconciliation and Politics, was es- main excluded from political and deci- cians and civil society activists, and tablished in October 2018 with the sup- sion-making processes in Iraq despite represent a variety of interests, politi- port of the United Nations Assistance their active role in society. cal backgrounds and regions. Mission for Iraq (UNAMI). The Group The Group comprises 22 members who On the second day, participants en- is expected to lobby for the advance- have been selected in their individual gaged in a vibrant group discussion on ment of women’s role in politics and capacities for their skills and experi- women's inclusiveness in the political making their voices heard. Women con- ence. They include human rights de- process. Volume 6, Issue 2 Gender Page 23

Women Advisory Group met in Baghdad to discuss the priorities, planning and activities of the group for 2019

Baghdad, 25 March 2019 – The Spe- cial Representative for Iraq of the United Nations Secretary-General and Head of UNAMI, Ms. Jeanine Hennis- Plasschaert, participated today in a dialogue with the members of the Women Advisory Group (WAG) to discuss the priorities, planning and activities of the group for 2019. The SRSG called on the WAG to be bold, persistent and patient in its fight for gender equality, noting that “Iraqi women must not wait for men to include them in political and decision-making processes and appoint them to leadership positions”. Rather, they must mobilize popular support through outreach, engagement and the use of social media, as well as exert political pressure at the highest political levels. The SRSG reiterated her personal commit- draft annual workplan for 2019-2020 aims to ensure that the voices, con- ment to support the WAG’s priorities which included priorities to advance cerns, expertise and experiences of with the strong support of her two the Women, Peace and Security file. Iraqi women are included in political deputies and UNAMI. The WAG, inaugurated with the sup- processes, based on the principles of The interactive dialogue followed a port of UNAMI in January 2019, is a peaceful co-existence, respect for three-day skills-building workshop political inclusion mechanism which diversity and non-discrimination. that brought together the WAG members with the political, electoral and communication components of the Mission. The sessions were facilitated by a member of the Standby Team of Senior Mediation Advisers, with support from the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) and UNAMI. During the discussions WAG members highlighted their concerns regarding the absence of women in the Cabinet and decision-making and leadership roles, while emphasizing the urgency for legislative reforms to widen the space for women in political processes. They consolidated their views on a Volume 6, Issue 2 Gender Page 24

Empowering women in Iraq through Gender Equality Tool Seal

Baghdad, 5 April 2019 - Gender powerment Directorate and MoP con- behind. This pilot is an opportunity for mainstreaming is the cornerstone of ducted a workshop on 7th Jan. 2019 in Iraq to share its work globally, and development and peacebuilding, it occu- Baghdad, attended by 39 representa- advance gender participation within pied a very important part in SDGs and tives from the gender units of line min- public-sector institutions”. Agenda 2030. The United Nations De- istries. The workshop presented the This workshop was part of the efforts to velopment Programme (UNDP) had Tool of Gender Equality Seal in order to integrate SDG 5 into policies and plans, developed an assessment tool to track enhance the capacities of Women Em- UNDP cooperation with gender units gender equality in the public institu- powerment Department to implement on the Gender Equality Seal Tool which tions, in order to create a baseline and the tool in Public Sector, and discussed has been developed by UNDP to meas- to prioritize the work for the coming the important of Gender Statistics as ure Gender Mainstreaming within in- years. This tool is divided into six parts well as it presented the gender main- stitutions will create solid working related to tracking progress on gender streaming into the national develop- places. equality goals: Framework, capacities, ment plans and strategies. It was men- Gender mainstreaming is considered as enabling environment, partnership and tioned by the Deputy Country Director one of the main pillars of the mandate engagement, laws, policies and pro- Mr. Vakhtang Svanidze that: “UNDP of gender departments, in coordination grammes and results and impact. chose Iraq to be part in this pilot as we and follow up with gender units and A workshop was held on Public Sector believe that the Government of Iraq departments within Iraqi’s ministries Gender Equality Seal in Dec. 2018, in had taken critical steps towards gender and provinces. this tool will be the bed- addition to two consultations meetings equality and women empowerment in rock for true and genuine work to em- with the Women Empowerment Direc- different levels, in additional to its ef- power women in Iraq. torate in the General Secretariat for forts to implement the sustainable de- the Council of Ministries and the Min- velopment goals and leaving no one By Sundus Abbas, UNDP Iraq istry of Planning (MoP), to choose the public institutions which will be assessed. As a result, the Women Empow- erment Directorate was chosen as an implementer for the Gender Equality Tool, due to its mandate in empowering women in Iraq, and for being the um- brella for gender units and departments all over the ministries, which can be used to implement the tool. Deputy Minister of Planning, Dr. Ma- her Johan, stressed the importance to adopt the Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 agenda, particularly SDG 5 which states on achieving gender equality and empowering women, and SDG 16 which states on promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, and also agreed on selecting MoP as a sample. UNDP in cooperation with Women Em- Volume 6, Issue 2 Gender Page 25 UN Women, Office of the President of the Republic of Iraq sign MoU to promote gender equality, empowerment of women

Baghdad, 17 April 2019 – UN Women in Iraq and the Office of the President of the Republic of Iraq signed a Memo- randum of Understanding on 15 April 2019 providing a framework of cooperation in areas of gender equality and women’s empowerment. The MoU, signed by UN Women Repre- sentative Dina Zorba and the Iraqi President’s Adviser for Gender and Civil Society, Ms. Khanim Latif, provides for cooperation in technical fields, research and advocacy. UN Women and the Office of the Presi- dent will cooperate in promoting enabling frameworks for the realisation of women’s rights as well as government- wide mainstreaming of gender equality and women’s empowerment. The MoU works also to promote sustainable institutional capacities to ensure Iraq’s alignment with its international human rights commitments. In particular, the MoU seeks to ensure statistics and cooperation in all stages the decision-making process, ending a gender-based response to the 2030 of research, in addition to improving gender-based violence and promoting Agenda for Sustainable Development, access to research findings and data by women’s active participation in the with a focus on building the capacity of users, including women. political sphere. women representatives to perform their UN Women and the President’s Office In addition, the two sides will advocate role in the political and decision- will also collaborate in strengthening for the establishment of a mechanism making spheres. Furthermore, it pro- the momentum for the advancement of for women that is capable of coordinat- vides for harmonising policy approach- women’s agenda in Iraq through joint ing the issues of women with the aim of es in the areas of national reconcilia- advocacy and outreach efforts. ensuring the political, social, cultural tion, peace building, conflict prevention The two sides will work on informing and economic empowerment of women and post-conflict reconstruction. and influencing the national discourse towards achieving gender equality. The MoU also aims to strengthen the on the elimination of legislative, social The signing ceremony was attended by database for women’s issues in order to and economic barriers for women’s real- Deputy Special Representative of the inform and guide evidence-based advo- isation and recognition of their rights, United Nations Assistance Mission for cacy. The effort includes enhancing the including in the areas of women’s eco- Iraq (UNAMI), Ms. Marta Ruedas, and process of regularly producing gender nomic empowerment, participation in advisers to the Iraqi President.

Volume 6, Issue 2 Gender Page 26 President of the Republic of Iraq receives UN Resident Coordinator, UN Women Representative following the signing of MoU on cooperation in areas of gender equality and women’s empowerment

Baghdad, 17 April 2019 – H.E. Presi- dent of the Republic of Iraq Mr. Bar- ham Salih received on April 15, 2019 the United Nations Resident Coordina- tor in Iraq, Ms. Marta Reudas, and UN Women Representative in Iraq Ms. Dina Zorba, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between UN Women and the President’s Office. The MoU provides a framework of cooperation in areas of gender equality and women’s empowerment. Ms. Ruedas, who is also the Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), expressed UN support for efforts to integrate women into the political process as well as other spheres of life, underlining that “strong political interventions” are required at the highest political levels to ensure that first steps are taken to ensure the meaningful representation of qualified women Under Iraq’s Constitution, 25 percent of der and Civil Society, Ms. Khanim in the political process. seats in the Council of Representatives Latif, underlined the importance of the Ms. Zorba said she was encouraged by are allocated for women. MoU in paving the way for more vital the President’s keenness to push for the The UN Women Representative in Iraq cooperation in various areas with focus empowerment of women at the politi- also emphasised that more efforts be on long-term initiatives of economic cal, social and economic levels, includ- exerted to empower women economical- empowerment of women rather than ing better representation of women in ly by supporting various initiatives just on short-term projects. government posts. facilitating women entrepreneurship Earlier, Ms. Latif and Ms. Zorba signed Ms. Zorba called for a special quota for and offering grants and other types of the MoU providing a framework of co- women in the executive authority as support. operation in areas of gender equality applied to the legislative authority. The President of Iraq’s Adviser for Gen- and women’s empowerment.

Foreign Minister inaugurates training course for Women Leaderships Development of Iraqi Parliamentarians

Baghdad, 24 April 2019 - Foreign Minister Mohamad A. Alhakim inaugurated the Leadership Development training program organized by the For- eign Service Institute in the Ministry. This training course comes within the framework of the Ministry’s efforts to carry out support programs and empowerment of women in Iraq, especially in the development of leadership and personal skills. Volume 6, Issue 2 Human Rights Page 27 Awareness-raising sessions about the dangers of early marriage and of violence against women held in Iraq

Baghdad, 3 March 2019 - UNICEF, in collaboration with Women Rehabili- tation Organization, organized two awareness-raising sessions about the dangers of early marriage and of violence against women. Over 650 women and girls took part in the discussions, made possible by generous funding by the Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster As- sistance (OFDA).

Colours. Missing. Cinderella.

qis; they convey powerful messages of great importance to Iraq as it transitions from conflict to peace. “In this vein, Dr Hikmat Al-Baydani, Head of 3 minutes in 3 days Film Festival, poign- antly noted that "Real stories are more powerful than imaginary ones; and this is powerfully illustrated in this year’s 3x3 short film festival”. The productions showcased in the 3x3 Film Festival conveyed messages concerning the importance of the right to culture and freedom of expression exer- cised in Iraq. With female and male directors, producers and actors, the films demonstrated the passion by women, men and children in the film industry who are all telling compelling stories that would touch the hearts and minds of all Iraqis and highlight criti- Baghdad, 4 March 2019 - Three sim- from Iraq, 24 films were specifically cal issues for minorities in particular ple, independent words; three powerful relevant to minorities and human and human rights issues in general. film titles which were screened in rights issues in Iraq. The human rights With a public viewing planned for Sun- Baghdad on Sunday, 3 March 2019 at films were made by Iraqis in Baghdad, day, 10 March 2019 at the Iraqi High Art City at the launch of the 3x3 short Basra, Kirkuk, Missan, Mosul, and Commission for Human Rights film festival. The 500+ audience includ- Najaf, specifically for this year’s 3x3 (IHCHR), the films will also be ed renowned film directors, musicians, Film Festival. Each of the human screened country-wide in the coming actors, artists, youth activists, govern- rights films had a female writer, direc- weeks, to encourage dialogue and pro- ment officials, and representatives from tor or lead character. voke action by the government, commu- the United Nations, the diplomatic In her opening remarks, Danielle Bell, nities and individuals to strengthen the corps and civil society, one truly felt Chief of the UNAMI Human Rights protection of human rights in Iraqi like one was at a gala premier Oscar Office noted that “these 3x3 films high- society. event. The atmosphere was one filled light contemporary challenges faced by with excitement, glitz, curiosity and minorities in Iraq and wider human anticipation in viewing a selection of rights issues, including disappearances, over a dozen short films. discrimination, violence against wom- The screening of select films launched en, child abuse and poverty, and show the three-day 3x3 film festival hosted the impact of the horrors inflicted by by the Baghdad Foundation of Cinema ISIL. They are not just stories. The and Arts, in partnership with the Hu- films depict the reality of so many Ira- man Rights Office of the United Na- qis”. tions Assistance Mission for Iraq Ms. Bell added, “these films portray (UNAMI). With submissions of over 840 loss and human suffering but also the films globally, 30 of which generated resilience, beauty and strength of Ira- Volume 6, Issue 2 Human Rights Page 28

Films portray loss and human suffering as well as the resilience, beauty and strength of Iraqis, says UN Human Rights Chief in Iraq at the 3 x 3 Film Festival messages of great relevance to Iraq as it transitions from conflict to peace”. The Festival was adjudicated by a panel of three independent and renowned Iraqi and international judges: the prominent Iraqi musician and human rights activist Naseer Shamma, a UNESCO Artist for Peace; Intishal Al- Timimi a well-known Iraqi figure in the international film festival circuit; and Ms. Asli Kislal, an Austrian actress and film maker. On 10 March 2019, the 3x3 short Film Festival culminated in Baghdad with a screening at the Iraq High Commission for Human Rights (IHCHR). Over 300 participants attended the screening at the IHCHR and voted in a people’s choice selection of the top three films - Baghdad, 07 March 2019 – The Unit- Prize in the Human Rights and Minori- in first place came Cinderella, followed ed Nations in Iraq commended Iraqi ties category of the festival. It high- by My Music and in third place, Black filmmakers, directors, actors, musi- lights the right to culture by telling the Lens. These films portray loss and hu- cians and artists for the production of story of a musician who tries to drown man suffering but also the resilience twenty-four short films covering human out the sounds of war through music, and the strength of Iraqis, conveying rights issues in Iraq, as part of the 3 By playing a piano amidst heavy gunfire. powerful messages about issues of 3 Film Festival held in Baghdad 3 to 5 “The Black Lens”, a chilling account of great importance to Iraq in its transi- March 2019. the impact of corruption and impunity tion from conflict to peace. The films were screened during the on Iraqi society, directed by Hussein On 4 April 2019 the UNAMI Human three-day festival, with each film illus- Abu Shama, came second, while “Give Rights Office awarded film grants to trating the impact of discrimination Me a Chance”, a beautiful tale about the directors of the top three films on against minorities, violence against how a clever boy overcomes poverty and minorities and human rights as chosen women, conflict atrocities, access to discrimination to gain an education, by an independent panel of judges at education or other human rights con- directed by Omar Yassin, won Bronze. the recent 3 By 3 Film Festival in cerns in a three-minute film produced In her remarks at the launch of the Baghdad. These grants will be used to entirely in Iraq. Festival, the Head of the UN Human support their next film projects. The Festival, organized by the Baghdad Rights Office in Iraq, Ms. Danielle Bell, A Certificate of Excellence and Appreci- Foundation for Cinema and Arts at Art said that “the films highlight contempo- ation was presented to Dr Hikmat Al- City, with support from UN Human rary challenges faced by minorities in Baythani for his outstanding contribu- Rights Iraq, is named “3 By 3” as it Iraq and wider human rights issues, tion to the Minorities and Human runs for three days and only shows including disappearances, discrimina- Rights Section of the 3 By 3 Film Festi- three-minute films. The Festival had tion, violence against women, child val. Other certificates were presented two separate categories: Short films abuse and poverty, and show the im- to film makers and actors including about minorities and human rights pact of the horrors inflicted by ISIL. both the director and the lead actor in made by Iraqis; and all other short They are not just stories. The films Cinderella, a film that has consistently films, including foreign ones. Out of a show the reality for many Iraqis. They ranked as the most popular film accord- total of nearly 900 films entered, twen- portray great loss and human suffering ing to the results of People Choice vot- ty-four human rights films qualified for but also the resilience, beauty and ing by audiences in screenings in Bagh- entry to the Human Rights and Minori- strength of Iraqis. These are powerful dad and Anbar governorates. ties category and were screened throughout the festival, of which six were commissioned by UN Human Rights. The UNAMI Human Rights Office in Iraq worked closely with the Baghdad Foundation of Cinema and Arts to make human rights and minorities a central theme of this year’s festival. Under the rules of the competition, each film was required to have a female writer, director or lead actor; pertain to minorities or human rights; and not promote sectarianism or hatred. “My Music”, an animation film directed by Mortada Al-Ameri, won the Gold Volume 6, Issue Human Rights Page 29

Human rights and minorities related short movies showcased all over Iraq

Iraq, March- April 2019 - Twenty- and girls in Ramadi. AMI HRO at Suliamaniyah Poly- four short films covering human rights technic University for the screening and minority issues in Iraq, which were of the leading Iraqi short films on mi- shown at the 3 By 3 Film Festival held norities and human rights. The films in Baghdad 3 to 5 March 2019 were inspired a vibrant panel discussion and projected all over Iraq at the sessions Q and A session. Amal Jalal (KRG organized by the UNAMI Human Women’s Council), Manzar Ali Rights Section in cooperation with local (Minority rights activist), and Shno partners. Osman (Womens NGO) raised a range of human rights concerns including: the impact of the war against ISIL on education; denial of basic rights to girls and women in the Kurdistan Region On 8 April 2019, over a hundred partic- and federal Iraq, including by child ipants attended the 3x3 short Film marriages conducted by courts and Festival screening at Al-Mustansiriya religious leaders; measures needed to University in Baghdad. protect minorities including an end to politicization of minorities; the need for religious scholars to promote coexistence; the necessity of reviving manda- tory education; the importance of pro- The tour started in Fallujah on 26 moting positive aspects of traditions March 2019 where civil society activ- and harmonizing traditions with hu- ists, community and tribal leaders, man rights. representatives from the Iraqi Human Rights Commission (IHCHR), journalists and media representatives, and government officials convened at a joint discussion with the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) On the same day, about one hundred Human Rights Office at the Mayor's students of Cihan University in office. Duhok took part in the 3x3 Film Festi- The group engaged in in-depth discus- val. After the screening students en- sions on human rights concerns includ- gaged in a discussion with an expert ing enforced disappearances, persons panel including the Director of the Do- disabled through conflict, and women's huk Office of the Kurdistan Region and girls’ issues including child mar- Independent Board of Human Rights, “Don’t wait for government to act on riage. Dler Abdullah, the Head of Aland Or- human rights. It lacks resources. The ganization in Dohuk, Sherzad Pir Mou- community can do a lot.” This was the sa, and Captain Sajida Ahmed, from call from a local human rights defender the Office of Combating Violence to participants at the Human Rights Against Women in Dohuk. The films Film Festival in Muthanna Gover- sparked discussion about the need for norate, that was held on 14 April 2019 greater protection of minorities, ac- in Samawa. countability for ISIL crimes, especially Hosted by the Muthanna branch of the against minorities, women’s rights in Iraqi Human Rights Commission, with the home, in the workplace, and in gov- technical support from the Muthanna ernment, and the right of all children to Cinema Club, 90 Film Festival partici- a quality education, including displaced pants, mostly women, including mem- and refugee children in camps. bers of Civil Society, the artistic com- In Ramadi, on 27 March 2019, partici- munity, high school teachers, and staff pants stressed local human rights con- from the Ministry of Health and the cerns including enforced disappearanc- Iraqi Human Rights Commission es, persons disabled through conflict, viewed the top short films on Minorities the needs of and potential risks posed and Human Rights from the 3By3 Film by children indoctrinated by ISIL, the Festival 2019. The films triggered a need for greater protection of the envi- vibrant discussion of human rights ronment and the impact of pollution on priorities for Muthanna. While numer- the heath of local residents, prolonged ous speakers emphasized the need for detention of detainees without charge greater access to employment, especial- or trial, drug use in Ramadi and its ly for women, and domestic violence impact, including among school chil- against women and children, there dren, the right to housing, the need for On 11 April 2019 over 110 students, were also calls to stop pollution and greater protection of freedom of expres- human rights activists, and NGO staff environmental harm which undermine sion, and greater freedoms for women working on minority rights joined UN- the right to health and are widely be- Volume 6, Issue 2 Human Rights Page 30

Human rights and minorities related short movies showcased all over Iraq (continued) lieved to be causing a spike in cancer. Sabbean and Christian minorities, trib- At the University of Basra, on 17 Other human rights concerns raised by al chiefs, women human rights defend- April 2019, 170 participants including participants included child labour, ers, Civil Society, and staff from the students, NGOs, civil society, members forced marriage, child marriage, sexual Iraqi Human Rights Commission, Mar- of Christian and Sabean minorities and violence against women and children, tyr’s Foundation, Cessation Court of the African descent community, aca- violations linked to drug abuse, barri- Missan, human rights NGOs, and Iraqi demics from the University Fine Arts ers to persons with disabilities enjoying Security Forces attended the Short Department, and the head of the Minis- their human rights, and harmful tradi- Film Festival on Minorities and Human try of Culture in Basra viewed the best tions that prevent women from enjoy- Rights in Missan Governorate, held in short films. Hosted by the Fine Arts ing freedom of movement and exercis- Amara on 16 April 2019. Department at the University of Basra, ing their right to work. One speaker During a discussion forum following the event included a vibrant panel dis- noted that a talented painter couldn’t the screening of the films, many of the cussion and question and answer ses- display her work due to family re- 70 participants highlighted human sion with participants raising a range strictions. Another emphasized the rights concerns in Missan Governorate of human rights concerns including importance of human rights awareness - the dominance of tribal norms and the those relating to the actions of armed among those who supervise education. impact on human rights. One speaker groups and tribes which cause many highlighted the tendency of many citi- problems but cannot be challenged by zens to put tribal affiliations and loyal- civil society due to the power imbal- ties before Iraqi law which undermines ance. Panelists included representa- non-discrimination and equality before tives of the community of people of Afri- the law. Another noted the failure of can descent, the Sabean community, a the State to protect its citizens, espe- professor from Fine Arts Department cially minorities, from human rights and the manager of the Iraqi High violations. Others pointed out that reli- Commission for Human Rights Basra ance on tribal solutions was due to the office. failure of state institutions to prevent A female NGO staff member noted that violations and halt impunity. women and girls who should be enjoy- While praising the concept of a film ing all of their rights are being subject- festival highlight human rights viola- ed to forced and early marriages. A In Nassriyah, Thi-Qar, on 15 April tions in Iraq, one panelist from the Sabaean woman noted that various 2019 over 65 participants from civil Fine Arts college noted that the cine- films reflected the suffering and viola- society, the Sunni Endowment, Popular matography and performances in the tions experienced by Iraqis, including Mobilisation Movements, the Jurists films were good but some of the ideas violations of the right to life. Another Union and the Iraqi Human Rights could have been developed further. participant stressed that some militias Commission viewed the leading short Another participant noted the im- and tribes are preventing Iraqis from films from the 3By3 Film Festival. portance of the films in highlighting enjoying their rights and freedoms. In discussions after the film screenings, human rights problems and social phe- Others noted that minorities have suf- panelists highlighted human rights nomena in Iraq. Meanwhile, a tribal fered excessively due to violence in Bas- concerns in Thi-Qar including wide- sheikh said the movies reflect the reali- ra and other areas in Iraq. One student spread domestic violence, harmful tra- ty in Iraq but expressed confidence that stated that the situation is chaotic due ditions which undermine enjoyment of things will improve. to the tribes who are filling a vacuum human rights by women, constraints on A female human rights defender on the left by the failure of state authorities to freedom of speech, poor quality educa- panel noted that Missan is fortunate to do their job. tion for children, the ongoing exodus of have peaceful coexistence. An NGO Some participants noted that the hu- minorities, and lack of human rights employee affirmed this comment and man rights concerns are well known awareness raising and promotion of claimed that it was the norm across but solutions are needed, stating that human rights in society. Iraq before ISIL. Another person em- Human rights are legal guarantees and A woman human rights defender noted phasized that sectarianism is relatively we should not have to rely on NGOs that Iraq has gone through eras of dic- new and affects Iraqi society by under- and INGOs to obtain them. Others ex- tatorship and injustice and the accumu- mining dignity and respect for all. One pressed the view that Government au- lation of circumstances has left Iraqi participant called for law reform to thorities and officials are not acting to society with a human rights deficit. consolidate and support the values of protect and promote the human rights human rights in society. of those they are supposed to serve but are acting in their own interests. Solutions to these human rights problems need to come from the rule of law. For one speaker, the necessary sea- change begins with ourselves. We need a plan and collective effort. Female students stated that they cannot prevent forced and early marriages and called on men to join them and stand up for the rights of girls and women together. They stated that without the promotion of human rights, awareness Volume 6, Issue 2 Human Rights Page 31

Human rights and minorities related short movies showcased all over Iraq (continued) raising, cooperation and efforts by all, San, Education Specialist, Ms. Soma the future for Iraqi people will be no Yassin, women’s rights activist and better. Students emphasized the inabil- lawyer, and Dr. Fahmi A. Aziz, a psy- ity of many graduates to exercise their chiatrist, writer and civil activist. The right to work in their area of qualifica- films sparked discussion about the need tion, especially women due to very few for greater protection of minorities, job opportunities and discrimination in women’s rights in the home, in the favour of males. workplace, and in government, and the As at other screenings, votes cast by need to prosecute crimes committed by participants revealed that “Cinderella” ISIL. was the most popular Iraqi short film among Basra viewers. Panelists noted that the short films reflected the reality in Iraq. Human rights concerns highlighted by the panel and the audience included forced marriage, child marriage, lack of access to education and health services in both rural areas and cities, and failure to take steps needed to enable persons with disabilities to exercise all their human rights. Concerns were also raised about the impact of drug use on society. UNAMI Human Rights Office continues to At the University of Babil, on 28 On 23 April 2019, about one hundred screen the best short films on minori- April 2019, 100 Fine Arts students and students of the Polytechnic Institute ties and human rights (from the 3By3 academics, the human rights section of in Kalar District took part in the 3x3 Film Festival) across Iraq. Babil University, NGO staff, artists, Film Festival organized by the UNAMI and the Babil branch of the Iraqi High Human Rights Office. After the screen- Commission of Human Rights (IHCHR) ing students engaged with an expert joined UNAMI HRO in celebrating the panel including the Dean of the Poly- Minorities and Human Rights Film technic Institute, Dr. Chia M. Hassan, Festival. the Director of the Garmiyan Office of In advance of the screening, the Dean the Kurdistan Region Independent of the Fine Arts Department empha- Board of Human Rights, Mr. Xabat sised that Iraq's young generation want Rasheed, and the Director of Talented peace and reconciliation. The UN Hu- Women Organization, Ms. Shno Os- man Rights Chief for Iraq, Ms. Danielle man. The films sparked discussion Bell, agreed and highlighted the im- about the need for greater protection of portant role of youth in peace building minorities, women’s rights in the home, and social cohesion, noting that human in the workplace, and in government, Students of the Halabja Technical right films may provoke much needed and the need to prosecute crimes com- College for Applied Sciences in Hal- discussion on sensitive topics affecting mitted by ISIL. abja Governorate took part in the 3x3 Iraqis. This exchange of views may Film Festival organized by the UNAMI build trust, transparency and peaceful On 23 April 2019 160 participants, 40% Human Rights Office on 24 April 2019. coexistence. Babil IHCHR highlighted of them women, including civil society, After the screening at the Halabja human rights concerns in Babil includ- students, university professors, and Technical College for Applied Sciences ing unemployment coinciding with media, celebrated the Najaf short film campus in Halabja, some of the 90 stu- crime and drug abuse. festival on minorities and human rights dents who attended engaged with an with UNAMI Human Rights Office. expert panel including the Ms. Erad The festival tour continues. Volume 6, Issue 2 Human Rights Page 32

Discussion on Iraq’s fulfilling of the obligations under the Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination held in Baghdad

Baghdad, 11 March 2019 - A and representatives of minority com- relating to the minorities, including roundtable discussion convened by UN- munities. The meeting is in line with recommendations to prioritize enact- AMI’s Human Rights Office in Baghdad UNAMI HRO’s continuing efforts to ment of a Law criminalizing racial dis- on 11 March 2019 brought together the support the Government in fulfilling its crimination, the preservation and pro- National Reconciliation Commission in obligations under the Convention on motion of minority languages, and ef- the Prime Minister’s Office and the the Elimination of Racial Discrimina- forts to remove discriminatory civil Human Rights Directorate in the Min- tion. documentation for some of the minori- istry of Justice as well as the Iraqi A working group on the rights of minor- ties. High Commission for Human Rights ities will be created to discuss issues

Training on human rights investigations in Tikrit

Tikrit, 3 April 2019 - The Human Din office. The two-hour session was Rights Office (HRO) of the United Na- aimed at increasing the understanding tions Assistance Mission for Iraq of the participants on the principles to (UNAMI) conducted today a training be observed in the conduct of human session in Tikrit on “Human Rights rights investigations. The training is Investigation: Principles and Practical part of a series of HRO trainings Guidance” with staff members of the planned for 2019 to benefit IHCHR Iraqi Independent High Commission staff. for Human Rights (IHCHR) - Salah al-

SRSG Hennis-Plasschaert visited the site of a mass grave that was unearthed near Samawa

Samawa, Iraq, 14 April 2019 - The Special Representative of the UN Sec- retary-General for Iraq, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, together with President of the Republic of Iraq, Mr. Barham Salih, and the representative of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Ms. Katharina Ritz, visited today the site of a mass grave that was unearthed near Samawa in Al- Muthanna Governorate in southern Iraq. Speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Hennis- Plasschaert said such an event was a testament of Iraq’s transformation since the days of the dictatorship. “It is remarkable that a few decades ago the president was dealing with his people in such a way we are finding out here today, and today we are here with President Barham Salih and the Unit- ed Nations and the International Com- mittee of the Red Cross to deal with the horrific events of the past, to do justice.”

Photos by UNAMI and courtesy of the Office of the President. Volume 6, Issue 2 Human Rights Page 33 UNESCO hold the consultation meeting on Voluntary National Review (VNR) of Access of Information and Journalists Safety

Baghdad 15 April 2019 - UNESCO, in ber of the Safety Committee said in his port and covered the overview of the partnership with the Iraqi national speech “On behalf of the committee process that will lead up to the 2019 Committee for the Safety of Journalists members, we seek to finalize this report VNR, including holding an additional and issue of Impunity, and the Free- before the end of this month so that we preparatory meeting next week with pressUnlimited organized a consulta- can launch it on the World Press Free- the respective national committee. tion meeting, on the Voluntary Nation- dom Day 2019, and then submit it offi- It was stated that the tentative dead- al Review (VNR) of SDGs 16.10.1 &2, to cially to the United Nations to be pre- line for the submission of the VNR present the updated efforts for the sented in New York on time". would be 3 May 2019. The report, still preparation of a VNR and discuss chal- “It's an important step for Iraq to hold in draft form, examines a range of top- lenges such as data availability and meetings that gather both Iraqi govern- ics addressed in the VNR, including provide the opportunity for the UN ment and civil society representatives awareness raising, involvement of system and international actors of to discuss the safety and protection of stakeholders, institutional mechanisms media development as well as the CSOs journalists and access to information on to implement the 2030 Agenda, incor- to further consolidate its support for the context of the reviewing the VNR of poration of the SDGs into national the production of the VNR and integra- Iraq," said Boris van Westering from frameworks, means of implementation tion of the 2030 Agenda. freepressunlimited, and capacity building needs regrading The meeting was opened by Mr. Qasim The members of the national committee access to information and safety of jour- Hawal, the Special Adviser of PM, for of safety of journalists review the re- nalists. Media and Culture, who stated, “on behalf of the Prime Minister, I encourage the Iraqi committee for safety of Journalists to undertake the voluntary national reviews (VNR), as a testament to the strong commitment to the 2030 Agenda at the national level”. In his opening remarks, Mr. Hawal, noted the significance of having both the government and CSOs participants to share experiences and discuss challenges faced in the review process. He added “the government of Iraq is seeking to present the VNR of Iraq at the 2019 session of the High-level Political Fo- rum on Sustainable Development of the 2030 Agenda”. Mr. Kamel Amen, the representative of the Ministry of Justice, and the mem-

UNAMI Human Rights Office conducts training on fair trial guarantees in Kirkuk

Kirkuk, 17 April 2019 - The Human a one-hour presentation on “ICCPR sised that the protection of human Rights Office (HRO) of the United Na- Article 14: International Fair Trial rights while countering terrorism is an tions Assistance Mission for Iraq Guarantees”, which was followed by a obligation of States; and that the pro- (UNAMI) conducted the fifth and final plenary discussion. The training was tection of human rights is a condition training session for the staff of the Ira- attended by 12 staff members, includ- for an effective counter-terrorism strat- qi High Commission for Human Rights ing six women. egy. (IHCHR)–Kirkuk Office. The HRO gave During the session, the HRO empha- Volume 6, Issue 2 Human Rights Page 34 UNAMI Human Rights Office conducts training on national and international fair trial rights

Kirkuk, 23 April 2019 -- On 22 April, Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), to terrorism strategy. It was also demon- the Human Rights Office (HRO) of the which Iraq is a state party. strated that all counter-terrorism United Nations Assistance Mission for The training stressed that the protec- measures must comply with States’ Iraq (UNAMI) and the Iraqi Bar Asso- tion of human rights while countering international human rights obligations, ciation-Kirkuk Chapter jointly conduct- terrorism is an obligation of States, and including the right to a fair trial. This ed a training session on that the protection of human rights is a is essential in ensuring the proper ad- “Understanding national and interna- condition for an effective counter- ministration of justice. tional fair trial guarantees.” Ten new practicing lawyers, including five women, participated in the training, which was followed by an interactive plenary discussion. The training is the first of a series of training sessions lined up this year for members of the Iraqi Bar Asso- ciation in Kirkuk. The training included a presentation on the rights of an accused person under Iraqi law and procedure, which was delivered by a recognised criminal law expert, local lawyer Muyad Obaid Alezzi. It also included a presentation by the HRO on the international fair trial guarantees as provided for in Arti- cle 14 of the International Covenant on

UNITAD

UNITAD working with Government of Iraq to commence exhumation of mass grave site at Kojo, Sinjar Region

Baghdad, 14 March 2019 - Tomorrow, effort constitutes part of the investiga- gious leaders, followed by speeches UNITAD (United Nations Investigative tion of Da’esh/ISIL crimes in order to from senior Government figures and Team to Promote Accountability for identify those most responsible. It will representatives of the Yazidi communi- Crimes Committed by Da’esh/ISIL) will also serve the very important function ty. support the work of the Government of of identifying the victims so that their UNITAD takes this opportunity to com- Iraq in conducting exhumations related remains can be returned to their fami- mend the efforts of the Government of to victims of Da’esh/ISIL crimes. This lies for burial in accordance with their Iraq for the support and cooperation it will be the first exhumation in the Sin- wishes, and with full respect for their has extended to UNITAD throughout jar region and will take place in the religious or cultural practices. this process. village of Kojo. Special Adviser and Head of the Inves- Evidence suggests that hundreds of tigative Team Karim A. A. Khan QC * * * * * villagers from Kojo - men, adolescent stated: boys, and women perceived to be past “Friday 15 March 2019 constitutes an Kojo, 15 March 2019 - Special Adviser child-bearing age - were murdered by important moment: The first of many and Head of the Investigative Team ISIL fighters in August 2014, while grave sites in Sinjar which contain the Karim Khan pays tribute to survivors more than 700 women and children remains of Da’esh/ISIL victims will be and families of victims of the 2014 mas- were abducted. Women and girls over exhumed. UNITAD recognises the pa- sacre of Yazidis at Kojo, Sinjar at me- the age of 9 are understood to have tience and resilience of the survivors morial ceremony for the fallen ahead of been forced into sexual slavery, where and their families, who have waited so commencement of exhumation of mass they suffered a wide range of violations; long for this process to begin. The road grave. boys over the age of 7 are said to have towards accountability is a long one, been forcibly recruited and made to and many challenges lay ahead. Not- fight as part of ISIL. withstanding this, the spirit of coopera- The Mass Graves Directorate within tion between the survivor community the Martyr’s Foundation and the Medi- and the Government of Iraq is to be cal Legal Directorate under the Iraqi applauded. UNITAD’s priority through- Ministry of Health will lead the exhu- out this process will be the collection of mation and the retrieval of forensic evidence in a manner that meets inter- evidence. This process will be conduct- national standards with full regard to ed with the guidance and support of the rights and interests of survivors UNITAD. Those exhumed and any oth- and the families of victims.” er evidence recovered will be removed The exhumation will commence with a from the site for forensic analysis. This memorial ceremony led by Yazidi reli- Volume 6, Issue 2 UNITAD Page 35 Government of Iraq, UNITAD conclude first Sinjar mass grave exhumation in Kojo village

Baghdad, 21 March 2019 – UNITAD (United Nations Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da’esh/ISIL) announced this morning the completion of the first exhumation of a Yazidi mass grave in the Sinjar region, in the village of Kojo. UNITAD reports that the victims’ remains and associated evidence have safely arrived at the Medico-Legal Di- rectorate in Baghdad. The exhumation was conducted by the Mass Graves Directorate within the Martyrs’ Foundation, the Medico-Legal Directorate under the Iraqi Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Martyrs and Anfal of the Kurdistan Regional Government, guided and supported by UNITAD’s team of forensic and legal experts. The exhumation process was preceded by a memorial ceremony in Kojo, at- these crimes, a psycho-social support Government of Iraq. Their work during tended by H.E. Dr Mahdi Al-Alaq, the unit was made available to grieving the exhumation process, guided by Secretary-General of the Council of attendees. UNITAD specialists, was completed in Ministers, alongside other senior level Having first confirmed the absence of line with international best practices, government representatives. Nobel incendiary or explosive devices at the and their commitment to this work, has Peace Prize Laureate Nadia Murad, site with the support of MAG Interna- been exemplary.” herself a survivor of the Da’esh massa- tional, the investigation team excavat- The next phase of the investigation is cre and mass abductions at Kojo, and a ed the site, successfully exposing the the forensic analysis of all evidence Goodwill Ambassador for the United remains of up to 30 individuals. The collected at Kojo, with a view to ad- Nations, also spoke, calling for stability precise number will be confirmed fol- vancing UNITAD investigations of in the Sinjar region. lowing forensic analysis at the Medico- Da’esh crimes. As an important part of Following the memorial service, His Legal Directorate in Baghdad. this process, UNITAD hopes that the Holiness Baba Sheikh Khurto Hajji Concluding the five-day exhumation bodies and remains recovered may be Ismail and senior clergy led the several process, the remains were extracted identified and then returned to their hundred attendees, many themselves from the site and stored in a specially surviving family members for burial in survivors of Da’esh crimes and relatives adapted secure vehicle for transporta- accordance with their wishes and their of those killed or abducted, in a reli- tion to Baghdad. cultural or religious beliefs. gious ceremony at the grave site, which UNITAD Special Adviser and Head of Special Adviser Khan, addressing the concluded with the release of white the Investigative Team Karim A. A. local community, stated: “You have doves, the universal symbol of peace. Khan QC stated: “UNITAD extends its already waited a long time. And I’m In line with UNITAD’s mandate to sup- sincere gratitude to the crime scene sorry to say you will have to wait long- port the wellbeing of those affected by investigation and forensic teams of the er. Because the road to real justice is a long one. “On the occasion of Newroz, Kurdish New Year, we look ahead to the coming twelve months and pledge that independent investigations required will continue, so that the demands of justice and the requirement of accountability in fair trials can be achieved. At all times, UNITAD will ensure that the views and concerns of the survivors and families of victims, will be at the centre of our work so that they, the people of Iraq and the international community, may realise accountability for the hei- nous crimes they have endured, which may amount to genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.”

UNITAD will return to Sinjar region to support ongoing investigations into Da’esh crimes before the commencement of Ramadan. Volume 6, Issue 2 UNITAD Page 36

Government of Iraq, UNITAD, united in ongoing exhumations in Sinjar, Iraq

Baghdad, 31 March 2019 - UNITAD concern to all Iraqis. As we move for- tional communities are united in sup- (United Nations Investigative Team for ward with the next phase, we will con- port of accountability for Iraqis of all the Promotion of Accountability for tinue to work with our partners to de- faiths, and all communities.” Crimes Committed by Da’esh/ISIL) liver accountability for our Iraqi broth- The UNITAD team will include the confirms ongoing forensic and technical ers and sisters.” head of its forensic unit as well as the support for the teams of the Govern- UNITAD Special Adviser and Head of senior lawyer responsible for Sinjar ment of Iraq, announcing the continua- the Investigative Team Karim A. A. investigations. tion throughout April of exhumations Khan QC, stated: The next phase of exhumation work of gravesites located in the village of “UNITAD is delighted with the spirit will be coordinated with the assistance Kojo, Sinjar Region, Nineveh. of cooperation, commitment and profes- of the International Commission on Performed by the Mass Graves Direc- sionalism displayed by the teams from Missing Persons (ICMP) with which torate (part of the Martyrs’ Founda- the Government of Iraq, led by Mr. UNITAD has signed a Memorandum of tion) headed by Mr. Diyaa Karim Mohammed Taher Al-Tamimi. This Understanding to conduct further ex- Tu’ma, and the Medico Legal Direc- next phase of exhumations in Kojo humations, in line with recognised torate (under the Ministry of Health) shows that the national and interna- international standards. headed by Dr. Zaid Ali Abbas, the next set of exhumations will expand the ground-breaking work conducted in the village during March 2019, the site of the massacre of hundreds of Yazidi men and women in August 2014. Mr. Mohammed Taher Al-Tamimi, General Director of the NGO Direc- torate and Chairman of the Secretariat of the Council of Ministers Operations Room acts as the focal point for the Government teams across the process, synergising cooperation and ensuring that best practices are adhered to at all times. He commented: “We are proud to say that the first exhumation operation in Kojo was delivered successfully, in line with all legal requirements and international best practices, and in coordination with the specialists from UNITAD. The efforts of our team were tremendous in managing this process, which is of great

Special Adviser Khan meets with the Iraqi PR to UN al-Uloom to discuss ongoing cooperation in pursuit of accountability for Da'esh crimes

New York, 24 April 2019 - United Nations Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Da’esh (UNITAD) Special Adviser and Head of the Investigative Team, Karim A. A. Khan QC, met with Am- bassador Mohammed Bahr al-Uloom, Permanent Representative of the Re- public of Iraq to the United Nations, at the United Nations headquarters in New York, along with Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Nadia Murad Basee, to discuss ongoing cooperation in pursuit of accountability for Da'esh crimes. Volume 6, Issue 2 Humanitarian Page 37 New season, new clothes

Baghdad, 26 February 2019 - There these boxes there are beautiful clothes been distributed to displaced children are more than 3 million Iraqis living in with bright colors”, Farah’s father ex- across the country so far, with the gen- poverty, made worse by the recent war plained erous support of the Office of U.S. For- in Iraq. As their savings and financial UNICEF works with partners to ensure eign Disaster Assistance (OFDA) and potential dwindle, many families are that every child in Iraq is warm. More Swedish Committee. struggling to provide winter clothes for than 161,000 winter clothing kits have By Anmar Rfaat, UNICEF their children. In response to this need, UNICEF Iraq helped to protect displaced children from the cold winter by distributing more than 161,000 sets of winter clothing this year. Winter clothes prices are usually high, we do not have the money to buy them, the content of this box, the clothes in here, are very useful. Each bag is good for one child and it contains boots, a winter jacket, a sports suit, a scarf, gloves, socks, and a hat. In the picture, above, ten-year-old Fahi- ma, who is originally from Sinjar, opens a box containing new winter clothes in Qaida IDP camp in Dohuk. “I was sad when I saw my daughter wearing old clothes in this cold. Now in IOM’s shelter team rehabilitates houses for a safe return of IDPs

Baghdad, 27 February 2019 - When “When I returned home after the city Hasna returned to her home she found was retaken, most of the houses in my her place had been severely affected neighborhood were destroyed and some during ISIL’s occupation of Khan Daari were badly damaged, including mine. in Abu Ghraib district. Her house had There were water leaks everywhere no windows, no doors, no sanitation, no because of damage to the roof, and electricity, and a damaged roof. there was mud all over the place,” said Hasna is an 81-years-old widow and Hasna. has a frail health; she has a weak With funding from the Government of heart, high blood pressure and diabe- Germany, IOM’s shelter team fully tes, and no source of income or family rehabilitated Hasna’s house, repairing support. the roof, toilet, and walls. Iraq: “Internally displaced persons must be presented with options beyond life in a camp” – Humanitarian Coordinator

Baghdad, 4 March 2019 - Although the humanitarian context in Iraq has transitioned into a new phase, vulnerable people continue to face immense challenges. Six million people were displaced during the conflict against the Islamic State in Iraq and the Le- vant (ISIL) from 2014 to 2017. While more than 4 million people have returned to their communities, approximately 1.8 million people remain displaced, and 54 per cent of all internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been displaced for three or more years. The prolonged nature of their displacement has led to increased vulnerabilities among IDPs; in 11 districts throughout Iraq, displaced persons are facing a very high severity of needs. Approximately 11 per cent of the rough- ly 4 million returnees are in locations Volume 6, Issue 2 Humanitarian Page 38 Iraq: “Internally displaced persons must be presented with options beyond life in a camp” – Humanitarian Coordinator (continued) where living conditions are not consid- ality. However, it is becoming more integration for those who want to stay ered to be adequate, dignified and safe. obvious each day that certain groups in Sulaymaniyah. She visited the Ashti While significant efforts are underway will need extra support if they are ever IDP camp together humanitarian ser- to reconstruct infrastructure and re- to make the transition back to their vice providers working on health, edu- store basic services across the country, communities—among these groups, cation and gender issues. it will take years to rebuild Iraq. Al- families with perceived affiliations to One humanitarian priority for both in- most 138,000 residential buildings were extremist organizations are among the camp and out-of-camp IDPs in Sulay- impacted by the conflict. most vulnerable". maniyah is improved access to educa- Changing the course of action Sulaymaniyah Governorate, in the Kur- tional services. There are not enough Humanitarian partners are adjusting distan Region of Iraq, hosts approxi- teachers in in Sulaymaniyah for schools their way of working to adapt to a new mately 150,000 IDPs, over 90 per cent which cater to IDP children; many IDP landscape, as the country transitioned of whom live outside of traditional IDP schools have only one or two teachers from being a nation gripped by the camp settings. IDPs outside of camps who receive a salary from the govern- armed conflict to one where normal life do not enjoy the same level of support ment; other teachers are supported is slowly but surely resuming. And pro- from humanitarian partners as those in directly by IDP families through the tracted displacement is one critical camps, and largely rely on the generosi- collection of monthly economic area the current response aims to ad- ty of host communities. Increased sup- “incentives,” which has financial and dress. port to out-of-camp IDPs is one of the protection implications for IDPs. In 12 "Iraq’s approximately 1.8 million re- priorities of the 2019 Iraq HRP. out-of-camp schools, IDP parents also maining IDPs must be presented with Education is a priority pay the rent for the school building options beyond life in an IDP camp", On 26 February, Ms. Ruedas visited because it is not a government-owned said the Humanitarian Coordinator for Sulaymaniyah and met with the Gover- facility. Such circumstances are one of Iraq, Ms. Marta Ruedas, "and the inter- nor of the province to examine first- the consequences of protracted dis- national community—in partnership hand the needs of the IDP community, placement, as host communities try to with the Government of Iraq and the discuss how to help those who are will- contend with unexpected population Kurdistan Regional Government— ing and able to return to their areas of increases. must begin preparing for this eventu- origin, and consider possibilities for Access to education remains a critical issue across Iraq, with an estimated 2.6 million children out of school. "The humanitarian community has an obligation to ensure that minimum standards are maintained, and camps with poor infrastructure in remote locations which host a limited number of families are not efficient or effective at serving the needs of IDPs", concluded Ms. Rueda. "Thus, camp consolidation and the transfer of IDPs to larger camps with better service provision - including schools - is one of the goals of humanitarian actors in Iraq in 2019". New UNHCR representative in Iraq visited Hassansham camp for internally displaced in East Mosul

Mosul, 11 March 2019 - Mr. Ayman Gharaibeh, new UNHCR representative in Iraq visited Hassansham camp for internally displaced in East Mosul. "We work with partners to support better living conditions and sustainable return", Mr. Ayman Gharaibeh said to representatives of 5,400 residents living in the camp. Volume 6, Issue 2 Humanitarian Page 39 UNHCR Iraq welcomes Japan’s announcement of a further USD 13 million in funding to support Iraqi IDPs and returnees and Syrian refugees in Iraq

Baghdad, 18 March 2019 - UNHCR, needs of Iraqi IDPs, returnees, and contribution to IDPs, returnees and the UN Refugee Agency welcomed a Syrian refugees across Iraq.’ Syrian refugees in meeting their basic generous contribution of USD 13 mil- With Japan’s support, UNHCR will be needs. With this package, total amount lion from the Government and people of able to launch various quick impact of Japan’s assistance to the people af- Japan to protect and assist Internally projects for the benefit of around 18.000 fected by the crisis has reached 500 Displaced People (IDPs), returnee fami- individuals in 2019. Up to six quick million US Dollars.” lies, and Syrian refugees across Iraq. impact projects are expected to improve The Government of Japan has been one Japan’s funding will help UNHCR work and expand service facilities in out of of UNHCR’s most important contribu- with local stakeholders and partners to camps situations across Iraq. Further- tors in the last years. Thanks to the support the targeted communities with more, up to 6000 individuals will re- generous contributions of Japan, thou- cash assistance, quick impact projects, ceive legal assistance services thanks to sands of IDPs, returnees and Syrian legal assistance, and psychosocial pre- these funds. The additional funds from refugees in Iraq have benefited from vention and response activities in re- Japan will help UNHCR in providing enhanced assistance in past years. sponse of sexual and gender-based vio- monthly cash assistance for more than Today, more than 1.8 million Iraqis lence. 6,953 vulnerable IDPs families and 700 remain internally displaced. Returns of Ayman Gharaibeh, UNHCR repre- refugee families across the country. IDPs to areas of origin increased at a sentative in Iraq said ‘Japan’s generous H.E. Mr. Naofumi Hashimoto, Ambas- steady rate in 2018 and is likely contin- contribution demonstrates commitment sador of Japan to the Republic of Iraq, ue in 2019, but many among the re- to supporting Iraq's transition out of expressed Japan’s commitment to turnees are facing constrained access to emergency and pave the way for solu- providing necessary services to the basic services and security. Iraq also tions.’ Gharaibeh also added ‘it will also vulnerable people, he said, “Japan has continues to host a large Syrian refugee support UNHCR’s efforts to reshape its recently decided new assistance pack- community of around 252,526 individu- strategic priorities to feed into the tran- age for Iraq amounting to 63 million als. sition to stability while addressing the US Dollars including this project as OCHA Iraq visited out-of-camp IDP families in Mesirik village

Erbil, 18 March 2019 - OCHA Iraq visited today out-of-camp IDP families in Mesirik village, in Dohuk. The families highlighted their need for food and cash assistance and confirmed that they have not received any type of humanitarian assistance during the last two years. The displaced families have no plan to return to their areas of origin in the near future due to security conditions in their home districts. Per Mesirik local authorities, around 1,000 IDPs families live in Mesirik village; the majority are from Mosul, Zummar and Sinjar.

UNHCR provides emergency assistance to flood affected IDPs in Anbar

Baghdad, 18 March 2019 - Recent storms destroyed shelters for displaced Iraqis in Anbar Governorate. UNHCR (UN Refugee Agency) immediately re- sponded with emergency tents and supplies for over 450 families. Volume 6, Issue 2 Humanitarian Page 40 IOM launches Funding Appeal to address most urgent humanitarian needs in areas of displacement and return in Iraq

Erbil, 29 March 2019 - Five years Salah al-Din, the governorates most which provides real-time reliable quan- after the onset of the ISIL crisis and severely affected by the recent conflict. titative and qualitative data on dis- the subsequent massive internal dis- IOM will focus its humanitarian sup- placement and returns. placement, IOM Iraq is launching its port in Iraq on three groups of concern: “We highly appreciate IOM’s efforts to funding appeal for emergency assis- IDPs who remain in displacement both provide life-saving humanitarian assistance in the amount of USD 41.4 mil- within and outside camps, vulnerable tance to displaced families in and out of lion. host communities in areas of displace- camps as well as support them upon Although the number of internally dis- ment and return – where services are return their communities of origin. We placed persons (IDPs) has gradually overstretched – and IDPs who have look forward to our continued coopera- declined since 2015, there are still returned to their areas of origin but tion in 2019,” said Naseer Abdel-Sattar, around 1,750,000 Iraqis living in dis- whose basic humanitarian needs are Executive Director of the Joint Coordi- placement as of February 2019, due to not being met. nation and Monitoring Centre (JCMC) significant obstacles to return such as In 2019, IOM plans to maintain its life- of the Government of Iraq. damage to houses; lack of livelihoods saving assistance to IDPs in camp set- “The protracted displacement crisis is and basic services; perceptions of inse- tings through the provision of Shelter one of the critical challenges that needs curity in areas of origin; and mental and Non-Food Items (NFI) support, our focused attention, as many dis- and psychosocial distress. Around a providing primary health services, placed people still depend entirely on third of the current population of IDPs, monitoring and addressing protection the provision of humanitarian assis- over 530,000 persons, is still living in and psychosocial needs, supporting tance. The local resources and capaci- camps, which require critical support. Water, Sanitation and Hygiene ties are already overstretched and IOM’s funding appeal is aligned with (WASH) services, and supporting camp pushed to the limit. IOM has been one the 2019 United Nations’ Humanitari- co-ordination and camp management of the key partners to provide life- an Response Plan (HRP) for Iraq, (CCCM) of IDP camps and informal saving assistance to the displaced peo- which estimates that approximately 6.7 settlements. ple inside and outside the camps. We million people are in critical need of The appeal also includes a request for value the continued support and coop- support. Nearly 65 per cent of those are the continuation of IOM Iraq’s Dis- eration with IOM to support the most concentrated in Ninewa, Anbar, and placement Tracking Matrix (DTM) vulnerable people,” said Hoshang Mo- hamed, the Director General of Joint Crisis Coordination Centre (JCC) in Iraq’s Kurdistan Regional Government. “Funding for humanitarian assistance is crucial to uphold the basic needs and dignity of vulnerable Iraqis in displacement and areas of return. It will prevent a reversal of the gains made to stabilize areas that have been most severely affected by the conflict,” said Gerard Waite, IOM Iraq’s Chief of Mis- sion. “Through partnership and collaboration with other humanitarian partners, the Government of Iraq, the Kurdistan Regional Government and local NGOs, we hope to address the most critical humanitarian needs while seeking durable solutions for those in protracted displacement,” he added.

UNFPA provides dignity kits to floods victims

Baghdad, 4 April 2019 - The United On 5 April 2019, UNFPA in Iraq sup- Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in ported the distribution of 75 dignity Iraq distributed 301 dignity kits to kits in Khan Ali Liwalwa area, Baquba, women and girls affected by the recent in Diyala. Women and girls who re- flood in Fendi of Alam district and ceived the kits were from low-income Qadriyah and Albo Saleh Al-Hasan of farmer households, whose lands were Sumoom area in Salah al-Din, as well affected by the flood due to the proximi- as in Khurnabat, Howedir and Al- ty to Diyala river. Mustafa areas in Diyala. In some areas, Dramatic photos continue to emerge the team transported the dignity kits from the central governorates of the by boat because of the high level of wa- effects of heavy rains and flooding. ter. Distribution was also supported by OCHA Iraq is continuously monitoring local government offices and Mukhtars. the situation. Volume 6, Issue 2 Humanitarian Page 41 UN-Habitat conducts vocational training sessions for community members including women in Zanjilli, West Mosul, to support their livelihood

Mosul, 12 April 2019 - Under the project “Support to Reconstruction and Peacebuilding of Liberated Cities in Iraq” generously funded by the Govern- ment of Japan, UN-Habitat is working with Peace Winds Japan to conduct vocational training sessions for community members including women in Zan- jilli, West Mosul, to support their livelihood. Fifty (50) community members, including 10 women, have successfully completed their training courses. After graduation, they will gain on-the-job training in the construction industry to practice the knowledge and skills ob- tained during the sessions. How to handle relief goods in the aftermath of a natural disaster workshop held in Erbil Erbil, 14 April 2019 – “Gard Your Airport” workshop was held between 14 and 18 April 2019 in Erbil. UNDP in Iraq and Deutsche Post DHL shared knowledge and experience with 30 airport staff from Erbil and Sulaymaniyah international airports as well as employees from relevant government agencies, ministries and civil protection units on how to handle relief goods in the aftermath of a natural disaster. To make post-disaster airport management less chaotic and airport staff better prepared to facilitate relief, it is critical to get prepared before disaster happen. This workshop was organized and facilitated by UNDP’s Environment, Energy and Climate Change (EECC) programme in partnership with DHL. UN Strategic Prioritization Retreat held in Baghdad

Baghdad, 15 April 2019 - The Deputy Mr. Ramon Blecua, and NGO Coordi- government, civil society, international Special Representative for Iraq of the nating Committee of Iraq Executive partners and the UN System to discuss United Nations Secretary-General and Director, Mr. Aaron Moore, at the the priorities of United Nations for UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Marta launch the UN Strategic Prioritization 2020 – 2024 in support of Iraq’s devel- Ruedas, European Union Ambassador, Retreat. The event brought together opment objectives. Volume 6, Issue 2 Humanitarian Page 42 IOM is supporting IDP families with rental assistance to improve their socio-economic condition

Kirkuk, 16 April 2019 - "I cannot describe the joy my children felt when they were able watch the rain falls through the window without being sur- rounded by mud. For the last three years, we lived in a tent and were worried every single time it rained. The tent did not protect us from the elements, and we were in a pitiful situation" said Firas, 34, father of two. Firas’ family and 164 other displaced families who lived in a camp for displaced Iraqis in Kirkuk were left without shelter when the camp was closed down. IOM, with funding from the Of- fice of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA), is supporting these families with rental assistance to improve their socio-economic condition and to allow “Thanks to the cash for rental assis- house where I sell chickens. Now I can them to prioritize other needs including tance, I was able to leave the camp, support my family and meet all their health and medication, food, and liveli- rent a house in Kirkuk, and start a needs" added Firas. hood opportunities. business by renting a store next to my

Kirkuk Acting Governor met with the Humanitarian Community in Kirkuk

Kirkuk, 16 April 2019 - While meet- rity situation, he requested the human- tions are not conducive in their areas of ing the humanitarian community in itarian partners to expand geographic origin, it was mutually agreed Laylan 1 Kirkuk today Acting Governor, Rakan coverage of the project sites. and 2 camps in Kirkuk will remain Sai’d Ali Radwan al-Jubouri, outlined Humanitarian partners requested for open until the conditions are assessed the local government key priorities in better coordination within the govern- conducive for all IDPs to return. support of IDPs in 2019. ment structures to better facilitate Much like the Humanitarian Response their work. In support of IDPs unwill- By Aziku Santus, Humanitarian Af- Plan 2019, they included more focus on ing or unable to return, because condi- fairs Officer, UN OCHA restoration of basic services including Shelter, Health, WASH, education and electricity to support safe and dignified return of IDPs to their areas of origin; rehabilitation and reconstruction of about 130 villages that were destroyed during the conflict and rebuilding the livelihoods of the returned IDPs. He expressed appreciation for the tremendous work the humanitarian partners have carried out augmenting government effort to support IDPs in and out of the camps. He pledged continued government support to facilitate humanitarian work in the post-conflict transition towards durable solutions for the IDPs. Announcing improved access and secu- New studies reveal state of protracted displacement and prospects for local integration in Iraq

Erbil, 19 April 2019 — IOM Iraq re- The first part of the study had a dual The findings reveal that for 41 per cent cently completed two sets of comple- focus, analyzing both the main districts of IDPs, Mosul and Sinjar (Ninewa) are mentary studies that examined the of origin and displacement, thereby the districts of origin, while a quarter factors behind protracted displacement identifying the obstacles to return for originate from the districts of Al- in Iraq, as well as the prospects of dis- Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) Hawiga in Kirkuk, Baiji in Salah al placed Iraqi families integrating their and assessing how they are faring in Din, Falluja and Ramadi in Anbar, and host communities. areas of displacement and return. Telafar and Al-Ba’aj in Ninewa. Volume 6, Issue 2 Humanitarian Page 43

New studies reveal state of protracted displacement … (continued)

Over six million Iraqis have been inter- by IOM Iraq, the Returns Working for durable solutions to displacement if nally displaced since the ISIL conflict Group (RWG) and Social Inquiry, ex- we do not understand why many Iraqis erupted in 2014, with slightly more plored the extent and likelihood of local remain in displacement, and we cannot than 1.7 million remaining in displace- integration of long-term displaced fami- facilitate these durable solutions if we ment. lies in Sulaymaniah and Baghdad gov- do not understand what factors can While 61 per cent of these IDPs are ernorates. facilitate or block the return or integra- currently considered to be in protracted “Determinants of IDP Integration into tion of the displaced population,” said displacement, meaning they have been Host Communities in Iraq” examines Marta Ruedas, the UN Humanitarian displaced for over 3 years, nearly all of the case on two fronts: the experience Coordinator in Iraq. “These studies them are at risk of long-term displace- and perceptions of IDPs in their loca- conducted by IOM and its partners are ment. Indeed, as the study shows, IDPs tion of displacement, as well as the host extremely timely as the United Na- are not (or only very slowly) moving out communities’ experience. It identifies tions’ Country Team in Iraq is in the of their districts of displacement (less factors that make IDPs feel more inte- process of advising and assisting the than 15% since May 2018) and nearly grated in their host community and, Government of Iraq and the Kurdistan all planned on staying in displacement vice versa, what makes host community Regional Government to provide digni- for at least the next 12 months. more likely to accept them. fied, sustainable solutions for the many The main reason cited by IDPs to re- The overall study shows that an IDP’s Iraqi families that remain in displace- main in displacement is destruction of economic situation is a major factor ment.” their houses in their communities of that affects their integration. For in- “UKAID is pleased to have supported origin; more out-of-camp (52%) IDPs stance, IDPs with savings during their IOM Iraq with these two innovative reported this as an obstacle than IDPs time of displacement are more likely to studies that shed further light on how residing in camp (38%). feel integrated in a host community. to unlock protracted displacement in The second study, jointly implemented “We cannot develop effective strategies Iraq,” said Jim Carpy, Representative of the UK’s Department for Interna- tional Development in Iraq. “The key findings and recommendations will inform programmes and policies aimed at advancing durable solutions to displacement.” “Research studies like these are instrumental for humanitarian and development actors alike, to ensure sustainable integration of IDPs in their communities of origin and return,” said Gerard Waite, IOM Iraq Chief of Mission. “We are pleased to have contributed to an increased understanding on the debate of durable solutions in Iraq, and we look forward to supporting the Govern- ment of Iraq and the Kurdistan Region- al Government in this endeavor.”

Humanitarian Community appeals for US$701 million to reach 1.75 million Iraqis with assistance

Baghdad, 29 April 2019 - The human- in many parts of the country, but mil- The focus of humanitarian operations itarian community in Iraq is appealing lions still need help to recover after in Iraq has shifted from providing im- for US$701 million this year to support years of conflict and trauma.” mediate assistance to those fleeing vio- 1.75 million highly vulnerable people, including a million internally displaced persons, struggling with the legacy of conflict and mass-displacement that engulfed the country from 2014 to 2017. The 2019 Humanitarian Response Plan was launched at a conference on the return of displaced persons in Baghdad today, alongside, and in complement to, the Government of Iraq’s humanitarian plans for 2019. “Humanitarian needs in Iraq have evolved since the end of large-scale military operations in late 2017,” said Ayman Gharaibeh, the acting Humani- tarian Coordinator for Iraq. “We are beginning to see a return to normal life Volume 6, Issue 2 Humanitarian Page 44

Humanitarian Community appeals for US$701 million to reach 1.75 million Iraqis with assistance (continued) lence, to a response that addresses the in out-of-camp environments; 500,000 solutions can be found.” diverse and nuanced needs of vulnera- returnees; and 200,000 Iraqis who live The 2019 Humanitarian Response Plan ble people in Iraq’s post-conflict transi- in vulnerable host communities. includes the activities of 94 humanitar- tion. “We expect the need for humanitarian ian partners, delivering assistance in Comprehensive assessments and assistance to persist in areas that were 30 priority districts across ten Iraqi strengthened data analysis identified most directly impacted by major mili- governorates. In 2018, 2.9 million peo- 6.7 million people as requiring humani- tary operations,” said Mr. Gharaibeh. ple were reached with humanitarian tarian assistance in 2019. The 2019 “Our clear focus in 2019 is on helping assistance in 107 districts. The reduced Humanitarian Response Plan has pri- all vulnerable returnees and displaced scope of the response this year, com- oritized 1.75 million people for assis- people resume a normal life in safety pared to 2018, reflects the changing tance over the next year. and dignity. This also means continu- context and nature of needs in Iraq, “The most urgent needs are in areas ing assistance to displaced people for and a planned transition from humani- where hostilities have destroyed local whom returning to home areas is not tarian relief towards recovery and du- infrastructure and led to a breakdown an option, until alternative, sustainable rable solutions. of public services and community cohesion” said Mr. Gharaibeh. “Many communities generously welcomed families displaced during the crisis but are struggling to cope with this added population pressure in the long-term.” Out of the six million people displaced during the 2014 to 2017 crisis, over four million people have since returned to their homes, while some 1.74 million people remain displaced today. The Plan will guide United Nations agencies and NGO partners in delivering humanitarian aid to 500,000 men, women, and children living in IDP camps; 550,000 displaced Iraqis living

Stabilization and Development

A youth leadership and creativity camp held in Namroud

Qaraqosh, 28 February 2019 - "We schools’ students from Qaraqosh be- and individual resilience of participants were displaced in Erbil for three years. tween 13 -18 years of age who partici- and empower youth to lead change When my family finally decided to re- pated in a youth leadership and crea- within their communities. turn to Qaraqosh, we arrived to find tivity camp in Namroud. The camp, led These activities are supported by that everything had been destroyed, and facilitated by 20 youth volunteers, USAID - US Agency for International burned, and plundered. The town was aimed to build the interpersonal skills Development. completely empty, streets full of rubble, and there were no signs of life. The dynamic felt strange, which had a neg- ative impact on my emotional state and mental health because I grew up in Qaraqosh and I am attached to it as my place of origin, and because of my neighbors and close friends. It was very difficult at the beginning, but my parents helped me to overcome my mental health problems through their continuous support. In addition, my regular participation in IOM community center activities to bring life back to the community helped me to meet new friends and become more confident and stronger. Sometimes we volunteer in cleaning campaigns and planting trees in public areas,” said Nadine, 15 years old. Nadine was one of 80 secondary Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 45

The People of Japan stand by women in Iraq with a US$ 1.3 million contribution to UNFPA

Baghdad, 03 March 2019 – The Unit- vulnerable people, in- ed Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) cluding women and extends its gratitude to the Govern- children, H.E. Mr ment and People of Japan for the gen- Naofumi Hashimoto, erous contribution of US$ 1,339,285 to Ambassador of Japan increase access to reproductive health to the Republic of Iraq services and strengthen the response to said: “Japan has re- gender-based violence across Iraq. cently decided a new While the country moves towards the assistance package for reconstruction and resilience phase, the Iraq amounting to US$ need for humanitarian assistance per- 63 million, including sists, and services established by UN- this project as a contri- FPA during the crisis need to be sus- bution to the reproduc- tained in areas of internally displaced tive health and gender- persons and returnees, and camps for based violence sectors. refugees. With this package, the This new commitment will ensure in- total amount of Japan’s creased access to emergency obstetric assistance to the people and newborn care (EmONC) as well as affected by the crisis reaches US$ 500 key partner to UNFPA, contributing a regular reproductive health services million.” total of US$ 10,552,085 million over through the financing of 21 reproduc- “A timely intervention is critical for four years in support of the Fund’s in- tive health clinics across the country. preventing maternal and newborn mor- terventions and services to women and The contribution will also go towards tality and morbidity,” said Dr Oluremi girls across Iraq. providing survivor-centred case man- Sogunro, UNFPA Representative to As of 1 February 2019, UNFPA had agement and psychosocial support to Iraq, acknowledging the generous con- only received 29 per cent of the re- gender-based violence survivors at the tribution from Japan. “This new fund- quired funding, a total of US$ 6.4 mil- UNFPA-supported women centres, ing will enable UNFPA to provide time- lion out of the US$ 22 million required capacity-building of service providers ly and quality response to the reproduc- for its humanitarian interventions in as well as community mobilisation for tive health needs and gender-based the country targeting 700,000 individu- gender-based violence prevention. violence-related issues in six gover- als through reproductive health ser- Expressing Japan’s commitment to norates across Iraq.” vices and 400,000 persons with the providing necessary services to the The Government of Japan has been a gender-based violence response.

Support for Iraq stabilization continues with EUR 2.4 million contribution from Italy

Baghdad, 03 March 2019 – The Gov- erated areas,” says Italian Ambassador has more than 3,100 projects underway ernment of Italy has contributed an to Iraq, Mr. Bruno Pasquino. in 31 liberated cities and districts, help- additional USD 2.7 million (EUR 2.4 “This fourth contribution to the FFS is ing local authorities to quickly rehabili- million) to UNDP’s Funding Facility for a testimony of the full engagement of tate essential infrastructure. More than Stabilization (FFS) supporting commu- Italy for the people of Iraq, as a quali- 95 percent of all stabilization projects nities affected by the Islamic State of fied partner in various fields, from the are done by the local private sector Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), taking its provision of services to the rehabilita- employing local labour. total contribution to USD 12.9 million. tion of infrastructure “Iraq was officially declared free from and to the capacity- ISIL just over one year ago, but that building activity in fa- doesn’t mean efforts to stabilize the vour of the Iraqi Securi- country are over,” says Mr. Gerardo ty Forces,” adds Ambas- Noto, UNDP Resident Representative sador Pasquino. a.i. for Iraq. “Now is not the time to be At the request of the scaling back funding for a programme Government of Iraq, that has helped almost three million UNDP established the displaced Iraqis return home.” Funding Facility for “It’s very heartening to see countries Stabilization in June like Italy acknowledging this and reaf- 2015 to facilitate the firming their commitment to helping return of displaced Ira- communities across Iraq rebuild their qis, lay the groundwork lives. We are grateful for this support for reconstruction and and we look forward to continue serv- recovery, and safeguard ing the people of Iraq,” adds Mr Noto. against the resurgence “Italy maintains its commitment in of violence and extrem- supporting Iraq’s stabilization efforts to ism. provide basic services to the newly lib- The Facility currently Volume 6, Issue 2 Humanitarian Page 46 UNHCR donates 2 waste collection trucks to the Hawija municipality to support rehabilitation efforts

Hawija, 3 March 2019 – UNHCR Iraq Deputy Representative, Ms. Christine Matthews, visited Hawija where she was received by the city council. The visit aimed to follow up on UNHCR quick impact projects in Hawija and to donate 2 waste collection trucks to the municipality to support rehabilitation efforts.

First comprehensive labor market survey concerning the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector in Iraq presented in Baghdad

Baghdad, 6 March 2019 - Tomas part today in the presentation of the derlined the importance that the EU Reyes Ortega, Deputy Head of the Eu- first comprehensive labor market sur- attaches to TVET as part of a lifelong ropean Union Delegation to Iraq, took vey concerning the Technical and Voca- learning process which can provide tional Education and Training (TVET) Iraqis with knowledge, know-how, sector in Iraq. This is one of the out- skills and the competences required on comes of the EU financed project the labour market, and the importance "Reforming TVET in Iraq" that is im- of developing a sound private sector in plemented by UNESCO. This project the country, echoing the words of the has brought together the Iraqi Ministry Deputy Minister of Planning, Mr. of Planning, the Ministry of Higher Qasim Enaya, who also attended the Education, the Ministry of Education, event. Mr. Reyes Ortega acknowledged the Ministry of Labor and Social Af- the work of all parties involved as the fairs, the Prime Minister Advisory project, which started in 2015, comes to Committee and the TVET Higher Com- an end in June. TVET will continue to mittee. be very present in future EU financed In his remarks, Mr. Reyes Ortega un- projects in Iraq. The National Data Platform for Reconstruction and Development: an innovative tool to promote sustainable recovery and resilience launched online by the Government of Iraq and UN-Habitat

Baghdad, 11 March 2019 - The Min- coordinate for better planning. Now General/Resident Coordina- istry of Planning and the Council of accessible to public and with interac- tor/Humanitarian Coordinator, stated Ministers Secretariat, together with tive window, the Platform will also that the Platform provides an overview UN-Habitat, today publicly launched allow the Government of Iraq to receive of the projects implemented, and ena- the National Platform for Reconstruc- feedback from its citizens on the recon- bles evidence-based planning and deci- tion and Development. For more than struction and development projects, sion making. one year, UN-Habitat has been working helping to build trust between the Gov- The Data Platform is accessible at: very closely with the Ministry of Plan- ernment and people. https://mnpcd.gov.iq/ ning to develop and finalize the Plat- H.E. Dr. Mahdi Al-Alaq, Secretary- form, with generous funding support General of the Council of Ministers, from the Iraq UNDAF Trust Fund, stated that “the Platform will advance which is a multi-donor trust fund. delivery of the commitments made at The Platform provides up-to-date key the Kuwait International Conference information on reconstruction and de- for Reconstruction of Iraq”. H.E. Dr. velopment projects. It is a web-based Noori Al-Dulaimi, Minister of Planning, GIS data system that contains analyti- commented that “through the Platform, cal reports, statistical data for projects, projects will be managed in a transpar- as well as interactive maps of projects ent manner and monitored by the inter- locations. By sharing project infor- national community”. Ms. Marta mation, the Platform will enable rele- Ruedas, Deputy Special Representative vant actors to avoid duplication and of the United Nations Secretary- Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 47 Denmark further increases support to stabilize liberated areas in Iraq

Baghdad, 12 March 2019 – The Gov- the 6th largest donor of the pro- tions. As such, this generous contribu- ernment of The Kingdom of Denmark gramme. tion comes at precisely the right time”. has contributed an additional DKK 50 UNDP Head of Stabilization, Dr. Mo- The Danish Ambassador, Mr. Gert million (USD 7.7 million) to UNDP’s hammed S. Mudawi, said: “Enormous Meinecke, said: “We congratulate the Funding Facility for Stabilization progress has been made across the lib- Government of Iraq and the UNDP for (FFS), which finances initiatives for erated areas. Millions have returned the FFS which has been very instru- rapid stabilization of areas liberated home and communities are getting mental in facilitating the return of mil- from the Islamic State of Iraq and the back on their feet. However, with the lions of internally displaced persons in Levant (ISIL). This brings Denmark’s rate of people returning home slowing Iraq to the at-risk areas liberated from total contribution since 2015 to DKK significantly, UNDP is prioritizing are- ISIL. Denmark remain commit- 296 million (USD 46 million), making it as with the most severe return condi- ted to supporting the FFS and encourage all parties to continue find solutions for the remaining 1.8 million internally displaced people in Iraq”. At the request of the Government of Iraq, UNDP established the Funding Facility for Stabilization in June 2015 to facilitate the return of displaced Ira- qis, lay the groundwork for reconstruction and recovery, and safeguard against the emergence of violent extremism. Almost 2,500 projects are either completed or underway, helping local authorities to quickly rehabilitate essential infrastructure and basic services. More than 95 percent of all stabilization projects are carried out local companies, supporting the local jobs and the stimulating the economy.

Restoration of 15,000 homes underway in Mosul, largest in Iraq

Baghdad, 13 March 2019 – The Unit- holds where the breadwinner has not agreed to by the homeowner and the ed Nations Development Programme had employment in the last three local Muktar prior to commencement, (UNDP) is rehabilitating 15,000 houses years. and work is monitored by government- in West Mosul, bringing the total num- Essential elements such as rebuilding appointed committees. ber of houses in its stabilization portfo- and plastering walls, securing windows Rehabilitation of the first group of lio to more than 30,000 – the largest of and doors, undertaking electrical work houses will be complete by end of its kind in Iraq. and restoring sanitation are incorpo- March. The entire project is scheduled The project in West Mosul covers 29 rated into the rehabilitation, plus addi- to be completed by November 2019. neighbourhoods that were hardest hit tional items for people living with a Approximately 800 stabilization pro- during the fight to liberate the city disability, such as ramps and seated jects have been completed or are under- from the Islamic State, including the toilets. way by UNDP in Mosul, including re- Old City where the militants declared Neighbourhoods were selected in con- storing water and electricity networks, their caliphate. It will enable 90,000 sultation with the provincial govern- rebuilding educational institutions and people to return home. ment and Mayor’s office based on num- healthcare facilities, and providing “This rehabilitation project is a critical bers of returnees and level of damage employment for locals to clear rubble step for families wanting to settle back sustained. All housing repairs are from streets. into their homes in Mosul after three years of turmoil and hardship,” says Head of UNDP’s Stabilization programme, Dr. Mohammed Siddig Mudawi. “We know it works. Through our successful projects in Ramadi and Fallu- jah, as well as Bartella and Bashiqa in the Ninewa Plains, we’ve witnessed first-hand the transformative impact that our housing rehabilitation work has had on communities,” he adds. Priority for housing is given to the most vulnerable – female-headed households, households run by a minor, people living with a disability, and house- Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 48

UN Resident Coordinator discusses Basra with Minister of Planning

Baghdad, 14 March 2019 - Ms. Marta Ruedas, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General (DSRSG) and United Nations Resident and Humani- tarian Coordinator for Iraq, met today with Iraq’s Minister of Planning, Nouri Sabah al-Dulaimi, in Baghdad to discuss cooperation in the southern governorates. They agreed that water, electricity, and jobs are key priorities in Basra, and collective efforts are needed to improve service delivery. Ms. Ruedas emphasized that there is a need to strengthen the private sector to create more employment opportunities. She also offered to extend the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) quick-impact reconstruction programme, the Funding Facility for norates if the Government chooses to Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Plan- Stabilization, into the southern gover- put funds into these projects. ning.

IOM Iraq provided agricultural training on how to run greenhouses as businesses

Erbil, 15 March 2019 - Through an access to land agreement with Iraq’s Ministry of Agriculture and Water Re- sources in 2017, IOM Iraq provided agricultural training on how to run greenhouses as businesses, for Syrian refugee, displaced Iraq and local community members in the Kurdistan Re- gion of Iraq. The program aims to enable beneficiaries to produce agricultural products in order to support their families. The program was funded by the US Department of State, Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM).

A practical training workshop on Geographic Information System (GIS) Cloud Services and Multi-User management held in Karbala

Baghdad, 24 March 2019 - UNDP’s Iraq IPSM Project coordinated a practical training workshop on Geographic

Information System(GIS) Cloud Ser- vices and Multi-User management, aims to develop centralized and distributed databases for the various department in Karbala governorate. Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 49

Peace education in Iraq: laying a foundation for sustainable development

Basra, 14 March 2019 – Strengthen- ing the capacity of universities across Iraq to contribute to the achievement of SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong In- stitutions, UNDP Iraq, national NGO, Iraq Al-Amal and the UNESCO Chair for Peace Studies at the University of Innsbruck, together launched a new national curriculum - “Diploma Pro- gramme for Peace and Conflict Stud- ies”, which will be piloted in October 2019. With the endorsement of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Re- search (MOHESR), the curriculum was drafted with the participation of 14 academicians from Baghdad, Tikrit, Anbar, Mosul, Kufa, Babylon, and Bas- ra universities, and designed to admit graduate students from any BA Pro- gramme. Admission of the first cohort of the two semester programme will be women) on conflict assess- to share common ground when com- determined through evaluation by an ment/analysis, dialogue, negotiation municating about peace and conflict in academic board. and facilitation, which will further ena- Iraq, especially in the implementation In Iraq, a country with a conflict-torn ble the effective delivery of the new of the new curriculum. history, from colonialism to the regime Diploma curriculum. Dr Mohammedsiddig Mudawi, Head of of Saddam Hussein, the foreign inva- “In an economy that knows the value of Stabilization, UNDP Iraq, commented sion of 2003 and the rise of ISIS, reoc- people, we know how to communicate on the enthusiasm of attending acade- curring conflict has contributed to the with each other, we know how to coop- micians, all anxious to see the results of creation of a status quo that sees many erate with each other, we feel the em- the pilot Diploma in October at Bagh- communities traumatized and divided. pathy for the suffering of the other but dad University, “For the first time, This curriculum is the first step toward also the joy of the other – and that’s academicians from different fields of a theoretical understanding of peace what peace studies is about, that’s why study – psychology, law and sociology, and non-violent conflict transformation; we need it in universities. I think in are coming together to explore the idea and lays the ground work for communi- many societies we have lost this ability, of Peace Studies, which is indeed still ty engagement by educated practition- and peace studies can contribute a lot in its infancy in many Iraqi Universi- ers. to their recovery – I think Iraq is a ties. The fact that we could gather so Jamal Aljawaheri, Executive Director place where people long for that,” de- many academicians not only to develop of Iraq Al-Amal, explains, “Peace Edu- scribed Wolfgang Dietrich, UNESCO the curriculum together, but to em- cation is cost-effective and sustainable. Chairholder for Peace Studies at the brace it at today’s launch, is a testa- If we are able to educate the leaders of University of Innsbruck. ment to the enthusiasm and passion of tomorrow in ideas of peaceful coexist- In 2018, UNDP and Iraqi Al-Amal also Iraqi society and their desire to achieve ence and conflict transformation, these supported 11 academicians and experts a peaceful co-existence.” ideas will permeate into communities (4 from Iraq, and 7 from the region) to The development and launch of the and in time, lessen the burden of mili- develop the first-ever Arabic language Diploma Programme for Peace and tary and police costs associated with Peace Lexicon, which has since been Conflict Studies Curriculum and Arabic on-going violence and the security cur- adopted nationally as a key strategic Peace Lexicon was made possible with rently required to keep others safe. tool for peace education. With over 263 generous funding from the Government Keeping in mind, this must be well key terms relating to peace and con- of Japan. informed and context specific ideas of flict, this lexicon will enable academics peace and conflict.” UNDP Iraq and Eastern Menonnite University previously collaborated on Peace Education in Iraq, having been instrumental in the establishment and capacity development of the Iraqi Uni- versities Consortium for Peace Studies between 2016-2017, which has since advocated for the integration of peace studies into the higher education systems in Iraq. Subsequently, the partnership with the University of Innsbruck has enabled the training of 23 Academicians (6 Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 50 UN Environment assessment visit to Kirkuk

Kirkuk, 26 March 2019 - UN Envi- ronment and the United Nations Assis- tance Mission for Iraq completed a rapid assessment of destroyed villages in Multaqa, Kirkuk, Iraq to better understand the nature and extent of damaged settlements. The delegation was welcomed by the Head of Multaqa Sub- District, Hassan Abd Al-Naseef, who explained that 26 out of 36 villages comprising some 9,400 houses in his Sub-District were completely destroyed. Abd Al-Naseef pointed to the school he attended as a child, a landmark building in a verdant countryside with a red roof, which collapsed onto the class- rooms. “It deeply saddens me that the bestos and chemicals. ronment Programme Manager, Hassan next generation of children now has to “We are here to discuss with local au- Partow, member of the visiting delega- take classes in a trailer, rather than in thorities realistic options for debris tion. a school”. removal that is appropriate for Kir- Upon observing the level of destruction In October 2017, the last vestiges of kuk’s specific rural context. It is im- first-hand, Martijn Dalhuijsen, the Kirkuk Governorate were liberated portant to come up with cost-effective liaison for UNAMI’s Development Coor- from ISIL. There is great concern over solutions that will help facilitate the dination Office in Kirkuk, said that he how to deal with the colossal volumes of return of displaced communities and looks forward to work with all key debris created by the conflict some of avoid unplanned debris disposal that stakeholders, including the Govern- which may be contaminated with unex- can create serious health and environment and NGOs, to plan an integrated ploded ordinance, booby-traps and oth- mental risks and burdensome economic debris removal management strategy. er hazardous materials, including as- liabilities in the future”, said UN Envi- Debris recovery planning processes have been initiated in Mosul (February 2018) and Ramadi (November 2018) which have included setting-up recycling centers thanks to technical advice from UN Environment in partnership the local Government, UNDP Stabiliza- tion Fund, IOM, UN-Habitat, universities and the Ministry of Health and Environment. We would like to replicate this best practice in Kirkuk and convene a technical workshop on Debris Management with the help of UNEP, Kirkuk University, the Government of Kirkuk, the authorities in Affected Are- as, UNMAS and UNAMI.

UNDP and EU discuss lessons learned from stabilization projects

Brussels, Belgium, 26 March 2019 - UNDP Iraq was in Brussels to discuss lessons learned from stabilization programs in Iraq, Libya, Yemen and Nige- ria with the European Union partners. Photos of UNDP activities in these countries were on display in the Parc Royal.

Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 51

UN-Habitat handed over three new urban settlements of durable core houses to vulnerable returnees

Baghdad, 26 March 2019 - The Unit- ed Nations Human Settlements Pro- gramme (UN-Habitat) officially handed over today a total of 286 durable core houses in three sites located in Ramadi, Fallujah and Karma, Anbar Gover- norate. Aiming at achieving the full realization of the right to adequate housing as a component of the right to an adequate standard of living, these sites were developed under the project titled “Gender-Sensitive Durable Shel- ter Support for Internally Displaced Persons in Iraq”, generously funded by the Government of Japan. During the conflict with ISIL, more than 29,000 houses were completely destroyed. Most of the owners of these destroyed houses were left without meaningful support to address their lack of housing, making it difficult to return. Under this project, UN-Habitat piping materials produced by the Japa- port and affirmed the commitment of constructed durable core houses to ac- nese company “Higashio Mech Fit Co. the United Nations to work in Anbar commodate vulnerable returnees whose Ltd.” are used in the housing units. In through collaboration with the gover- houses had been completely destroyed. addition to this project, Japan has re- norate counterparts. The three urban sites were planned, cently decided a new assistance pack- “The new core-house settlements in designed and developed through close age for Iraq amounting to USD 63 mil- Ramadi, Falluja and Karma were community engagement and provided lion, which includes an UN-Habitat planned by UN-Habitat as cities exten- with basic services and infrastructure project as a contribution to rehabilitate sions where vulnerable returnees will including roads, electricity, water and war-damaged houses and establish low- have access to basic services and liveli- sewage networks. These core houses cost housing units to accommodate vul- hood opportunities to enable the re- are designed and constructed in such a nerable returnees.” turnees to rebuild their lives”, stated way that returnees can expand the Ms. Marta Ruedas, Deputy Special Dr. Erfan Ali, Deputy Regional Director living space either horizontally or verti- Representative of the United Nations of UN-Habitat. cally if and when they wish to do so. Secretary-General/Resident Coordina- They are built on sites that are adja- The project represents significant con- tor/Humanitarian Coordinator, praised cent to city centers, with access to ser- tribution to integrate urban planning the resilience of the population evident vices and livelihoods so that it is easier and physical interventions for post- in the progress made in reconstruction for the returnees to rebuild their lives. conflict recovery and resilience as the so far and underscored the importance UN-Habitat is tackling some of the development of the core houses to ac- of this project as a model for the rest of causal issues of conflict and supporting commodate vulnerable displaced people Iraq, providing support to victims of peaceful return through its continuous who lost their homes is one of the key fully destroyed houses. Ms. Ruedas also efforts in addressing Housing, Land pillars of the “Housing Reconstruction thanked the Government of Japan and and Property rights of returnees in Strategy”, which has been developed by the Governorate of Anbar for their sup- Iraq. the Government of Iraq and UN- Habitat to provide guidance for housing reconstruction and development in conflict-affected areas. Mr. Jasim Mohammed, Deputy Gover- nor of Anbar, expressed his hope to make Iraq a peaceful country with support from the United Nations and the international community, and ensured that the governorate will provide basic services including electricity, water and sanitation services to the beneficiaries of the project after the handover. His Excellency Mr. Naofumi Hashimo- to, Ambassador of Japan to the Repub- lic of Iraq, said that“I would like to extend my appreciation to all the people involved in this project. I sincerely hope houses constructed by this project will ease difficulties of vulnerable returnees. It is noteworthy that water Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 52

A delegation from Iraq benefit from Egyptian experience in support to legal aid and dispute settlement in family courts

Cairo, Egypt, 27 March 2019 - A delegation from Family Reconciliation Centers in Kurdistan Region in the Republic of Iraq came to visit Egypt for a study tour in order to profit the Egyp- tian experience that was successful. Those centers that exist in 6 cities and towns (Erbil, Sulaimania, Duhok, Garmyan, Raparin and Soran) are operating as a part of Directorate of Com- bating Violence Against Women (DCVAW). The goal of these centers is to provide the needed services to survivors of Gen- der Based Violence (GBV) to achieve justice through guiding them through the laws and procedures. Also, they provide consultation to those who do not want to register a complain but need legal, social and psychosocial guidance to resolve their problems. The delegation is composed from the family courts located in Cairo and Alex- help people in Egypt to get support. heads of the six Family Reconciliation andria and observed legal aid offices, Ezzulddin Abdullah Yaseen, Legal Con- Committees who are seeking to learn dispute settlement offices and family sultant Supervisor of the Family Recon- how the reconciliation services are pro- prosecution office in order to profit from ciliation Centers in KR-I said “I found vided to the domestic violence cases in the Egyptian experience that was suc- the study tour to Egypt extremely use- Egypt so that they can add to their cessful. They want to learn how to rec- ful and informative. I especially ad- knowledge and experience to Family oncile amongst family members when mired the new data base system used Reconciliation Centers in the Kurdistan there is a dispute, so they came to learn by the Egyptian Family Courts that Region of Iraq. from the Egyptian experience in order enables the justice system and the case In 2008, UNDP Egypt in collaboration to implement the good practices in their owners to have access to all the rele- with the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) center when they are back to Iraq. vant documents to any case from any have started to introduce the Legal Aid Also, they had the opportunity to visit Justice facility anywhere in the coun- Offices (LAOs) in Family Courts as well at the Women Complain Office of the try. I think this would be a great pro- as strengthen the mediation function of National Council for Women and a ject to be implemented in Kurdistan to Dispute Settlement Offices (DSOs) with shelter for women managed by the Min- reduce paper work and accelerate pro- support from Sweden’s International istry of Social Solidarity during their cedures as they are known to take Development Agency from 2014. visit in Egypt to know about Egypt’s months.” The goal of establishing Legal Aid Of- efforts on social services and protection This is a good example for sharing ex- fices is to provide free legal advice for to victims of gender-based violence. perience between countries in the Arab all family cases; provide free legal as- They wanted to learn how Egyptians region leveraging knowledge and advo- sistance for family cases which do not were able to handle family disputes, cating for change through connecting require the lawyers’ signature such as investigation for family disputes and countries. Moreover, it is helping us to (visitation rights, custody, alimony, violence against women. Also, they achieve better results and realize the inheritance); raise legal awareness wanted to see how the family courts are #NextGenUNDP vision. among citizens with regards to Family functioning and the legal aid systems to Courts; provide information on the documents required for litigation processes and help litigants complete the necessary judicial procedures; support the submission of settlement requests; and women’s access to their alimony in the shortest time possible. The legal aid offices in Egypt supported more than 1 million cases, out of which 68% were women cases between 2009 and 2018, and employees from Legal Aid Offices and employees from Dis- pute Settlement Offices attended more than 30 trainings in order to know how to deal with litigants. Also, 240 judges from family courts participated in seven roundtable discussions to enhance the efficiency of handling cases. The Iraqi delegation came to visit the Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 53

EU-funded programme launched in Iraq to support recovery and stability through local development

an Coordinator, Ms. Marta Ruedas, reiterated: “Creating job opportunities, improving living conditions, upgrading public services, and integrating eco- friendly practices are some of our top priorities when it comes to local development in Iraq. Women and youth are an integral part in this process. The EU support represents a lifeline for communities struggling to make ends meet, as well as to promote good governance at the local level.” Head of UN-Habitat Iraq, a.i., Ms. Yu- ko Otsuki, thanked the European Un- ion for its generous contribution to the urban recovery in Iraq, and stated: “UN-Habitat will implement priority urban recovery activities, such as the rehabilitation of housing, schools, and public spaces, repairs to secondary in- Basra, 28 March 2019 – The Europe- by us in this difficult time.” frastructure, job creation, skill en- an Union (EU), the United Nations Governor of Basra, Mr. Asaad Al Ei- hancement, and revenue generation.” Development Programme (UNDP), and dani, stated: “The people of Basra and Ms. Otsuki assured that UN-Habitat is the UN Human Settlements Pro- other governorates across our country committed to continue working, to programme (UN-Habitat) continue to work have rightful demands. They need ade- mote recovery, resilience and recon- together to help the people of Iraq in quate public services, plenty of jobs, struction in Iraq. their pursuit of recovery and stability. and all the help they can get to build a The programme will help the Govern- On 28 March 2019, representatives of better life for them and their children. ment of Iraq to strengthen the efficien- federal and local authorities, communi- We are committed to working closely cy of the country’s institutions and re- ty leaders, non-governmental organiza- with our government, local communi- new the social contract between citi- tions, businesses, academia, as well as ties, and partners to maximize the im- zens and the state. It revolves around implementing partners, gathered in the pact of this new EU-funded programme improving the ability of selected gover- city of Basra, South of Iraq, to launch a and may be replicate with our own norates to efficiently manage local gov- new programme. funds.” ernment and public services. Economic With EU funding of €47.5 million over 4 Head of the EU Delegation to the Re- growth and job creation are prioritized, years, the programme aims at support- public of Iraq, H.E. Ambassador Ramon with a focus on green projects involving ing the implementation of local priority Blecua, said: “The European Union is youth and women, in addition to en- actions, derived from the Provincial strongly committed to assist the Gov- hancing the living conditions of return- Development Plans and the Sustaina- ernment of Iraq in its efforts to shape a ees and in conflict affected areas. ble Energy Action Plans developed un- more inclusive and accountable local Building upon the momentum created der the Local Area Development Pro- development. This new EU-funded pro- by the recently concluded LADP II, the gramme (LADP II), that address the gram will ensure better services and programme will be implemented in the top priorities of each governorate and livelihoods opportunities for the Iraqi following nine Governorates: Anbar, pilot ways to translate policy into prac- population, responding to the urgent Basra, Duhok, Erbil, Missan, Ninewah, tice. In addition, supporting the decen- needs affecting Basra and other Gover- Salah al-Din, Sulaimaniyah, and Thi tralization of powers from central to norates across the country.'' Qar. local authorities, including through the Deputy Special Representative of the The programme fact sheet can be down- development of institutional capacities, United Nations Secretary-General, loaded through the link: the optimization of revenue generation Resident Coordinator and Humanitari- https://bit.ly/2Wlw17e. systems, peer-to-peer partnerships with EU local authorities, the empowerment of civil society to advocate for local development causes, mobilization of additional resources, and improvement of donor coordination will be part of the activities. Minister of Planning at the Federal Government of Iraq, Dr. Nouri Al Dulaimi, said: “Iraqi communities are eager to recover after years of conflict and instability. And, we are doing our utmost to address their needs. Develop- ment at the local level is a step in the right direction. We are grateful that the EU, UNDP and UN-Habitat stand right Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 54

Japan provides an additional $5.4 million for UN-Habitat’s Reconstruction and Peacebuilding Programme in Iraq

Baghdad, 03 April 2019 - The United mately 2,500 returnees are expected to continuous generous support which Nations Human Settlements Pro- benefit from this project, and priorities allows integration of the New Urban gramme (UN-Habitat) welcomes an will be given to vulnerable households Agenda and physical interventions for additional contribution of USD 5.4 mil- including female-headed households, post-conflict reconstruction and peace- lion from the Government of Japan to those with elderly, infants and children building. The development of sites for support reconstruction and peacebuild- under age 6, or physically impaired. low-cost housing units designed to ac- ing in Iraq through the rehabilitation of His Excellency Mr. Naofumi Hashimo- commodate vulnerable displaced people war-damaged houses and construction to, Ambassador of Japan to the Repub- who lost their homes is one of the pil- of low-cost housing units in key liberat- lic of Iraq said: “Japan has recently lars of the “Housing Reconstruction ed cities. decided a new assistance package for Strategy” recently developed by the More than one year from the declara- Iraq amounting to US$ 63 million, in- Government of Iraq and UN-Habitat to tion of the military victory over so- cluding this project as a contribution to enhance and accelerate housing recon- called ISIL in 2017, more than 1.7 mil- the housing sector. With this package, struction and development in conflict- lion people are still displaced in Iraq. the total amount of Japan’s assistance affected areas. The rehabilitation of severely damaged to the people affected by the crisis With a contribution of approximately structures and rebuilding of fully de- reaches US$ 500 million.” $50 million since 2015, the Government stroyed houses are extremely costly and UN-Habitat is grateful to the people of Japan has been a vital partner to require robust engineering expertise. and the Government of Japan for their UN-Habitat’s Iraq Programme. IDPs with their severely damaged or fully destroyed homes are still in dire need of support. Through the additional funding UN- Habitat will be able to continue its community-based interventions and the rehabilitation of “severely damaged” houses and the construction of low-cost housing units to accommodate vulnerable returnees whose houses are “destroyed.” Returnees and members of affected communities will be trained on skills required for the works and recruited under the project to support rebuilding their livelihoods. Approxi- UNDP in Iraq and GOAL Global support youth to advocate for social change and a brighter future

Duhok, 3 April 2019 - One year after boys and girls – inc. IDPs, Syrian refu- “When I play volleyball, I feel strong. liberation from ISIL, youth in Misureek gees and Host community members, We played like men. We are showing are determined to advocate for social received training on aspects of social our community that we can do every- change and a brighter future. cohesion inc. advocacy, and conflict thing, if we have the opportunity to do Eager to promote a multicultural and resolution. These youth then designed it,” Vian Qasim Muhammed, 16 years, peaceful society, UNDP Iraq, GOAL eight events, hoping to spread messag- IDP volleyball player from Mosul. and University of Duhok - UoD have es of peace and bring together people “This is the first volleyball match for been working together to foster social from across the community. One of girls happening in public. We wanted to cohesion in Misureek, Duhok. these events, was a young women’s conduct this initiative particularly to Through this partnership, 20 young volleyball tournament. advocate for women’s participation in public life through their engagement in sports. This tournament will just be the starting point,” Sarbast Abdulkhaliq, 24 years, volunteer from Misureek. “The Misureek volunteers are determined to increase the awareness of the vital role of women in the peace and social cohesion of our society, “ Gharib Mustafa Ibraheem, 27 years, Universi- ty of Duhok - UoD, Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies, Youth Coordinator. This project is part of UNDP Iraq’s Misureek Area Based Recovery Project that is implemented by GOAL with generous funding from the Government of Japan. Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 55

Building capacities of Iraqi negotiators in trade in services

Amman, Jordan, 4 April 2019 – As the Government of Morocco, had sup- the Iraqi delegation. part of its continuous effort to support ported the team with an on-the-job The training equipped Iraqi officials the modernization of trade policies in training in trade in goods under the with adequate knowledge and technical the Arab countries towards the creation framework of South-South cooperation. skills in the development of national of a Pan Arab market, UNDP Regional Fifteen officials and negotiators from policies toward their forthcoming par- Bureau for Arab States organized a seven ministries and governmental ticipation to the Arab Agreement on workshop on trade in services for the agencies in charge of trade in services trade in services. Participants were national team of trade negotiators of attended the training and actively en- provided with substantive understand- the Government of Iraq. gaged in technical discussion on the ing of modalities of negotiation of trade The training represented a first step content of the WTO General Agreement in services, in line with international toward the design of technical commit- in Trade in Services and the Arab practices. Best practices from the re- ments for the accession of Iraq to the Agreement in Trade in Services. Offi- gion have also been highlighted Arab Agreement in Trade in Services. cials of the League of Arab States also through practical exercises, interactive In 2018, UNDP in collaboration with participated to the training in assisting exchange of views among national policy makers and dedicated sessions to discuss ways forward. The training was delivered by UNDP experts and Mr. Khairedine Ramoul, Economic Affairs Officer at UNCTAD, in a joint partnership to support Arab countries to align trade policies and practices to multilateral platforms of global trade within their economic di- versification programmes. Iraqi officials, participants from the League of Arab States and UNDP expressed high appreciation to the support provided by the Swedish Interna- tional Development Cooperation Agen- cy (Sida) to Arab countries and to the LAS for the promotion of regional economic integration and cooperation.

Karbala University taking steps into E-Transformation

Erbil, 9 April 2019 – As part of the gathering twenty senior officials and UNDP through IPSM Programme has continues support of the United Na- academics from Karbala University, as introduced the e-learning approach to tions Development Programme (UNDP) part of the technical support provided two institutions in Iraq; University of to the University of Karbala, a work- by the Public Sector Modernization Karbala, and National Centre for Man- shop has been conducted for the period (IPSM) Programme to the e-learning agement Development and Information 1 to 5 April on the e-learning modules, units of Karbala University. Technology (NCMDIT) within the Min- istry of Planning (MoP). DG of the Continuing Learning Center, Prof. Ahmed Hadi Al Yasari said: “this workshop is very important as it is conducted in conjunction with the launching of the e-learning development plan of Karbala university for the years 2019-2022. The implementation of this plan requires vital efforts and cooperation between the two parties to make Karbala University an advanced university in e-learning, thus improving the quality of education”. As a result, a team of management and situation analytics specialized in e- Learning has been established in Kar- bala university, the team will work to explore the best options for transferring into the e-Learning system, depending on international practices provided during the workshop and presentations of global experiences including some of the well-known Egyptian and British universities. Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 56

With support from Japan, WFP helps people rebuild lives and livelihoods after years of conflict in Iraq lion will be used to assist some 200,000 displaced people with food and cash transfers to meet their food needs. An additional US$2.2 million will provide livelihoods opportunities for 13,000 returnees and vulnerable members of local communities. Cash transfers have the added value of injecting liquidity into the local economy. “In 2019, WFP is shifting to more sustainable solutions, coupling its emergency response for displaced communities with livelihoods programmes that encourage self-reliance rather than dependence on humanitarian assistance,” said WFP Iraq’s Representative, Sally Haydock. “We can only do this Baghdad, 10 April 2019 - The Gov- local communities. through strong partnerships with government of Japan has contributed “Japan has provided an overall assis- ernments such as Japan and other hu- US$9.2 million to the United Nations tance package for Iraq of US$63 million manitarian stakeholders.” World Food Programme (WFP) to ena- in 2019, including this particular con- In line with efforts to break the cycle of ble it to transition its programmes in tribution to food security,” said H.E. food and nutrition insecurity, WFP is Iraq from primarily humanitarian to Mr. Naofumi Hashimoto, Ambassador working to provide assistance to vul- more development-related assistance. of Japan to the Republic of Iraq. “With nerable people in Iraq in a more holistic As WFP faces a shortage of resources in this package, the total amount of manner. Asset-rehabilitation activities Iraq, this timely donation from Japan Japan’s assistance to the people affect- contribute to the country’s stabilisa- will help address the food insecurity of ed by the crisis reaches US$500 mil- tion, support dignified and voluntary internally displaced families and en- lion.” returns, and help people rebuild liveli- hance the resilience of returnees and Of the funds given to WFP, US$7 mil- hoods undermined by years of conflict. Japan, IOM partner to address drivers of instability and fragility in displacement and return locations in Iraq

Baghdad, 9 April 2019 - Iraq is at a building activities to strengthen local This project will support the Govern- critical juncture, emerging from a bru- capacity to resolve conflict peacefully; ment to operationalize this nexus by tal conflict with ISIL and a long history and support small and medium sized simultaneously and holistically ad- of internal conflict, which has resulted enterprises to address the critical lack dressing economic, social and security in massive displacement and a setback of job opportunities. A particular focus drivers of fragility in vulnerable com- in the country’s economic and social will be on engaging self-demobilised munities.” development. Today, Iraq grapples with former combatants who, with the end of The project will build on the rich histo- the cumulative effects of past conflicts active combat with ISIL, are now seek- ry of cooperation between IOM, the on its development, which has left the ing to re-establish their lives in their Government of Japan, and the Govern- country vulnerable to the recurrence of areas of origin. ment of Iraq. In 2018-19, with the sup- conflict. “In the words of UN Secretary General port of the Government of Japan, IOM Earlier this month, IOM and the Gov- Guterres, prevention of conflict is not trained local government and civil soci- ernment of Japan launched an innova- merely a priority, but the priority”, said ety partners on ways to mitigate ten- tive project that aims to address the IOM Chief of Mission in Iraq, Gerard sions and rebuild relations in communi- drivers of instability and fragility in Waite. “In many of its key policy docu- ties in areas of return. IOM also part- locations of displacement and return in ments, the Government of Iraq recog- nered with different Iraqi universities Iraq. Offering a timely response to the nizes the linkages between security and to better understand Iraq’s cycle of challenges facing Iraq, this project will development, which is often referred to conflict and violence and identify ways support the Government of Iraq to as the security-development nexus. in which the cycle can be broken. tackle the drivers of instability in both Naofumi Hashimoto, Ambassador of the security and development domains, Japan to the Republic of Iraq said: thereby building more resilient commu- “Japan has recently decided a new as- nities and improving trust and confi- sistance package for Iraq amounting to dence in government institutions. USD 63 million, including this project In close collaboration with local govern- as a contribution to achieving a peace- ment authorities and community lead- ful society and economic development ers, IOM will establish community po- in Iraq under a new approach of inte- licing forums (CPF) to improve commu- grating security and development initi- nication and trust between community atives. With this package, the total members and law enforcement agencies amount of Japan’s assistance to the on local security and development is- people affected by the crisis reaches sues; roll out social cohesion and peace- USD 500 million.” Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 57

Creativity flourishes as Mosul’s Fine Arts College officially opens

Mosul, 10 April 2019 – The newly- rehabilitated College of Fine Arts at Mosul University was officially opened by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Government of Iraq. The College, rehabilitated by UNDP with financial support from the United States Government through USAID, offers third-level art courses ranging from music, theatre, painting, and sculpture, and will benefit 600 students from across Iraq. The renovation work included plastering and repainting the classroom walls, UNDP Stabilization, Dr Mohammed- the College of Fine Arts, where1 I am repairing doors and windows, replacing siddig Mudawi. proud to see that students are once the roof and restoring electrical sys- “Art as a form of expression has allowed again in class.” tems. people of Mosul – many of them stu- The ceremony included a theatrical During ISIL’s occupation of Mosul be- dents who have been born into years of performance by art students as well as tween 2014 and 2017, the College suf- conflict – heal from the atrocities faced an art exhibition in the College’s refur- fered extensive damage and subse- under ISIL. It’s wonderful to see a reju- bished courtyard. quently closed. Artworks were de- venation of this artistic talent here at The College rehabilitation project is also stroyed and strewn across the campus, the College,” adds Dr. Mudawi. supported by the Government of Cana- as art-making was believed to contra- Joey Hood, Chargé d'Affaires of the US da, which funded the rehabilitation of dict Islamic State ideology. Mission in Iraq, says: “Through the water pump station on campus. Mean- “Mosul once sat at the epicentre of United Nations Development Program while, the United Kingdom’s Depart- Iraq’s cultural identity, so the reopening Funding Facility for Stabilization, the ment for International Development of this college is a significant milestone United States is rehabilitating 14 build- (DFID) has funded the supply of furni- for local communities,” says Head of ings here at Mosul University, including ture and equipment for the College. UNIDO, Japan to boost economic resilience and long-term stability for IDPs and returnees in Iraq

Mosul, 12 April 2019 – The United people and communities, in particular generation activities, and provide tech- Nations Industrial Development Or- IDPs and returnees, in order to ensure nical skills training for youth. In addi- ganization (UNIDO) and the Govern- livelihoods and social stability for all,” tion, the upgrading of vocational train- ment of Japan are teaming up to foster said UNIDO Project Manager Noriko ing centres and national institutions the social stabilization and economic Takahashi. will ensure long-term institutional ca- resilience of internally displaced per- Stavros Papastavrou, UNIDO Project pacity-building contributing to the sons (IDPs) and returnees in the Nine- Manager, added that: “In the Nineveh overall resettlement and stabilization veh Governorate of Iraq. This is one of Governorate of Iraq, there is a tremen- of the local economy. nine new projects implemented by dous need to support the re- Naofumi Hashimoto, Ambassador of UNIDO which Japan has recently establishment of the most vital compo- Japan to the Republic of Iraq said: agreed to fund, totalling US$5.8 mil- nents of civil society and to restore the “Japan has recently decided on a new lion. technical capacities of governmental assistance package for Iraq amounting The Nineveh Governorate hosts the institutions with an overall goal to fos- to USD 63 million, including this pro- highest number of IDPs and returnees ter socio-economic revival in a sustaina- ject as a contribution to enhancing em- out of all Governorates in Iraq. The ble way.” ployment and food security. With this families and individuals returning to The project aims to revitalize micro and package, the total amount of Japan’s their towns often face a lack of liveli- small enterprises that were operational assistance to the people affected by the hoods, social cohesion and security. before the crisis, establish new income- crisis reaches USD 500 million.” With the highest countrywide poverty rates linked with unemployment and food insecurity, hardships are exacer- bated for IDPs, returnees, and host communities alike. UNIDO and Japan have therefore partnered to harness the productive capacities of IDPs and returnees through entrepreneurship and technical skills upgrading, as well as to contribute to institutional capacity- building to ensure long-term and sustainable assistance to civil society. “There is an urgent need to revive the local economy and generate employment opportunities for conflict-affected Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 58 Japan provides support to restore critical services in Iraq’s newly liberated areas

Baghdad, 14 April 2019 – The Gov- energy solutions for critical infrastruc- ernment of Japan has awarded close to ture such as health facilities, schools, USD 4 million to the United Nations other public buildings or streets. Office for Project Services (UNOPS) to H.E. Mr Naofumi Hashimoto, Ambas- implement a project aimed at enhanc- sador of Japan to the Republic of Iraq ing the living conditions and safety of said: “Japan has recently decided a new the Iraqi population living in the newly assistance package for Iraq amounting liberated areas. to US$ 63 million, including this project The project, “Restoring access to critical as a contribution to improvement of the urban services in liberated areas,” fo- living conditions of the returnees in ergy solutions and solid waste disposal, cuses on restoring access to critical Anbar governorate by restoring access in partnership with the Government of urban services. It is expected that over to critical urban services such as water Japan. Restoring access to critical ur- 100,000 people who live in the newly and sanitation, transport, energy and ban services in liberated areas, where liberated areas in Anbar, will benefit solid waste management. With this most of the related damage has oc- from the project that will be imple- package, the total amount of Japan’s curred, is essential in order to ensure mented in coordination with the local assistance to the people affected by the that returnees are provided with decent authorities and partners. The project crisis reaches US$ 500 million.” living conditions.” will respond to the immediate needs of Usman Akram, Director of UNOPS UNOPS has been active in Iraq since the communities in providing equip- Operational Hub in Amman said, “we 2004, delivering close to 50 projects ment for solid waste management, re- are proud to support returnees and worth over $260 million, and support- habilitation of urban water facilities vulnerable host communities in newly ing more than 500 projects implement- and roads, and provision of renewable liberated areas through innovative ened by Iraqi civil society organizations. UNESCO launched an Assessment report of the labor market and skills analysis in KR-I with the Central Government

Erbil, 15 April 2019 - UNESCO with potential and sectors conducive to fos- ertshaw, said, “the hope of these re- support of the European Union and in tering youth employment, decent jobs ports is to strengthen baseline infor- partnership with the Ministry of Plan- and entrepreneurship. These sectors mation on the demand and supply of ning in Iraq and KR-I, the Central Sta- include agriculture, construction, hospi- skills in the labour market in order to tistics Organization (CSO) and the Kur- tality, information and communications more efficiently and effectively inform distan Regional Statistics Office technology (ICT), manufacturing, all TVET stakeholders, including the (KRSO), launched an Assessment re- transport and storage, and wholesale private sector, in taking the appropri- port of the labor market and skills and retail trade; and cover the gover- ate next steps in reforming the TVET analysis covering seven economic sec- norates of Baghdad, Basrah, Diyala, system – which is vital to the growth of tors and the informal sector. This re- Erbil, Kirkuk, Najaf, Sulaymaniyah the country’s economy during such a port is based on a survey that was con- and Wasit. critical juncture.” ducted by CSO & KRSO in 2017 and It’s vital for the economy of Kurdistan The Assessment of the Labour Market covered 7 economic sectors in the pri- region of Iraq to assume reform in the & Skills Analysis is a component of the vate sector in addition with some focus applied laws and regulations that allow larger TVET Reform Project, funded by group discussions which have been a healthy growth in the private sector the European Union and in partnership implemented with relevant ministries through making the necessary changes with the government of Iraq and KR-I. and organizations. in vocational and technical learning The Project’s objectives are to improve The twin aims of the reports are, first- taking into consideration the needs of the overall TVET governance system ly, to inform education policy and prior- this sector in terms of skills and exper- with modern, demand-driven curricula ities at secondary and tertiary levels, tise, said Dr. Ali Sindi, Minister of along with improving the capacities of especially competency-based curricu- planning in KRG during the opening TVET stakeholders and the paths of lum development for Technical and speech of the launch event. TVET graduates into the labour mar- Vocational Education and Training The Senior project Officer for TVET ket. (TVET) and the development of train- Reform Project in Iraq Mr. Rory Rob- ing and opportunities for unskilled and/or unemployed people (with emphasis on women and youth) to enter the labour market and participate in formal and informal economic activity and, secondly, to build the capacity of stakeholders to survey businesses and analyze employer demand in order to determine the best use of funding and target relevant TVET provision to better meet the demand of the labor market. The seven economic sectors were determined in consultation with the project’s stakeholders and were based on growth Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 59

EU-funded programme “Supporting recovery and stability in Iraq through local development” Steering Committee translates policy into practical actions with ample cooperation of the federal and local authorities and the hard work of UNDP and UN-Habitat, an inclusive, transparent and cutting-edge approach to local development is going to place citizens in the driving seat of a new social agenda.” Under the new programme, UN- Habitat will contribute to the stability and socio-economic development of Iraq by improving living conditions and enhancing service delivery at the local level, through urban recovery invest- ments and job opportunities in conflict- affected areas, and revenue generation in five governorates. Head of UN- Habitat Iraq, a.i., Ms. Yuko Otsuki, stated that “immediate interventions will prioritize urban recovery activities, such as the rehabilitation of damaged Erbil, 17 April 2019 – The Steering Minister of Planning at the Kurdistan housing and schools, repairs to second- Committee of the programme Regional Government, Dr. Ali Sindi, ary infrastructure through job creation “Supporting recovery and stability in noted: “Our past joint efforts under the and skill enhancement, and involving Iraq through local development” held EU-funded LADP II produced the Pro- youth in the redesign and recovery of its first annual meeting in Erbil, on 17 vincial Development Plans and the public spaces.” April 2019. The programme is funded Sustainable Energy Action Plans. We A decision-making body, the Steering by the European Union (EU) with €47.5 are glad to be building upon this Committee is comprised of Iraq’s Minis- million over 4 years and implemented achievement, with the support of ter of Planning, Dr. Nouri Al Dulaimi, by the United Nations Development UNDP, to move to the next level of exe- Kurdistan Region’s Minister of Plan- Programme (UNDP) in partnership cuting sustainable energy, environmen- ning, Dr. Ali Sindi, as well as the Gov- with the UN Human Settlements Pro- tal action and climate change adapta- ernors of the aforementioned Gover- gramme (UN-Habitat). tion initiatives.” norates where the programme will be The Steering Committee endorsed the Head of the EU Delegation to the Re- active. Members also include UNDP programme’s workplan, identifying key public of Iraq, H.E. Ambassador Ramon and UN-Habitat as implementing part- priority projects to be implemented in Blecua, said: “The European Union ners, along with the EU Head of Dele- nine Governorates: Anbar, Basra, continues to show its commitment in gation and Delegation Cooperation Duhok, Erbil, Missan, Ninewah, Salah supporting local development in Iraq. Section as donor representatives. al-Din, Sulaimaniyah, and Thi Qar. The Steering Committee meeting held Governorate representatives signed the The projects derived from the Provin- today, was a great opportunity to agree Charter of Principles that sets out an cial Development Plans and the Sus- all together on concrete actions to be agreed upon framework between each tainable Energy Action Plans, devel- implemented at local level in the next Governorate, UNDP and UN-Habitat. oped under the flagship Local Area months. I am happy to see this new The framework defines roles and re- Development Programme (LADP II) programme in full implementation sponsibilities and will govern the im- that concluded in mid-2018. The pro- mode and look forward to its quick re- plementation of the programme. gramme revolves around supporting sults, so to deliver services and liveli- the decentralization of powers from hoods opportunities and make a differ- central to local authorities, including ence in daily life of the Iraqi popula- through the development of institution- tion.'' al capacities, the optimization of reve- Officer-in-Charge of UNDP Iraq, Mr. nue generation systems, peer-to-peer Vakhtang Svanidze, said: “Under this partnerships with EU local authorities, EU-funded programme, we will do our and the empowerment of civil society to utmost to help Iraqis in their pursuit of advocate for local development causes. effective local governance for improved Minister of Planning at the Federal living conditions to all, especially the Government of Iraq, Dr. Nouri Al most vulnerable. This is of paramount Dulaimi, said: “Today, we endorsed a importance to achieving the Sustaina- robust workplan addressing local prior- ble Development Goals in Iraq in the ities, such as decentralization, job crea- long run.” tion and public services, in areas where Head of UNDP Office in the Kurdistan needed most. With this endorsement, Region of Iraq (KR-I), Ms. Isabela we renew our commitment to work Uribe, reiterated: “I am more than glad closely with our strategic partners to- that we are going local with practical wards making sustainable, inclusive solutions touching people’ s daily life. local development a reality.” Thanks to the generosity of the EU, Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 60

Kurdistan Regional Government signs a Memorandum of Understanding with UNHCR Iraq to support the national social protection and promote the inclusion of refugees in Kurdistan Region of Iraq

Erbil, 17 April 2019 - The Ministry of MOU is to commit to continue uphold- vices to displaced populations and the Labour and Social Affairs (MoLSA) in ing the rights of refugees, internally communities hosting them, and is an Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) signed displaced persons (IDPs) and other important approach to support the KRI a Memorandum of Understanding persons of concern to UNHCR. so that they can continue to host IDPs (MoU) with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Mr. Gharaibeh said that “UNHCR and refugees. Support to refugee host- Agency, which aims at strengthen their hopes that the strengthened coopera- ing countries is a key element of the strategic partnership with a view to tion with MoLSA and the consolidation Global Compact on Refugees, a frame- include refugees into regional, munici- of existing services and support to gov- work for more predictable and equita- pal and urban services in the KRI. ernment institutions will benefit both ble responsibility-sharing, which was The MoU was signed on 16 April 2019 refugee and host communities, and affirmed by the UN General Assembly in Erbil by his Excellency Dr. Rekawt contribute to KRI’s development goals.” after two years of extensive negotia- Hamarasheed, Minister of Labour and Continued support from the interna- tions. Social Affairs in KRI, and Mr. Ayman tional community to enforce govern- KRI hosts the largest refugee communi- Gharaibeh, UNHCR representative in ment service institutions will enhance ty in Iraq, with 272,999 refugees hosted Iraq. their capacity to deliver quality ser- across the three governorates. During the signing ceremony, UNHCR and MoLSA committed to continued collaboration in upholding the rights of refugees, internally displaced persons and affected communities, including through improved access to services. The MoU builds on the existing operational partnership between UNHCR and MoLSA, and focuses on key areas of intervention, namely provision of social and protective services to children and youth, including in state-run centres, economic inclusion of refugees through access to vocational and self- reliance activities. It also includes preventing and responding to sexual and gender-based violence. The aim of the

Business skills training held in Dohuk

Dohuk, 17 April 2019 - IDPs, Syrian neighbors and community members, I ing-up a vegetable shop of my own. I’ve refugees and host community members will receive more customers.” learnt how to develop a business plan living in Misureek, Duhok, participated “When I was at college, I used to work and had the opportunity to brainstorm in business skills training hosted by at a vegetable shop. This training will different ideas on how to start-up busi- GOAL, with support from UNDP Iraq. allow me to pursue my dream of start- nesses with other participants.” Rama- After completion, each individual – along with a further 197 – will receive asset recovery support, purchasing the necessary equipment and supplies to start or recover their own businesses. Aminah (left) lives with her three sisters and parents in a rental home. Un- fortunately, both her parents and sib- lings are unable to work. “My family used to run a cow breeding business in Zumar. But during the ISIL crisis, we lost our business, our source of income and had to flee. Today, no one is earning an income for the family, so I will start cow breeding here in Duhok. I’ve learnt about planning and also, how to attract customers – I will sell a high quality of dairy product, like yo- gurts, and through networking and word-of-mouth recommendations from Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 61

DSRSG Ruedas: “I strongly believe in the need for private sector development and the need for creation of sufficient jobs through the private sector.”

Erbil, 22 April 2019 - The Erbil sustainable development, without deal- merce & industry, made possible with Chamber of Commerce & Industry wel- ing with the development of the private generous funding from the Government comed the Deputy Special Representa- sector across the entire country.” of Japan. tive of the United Nations Assistance This project is part of an on-going part- Photo courtesy of the Erbil Chamber of Mission for Iraq, Marta Ruedas to open nership with the Erbil Chamber of com- commerce and industry a recent forum titled, “Private Sector Development: All Towards Diversifica- tion of Local Economy” – the second in a series sponsored by UNDP Iraq, aimed at creating an action plan that will enable improved engagement of private sector in sustainable economic growth for the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. “I strongly believe in the need for private sector development and the need for creation of sufficient jobs through the private sector. It’s a fundamental necessity across the country. I don’t see a way to move forward successfully in

Strengthening the institutional framework and SDGs localization at local levels

shop brought representatives from 3 and non-government actors. Thus, al- governorates and KRG facing different lowing to foster policy coherence be- development challenges as well as rep- tween national and local development resentatives from the Ministry of Plan- planning and SDG implementation, ning, National VNR Team, National including country examples on the SDG SDG 16 Team, Central Statistical Bu- reporting structures between the lo- reau, and experts from UNDP Regional cal/national authorities and lessons Hub Office. learned. The two-day workshop (February 12- Governates representatives of 13th, 2019) was organized in Erbil and (Sustainable Development Unit - MOP, was engaged by 27 professional repre- CSB, National SDG 16 Team, and Na- sentatives from the pilot governates tional VNR Team) have presented their and MOP on a better understanding of institutional framework for SDGs local- SDGs localization in general with a ization and implementation in term of significant focus on SDG 16 (effective linkages with local development plans institutional and coordination mecha- and targets, effective engagement of Erbil, 23 April 2019 - SDG Localiza- nism) – based on their contextualiza- society and vulnerable groups, progress tion is a crucial process in accelerating tion in the context of Iraq along with to date and lessons learned, and ac- the implementation of the SDGs in a relevant experiences within the region countability mechanisms and reporting way that “leaves no one behind” in Iraq. and beyond. The event helped gover- processes for SDG implementation at It implies all stakeholders and institu- norates representatives assess their local levels. Some challenges are high- tions - government at the sub-national state of play in SDG localization and lighted, such as how to create integra- levels as well as non-state actors such discuss the formulation of an effective tion between existing initiatives and as civil societies, academia, and mar- institutional framework and enabling new initiatives, usefulness/validity of ginalized groups - have the fundamen- an environment for a more inclusive the indicators, and stakeholder engage- tal role to play in the formulation, im- society. During the Workshop, experts ment to achieve collective vision, incor- plementation, and monitoring of the from the Regional Hub in Amman (Ms. poration of the private sector, formula- SDGs at their respective levels. Tomoko Vazeer) and from Algeria tion of effective urban plans, and com- UNDP organized a workshop to support Country Office (Mr. Sebastien Vau- munity level initiative to address cli- three governates and KRG (Basra, Kar- zelle) have familiarized participants mate change, such as recycling of bala, Anbar, and KRG) on agenda 2030 with key dimensions and lessons waste. targets localization according to the learned from SDGs localization in the The National VNR Team Member (Dr. social needs and priorities. This step region; drawing upon UNDG corporate Hasan Alzobadee) has given deep in- comes after the Government of Iraq has tools and guidance and pilot interna- sight on the reporting mechanism and taken advanced steps towards the im- tional experiences. In addition to that, guidance at sub-national levels with a plementation of the SDGs targets in institutional and vertical and horizon- significant highlight on including a Iraq through it's National Development tal coordination mechanism were dis- particular section in the Iraq VNR re- Plan (NDP 2018-2022) goals. The work- cussed at different levels of government port - 2019 about SDGs localization at Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 62

Strengthening the institutional framework … (continued) sub-national levels. Detailed SDGs localization and implementation of Office effort and support, the UNDP reporting guidance at the local level SDG 16+, and preparation for drafting country office representative (Sundus was presented as the pilot governates local level SDG report, the participants Abass, SDG Project Manager) has ex- will prepare their local SDGs reports in were able to share their experiences pressed the country office plans to sup- next. An expert from UNDP-Algeria and challenges toward SDGs ownership port the subnational governates to- office has shared Algeria experiences in and localization. Data gap remains a wards the strengthen the concept and both SDG localization and SDG 16. major challenge at both the national principles of SDGs localization and During the workshop, key elements and local levels, and coordination with effective institutional coordination that can help and/or hinder the SDGs the Statistics office as well as innova- mechanism toward implementing localization at a local level have been tive ways of collecting data need to be Agenda 2030 in Iraq with a significant discussed through four working groups pursued, together with an assessment focus on leaving no one behind princi- where MoP representatives facilitated of the available data. ples. all of the working groups. Despite the After the governmental representatives By Sundus Abbas, SDGs project man- difference in the state of play in SDGs have appreciated the UNDP Country ager, UNDP Iraq

UNDP recently discovered hundreds of books untouched by ISIL at Mosul University's main library

Mosul, 23 April 2019 - "UNDP recent- space for students while the main li- United Nations Development Pro- ly discovered hundreds of books un- brary is being rehabilitated by the gramme (UNDP)". touched by ISIL at Mosul University's main library. The books are being transferred to a temporary learning space for students while the main library is being rehabilitated by the United Nations Development Pro- gramme (UNDP)". Mosul, 23 April 2019 - "UNDP recently discovered hundreds of books untouched by ISIL at Mosul University's main library. The books are being transferred to a temporary learning

UNDP organized in Baghdad a workshop on institutional performance management and audit-related issues

Baghdad, 25 April 2019 - To enhance ceived practical exercise and peer to the Public Institution of the govern- peer exchange knowledge on the public ment of Iraq, the United Nations Devel- sector performance assessment. opment Programme organized a work- This workshop is part of a joint pro- shop on institutional performance man- gramme between UNDP – IPSM Pro- agement and audit-related issues. gramme and the Council of Ministers Twenty-five senior staff from the Minis- Secretariat (CoMSEC) to provide a se- try of Planning, Ministry of Communi- ries of seminars on the Institutional cations, Ministry of Electricity, and the Performance Management targeting 24 Ministry of Trade participated and re- Iraqi Ministries.

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Iraq recently reached a major milestone

Baghdad, 27 April 2019 - The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) recently reached a major milestone – with over 2,000 stabilization projects now completed in Iraq since mid-2015, UNDP work has impacted the lives of Iraqis. All this work was done with the aim of supporting people displaced by the conflict to move back home. To date, 4.2 million people have returned, with another 1.7 million still displaced. Volume 6, Issue 2 Stabilization and Development Page 63

UN-Habitat and UNDP upscale support on housing rehabilitation and secure tenure for the returnees in Sinjar

Sinjar, 25 April 2019 – Today, United Nations Human Settlements Pro- gramme (UN-Habitat) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) handed over 502 rehabilitated houses and Occupancy Certificates to returnees in Sinjar District, Ninewa Governorate. Extensively damaged during the ISIL occupation, these houses were rehabilitated as part of a larger project funded by the Government of Germany through UNDP’s Iraq Crisis Response and Resilience Programme (ICRRP). A total of 1,064 houses were rehabilitated in Sinjar over a two-year period, with 1,501 Occupancy Certifi- cates distributed to Yazidi returnees. In the Sinjar area, Yazidis are an ethnic and religious minority group who, In recognition of the targeted persecu- time, ‘Recognising the housing and for decades, have been subjected to tion of Yazidi people during the ISIL occupancy rights for the Yazidi’s for the discriminatory policies that have de- occupation, Mr. Mohammed Al Tamimi, first time in modern history, is a nied their housing, land and property Director General, NGOs Directorate of groundbreaking achievement and a rights. Compounding this marginaliza- the General Secretariat of the Council necessary tool for prompting more re- tion, these groups were particularly of Ministers, thanked partners for their turns to the area.’ targeted for persecution and violence by support in helping to rebuild this com- Embassy of Germany in Baghdad stat- ISIL. Through this project, damaged munity, stating ‘On behalf of the people ed that: “Germany continues to support houses were rehabilitated and the need of Sinjar, I thank UN-Habitat and the the Iraqi government in its stabiliza- to restore residents with their rights for Government of Germany, through tion efforts in the liberated areas. tenure security were addressed, which UNDP, for rehabilitating the homes of Housing rehabilitation, like this UN- are essential to facilitate the dignified Yazidi families.’ Mr. Dawood Jundi, Habitat project, is one important ele- and sustainable return of IDPs and Ninewa Provincial Council Member for ment. Other conditions for a safe and peaceful reconstruction of the Sinjar Sinjar and representative for the Yazidi dignified return of IDPs include securi- area. Yazidi returnees who had previ- Community, added that ‘this project ty, sound administration and liveli- ously not been awarded official docu- enables Yazidi people who had been hoods.” mentation for their residence, received forced to flee during the conflict, to feel Mr. Zubair Murshed, Programme Man- Occupancy Certificates to verify occu- reconnected with their land.’ ager a.i., ICRRP, UNDP Iraq reiterates pancy rights of their homes. Mr. Ali Omer, Deputy Governor of this sentiment, ‘The destruction of com- The project was technically supported Ninewa, stated that the community in munities – and specifically housing – is by the Global Land Tools Network Sinjar has suffered severely for decades a major obstacle for IDPs when decid- (GLTN), adopting a community-based and were never granted ownership of ing whether or not they can or should approach that directly engaged return- their houses and lands. He reiterated return to their former villages and cit- ees and community members in the his gratitude to all partners who sup- ies. This partnership with UN-Habitat rehabilitation activities and verification ported the Yazidi community and peo- has not only seen the rehabilitation of of occupancy. 684 members of the ple in Sinjar. houses but has also helped to rebuild a Yazidi community (44% women) were Ms. Yuko Otsuki, Head of UN-Habitat sense of community by enabling the employed under the project, encourag- Iraq, a.i. also highlighted the im- safe return of over 13,302 Yazidis, and ing the social and economic empower- portance of awarding residents with engaging hundreds more in the rehabil- ment of conflict affected communities. Occupancy Certificates for the first itation process itself.’ Volume 6, Issue 2 Security Sector Reform Page 64

Denmark provides an additional $4 million to Security Sector Reform in Iraq

Baghdad, 4 March 2019 – The Gov- stability, security and recovery". ernment of Denmark will contribute an While visiting a mid-level management lion Danish Kroner which comes in additional 27 million Danish Kroner training course at the Ministry of Inte- addition to the in- kind support of the (approx. USD 4 million) to advance rior, the Danish Ambassador expressed Danish police advisor and, expert train- Security and Justice Sector Reform in hope that the trained Iraqi Police Offic- ers". "Improving key public security Iraq in the coming years. This support ers will provide a safer and more secure services such as policing and justice will be managed and facilitated by day-to-day environment for the people services in the liberated and, other United Nations Development Pro- of Iraq. "The strengthening of local areas will be a key determiner to Iraq's gramme (UNDP). police is important in the transition transition to stability and, maintain UNDP Security Sector Reform/ Rule of from 'green to blue' security”. added safe returns" added Mr. Svanidze. Law Programme provides advice and Ambassador Meinecke. UNDP is very grateful to the Govern- assistance to Government of Iraq's Se- Mr. Vakhtang Svanidze, Officer in ment of Denmark's committed and gen- curity Sector Reform Programme Charge of UNDP Iraq said “I would like erous contributions to UNDP Security through partnerships with the Office of to thank the Government of Denmark Sector Reform/ Rule of Law Programme the National Security Advisor, Ministry for its generous contribution of 27 Mil- in Iraq. of Interior, Higher Judicial Council, Ministry of Justice, Parliamentary Se- curity and Defense Committee, Iraqi civil society organizations and, other international donors. The Danish grant will, among others, be used to support implementation of the Local Police Road Map, for development of quick impact projects to improve police - public partnerships, and for mid-level management and, related specialized trainings to Iraqi police officers in close collaboration between Danish National Police, UNDP and the Ministry of Interior. Denmark has supported Iraq's security and justice sector reform efforts since 2015. Danish Ambassador Gert Meinecke said "Denmark maintains its commitment to supporting Iraq's transition to Iraq: Empowering Women criminal justice officials in the national counter terrorism response

Erbil, 7 March 2019 - After ISIL's ment, judiciary institutions, United en's inclusion, such as the National military defeat at the hands of the Iraqi Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq Action Plan developed by Iraq on the army in 2017, terrorism and violent (UNAMI), UN Women, civil society, United Nations Security Council extremism continue to pose challenges non-governmental organizations, and (UNSC) Resolution 1325, on women, to the country. While undertaking ef- the Women Empowerment Organiza- peace, and security. forts to deal with the aftermath of ter- tion to gather the views of all sectors The meeting led to multiple rich discus- rorist attacks, bringing perpetrators to involved in the planned programme. sions and encouraged stakeholders to justice, and providing support to vic- For the past 5 years, UNODC has been identify some probable barriers to wom- tims and survivors, it has been widely implementing various counter terror- en accessing decision making posts and acknowledged in the country that it is ism projects in Iraq in collaboration obtaining budgets for the women and important to empower women in the with governmental bodies, nongovern- peace agenda. Stakeholders further ongoing peacebuilding process and the mental entities, members of parlia- stressed to the necessity of including criminal justice response to terrorism ment, prosecutors and judges, amongst female perspectives and points of view offences. many others. Throughout conducting a while conducting studies on women. On 7 March 2019, UNODC ROMENA wide number of activities, UNODC Many participants clarified that women organised a large stakeholders' meeting data has shown that most of the delega- have long played roles in peace and to launch a new programme on ' tions had been male, leading to the security as activists, peacekeepers, and Strengthening the Capacity of Women proposal of the programme. Therefore, fighters. Nadia Murad, Nobel Prize Professionals Working in the Counter- efforts build upon past calls for further winner and UNODC Goodwill Ambas- Terrorism Sector," in Erbil. The meet- empowerment of women's indispensa- sador for the Dignity of Survivors of ing brought together around 40 repre- ble role in counter terrorism efforts. Human Trafficking, was a key example sentatives from Kurdistan Regional The meeting's attendees appreciated for empowered women. Government (KRG), Ministries of the proposals and initiatives put for- Prison reform, drug use prevention, Health, Labor and Social Affairs, Inte- ward by UNODC and highlighted the youth involvement, and mental health rior, Justice, and Education, parlia- past related efforts done towards wom- awareness were also among the issues Volume 6, Issue 2 Security Sector Reform Page 65

Iraq: Empowering Women criminal justice officials in the national counter terrorism response (continued) highlighted, requiring dedicated attention and support. The expected outcomes of the programme are empowered female officials with an enhanced knowledge and capacity in international cooperation on terrorism-related matters, support to women professionals working within the Iraqi criminal justice system and law enforcement in acquiring the knowledge and skills needed to cope with emerging terrorism challenges. The expected results would demon- strate a stronger capacity of women policy makers through trainings and awareness campaigns on the most im- universal legal framework against ter- these conventions, protocols and resolu- minent challenges posed by terrorism rorism developed by the international tions is informed by the guidance pro- that threaten peace. community. This framework is com- vided by the UN Global Counter- The programme responds to the prised of the 19 universal legal instru- Terrorism Strategy along with United UNODC/UNOV Strategy for Gender ments against terrorism along with the Nations General Assembly Resolutions. Equality and the Empowerment of relevant United Nations Security Coun- The programme is funded by the Unit- Women and is directed by the common cil Resolutions. The implementation of ed Kingdom. Iraqi Ministry of Interior adopted SOP for Criminal Investigations

Baghdad, 21 March 2019 – On 18 Intelligence Agency (FIIA) and the SOP drafting process. March 2019, the Senior Deputy Minis- Criminal Forensic Directorate to coop- UNDP-Iraq reaffirmed its commitment ter of the Interior, Dr Aqeel Al- erate while respective police investiga- to the members of the ministerial crim- Khazaali, endorsed the Standard Oper- tors shall take up lead responsibilities. inal justice committee and the interdis- ating Procedure (SOP) on Criminal As the Senior Deputy Minister of the ciplinary working group to continue its Investigations. These internal regula- Interior Dr Aqeel Al-Khazaali writes in support to make the implementation of tions for criminal investigations are the foreword of the SOP: “Being com- the SOP a potent instrument to fight meant to make crime management mitted to follow this SOP will enhance crimes. Since many police directorates more reliable and efficient. The adop- our national security status both direct- and departments will be directly affect- tion of the SOP on Criminal Investiga- ly and indirectly by countering all types ed by changes in the investigative pro- tion aligns with the implementation of of crime. Such a response from the po- cess, operation plans must be adapted, the Local Police Service Road Map also lice will also be well noted by the pub- equipment reviewed and added, and recently adopted by the Ministry. lic. The Ministry of the Interior highly training be conducted for lead investi- The SOP had been prepared for over a recognises the importance of public gators, operation room duty officers, year by an internal ministerial criminal trust in police conduct which entails major incident managers, first respond- justice committee and an interdiscipli- the cooperation of citizens by providing ers and others. Many other internation- nary working group consistent of interi- information to solve crimes.” al partners have expressed an interest or ministry officials, representatives of The head of the criminal justice com- in this area of work. the Higher Judicial Council, the Minis- mittee of the MoI, Major General Ziad UNDP is grateful to Germany and Den- try of Justice, the Office of the National Taha Ali Al-Abbasi added that “with mark for their generous funding to car- Security Advisor and with technical the introduction of the SOP the police ry out this important work in Iraq. assistance from the security sector pro- assume a key role in the investigative gramme of UNDP. The SOP allows a process which puts the police in the unified criminal justice approach in position to implement warrants and Iraq and is meant to become the gov- directives from investigating judges erning practice to conduct criminal based on agreed standards of practice.” investigations in an effective and proac- “To become truly effective, the SOP will tive manner. Its purpose is to raise the require general acceptance and the performance of the police in investiga- increased capacity of police depart- tions and make their professional ac- ments that play key roles in criminal tions in criminal investigations more investigations. All major departments accountable to investigating judges; involved in investigations must raise also to make the evidence produced their level of skills and be ready to during their investigations more likely streamline practices to be able to meet to be credible in further judicial pro- the requirements of the SOP,” stated ceedings. The SOP requires various Andreas Kirsch-Wood, Senior Criminal departments of the Ministry of the In- Justice Advisor of UNDP who partici- terior, in particular the Patrol Police, pated in the expert group meetings and local police stations, the Anti-Crime advised the Interior Ministry, the judi- Section, the Federal Investigation and ciary and other stakeholders during the Volume 6, Issue 2 Security Sector Reform Page 66

Germany provides an additional USD 1.14 million to advance criminal investigations and local police service in Iraq Baghdad, 21 April 2019 – The Gov- is grateful to Germany for its generous Iraqi authorities with the aim of im- ernment of Germany will contribute an funding to carry out this important proving public security services for the additional USD 1.14 million to advance work in Iraq. Iraqi people”. criminal investigations and local polic- The German Federal Foreign Ministry Officer in Charge of UNDP Iraq Mr. ing, that are identified key priorities grant will, among others, be used to Vakhtang Svanidze said: “I would like within the Government of Iraqi's on- support implementation of the Stand- to thank the Government of Germany going Security Sector Reform Pro- ard Operating Procedures for Criminal for its generous contribution and, we gramme. This support will be managed Investigations and Local Police Service are grateful to Germany for its continu- and facilitated by United Nations De- Road Map and, support civil society ing commitment to improve security velopment Programme (UNDP). organizations to improve police - public and justice services in post- ISIL Iraq". UNDP Security Sector Reform/ Rule of partnerships at local level. Germany "Improving key public security services Law Programme provides advice and has supported Iraq's security and jus- such as policing and justice service technical assistance to Government of tice sector reform efforts since 2017. provision in the liberated and other Iraq's Security Sector Reform Pro- German Ambassador Dr. Cyrill Jean areas is a pre- requisite for Iraq's tran- gramme through partnerships with the Nunn said: "Security Sector Reform is sition to stability and, maintain safe Office of the National Security Advisor, one of the key pillars in Germany’s returns" added Mr. Svanidze. Ministry of Interior, Higher Judicial support to Iraq. In that context, capaci- UNDP is very grateful to the Govern- Council, Ministry of Justice, Parlia- ties for professional criminal investiga- ment of Germany for its committed and mentary Security and Defense Commit- tions and local policing are of high im- generous contributions to Security Sec- tee, Iraqi civil society organizations portance. We appreciate the close col- tor Reform/ Rule of Law Programme in and, other international donors. UNDP laboration of UNDP with all relevant Iraq. IOM leverages Community Policing to address trafficking in persons

Erbil, 28 April 2019 – In the after- 2015, IOM recognizes the benefits of a Iraq. “The training helped us to learn math of the ISIL crisis, the Govern- community engagement in identifying new methods of investigation, as we ment of Iraq is dealing with a myriad of and preventing crimes and addressing currently have a lot of cases related to post-conflict challenges to rebuild the security concerns, including human foreign migrant workers that need the- country, including creating economic trafficking. se methods to be applied to rescue the opportunities, delivering social ser- IOM has supported the Government of victims of trafficking and bring the vices, mending the social fabric in com- Iraq, including the Kurdistan Regional perpetrators to justice.” munities, and ensuring laws are en- Government, to establish Community “Iraq poses a complex TiP problem as forced for the safety and security for all Policing Forums (CPF), which are in- trafficking happens before and during the country’s inhabitants, just to name clusive groups of diverse community crisis situations and across the bor- a few. members and community police officers ders,” explained Placido Silipigni, head Conditions of conflict are fertile where security-related concerns, in- of IOM Iraq’s Migration Management grounds for crimes related to traffick- cluding TiP, are discussed in a safe Unit. “We are pleased to see that the ing in persons (TiP), including sexual environment. community policing approach is effec- exploitation and forced labor, the en- IOM has launched a set of trainings tive in bringing these crimes to the slavement of women and girls by mem- and seminars for 60 Iraqi investigative surface to ensure law enforcement and bers of armed groups and the use of judges and law enforcement officers in actors in the judiciary work collabora- trafficked children as soldiers and Erbil and Baghdad to train them on tively to respond to, and mitigate, these street beggars. mainstreaming community policing crimes.” IOM Iraq was instrumental in support- principles into the investigation of TiP Following the trainings, IOM will sup- ing the Government of Iraq with the cases. port a series of information-sharing development of the national counter- The training in Erbil last week was sessions across the country that will trafficking law in 2012. Now that the attended by senior level community include an investigative judge and a conflict has subsided, it is critical that policing officers, police investigators, police officer, alongside an IOM repre- State structures are empowered to take investigative judges and prosecutors, sentative, who will speak to 100 district on this growing transnational crime. including the head of the Counter Traf- police officers and investigative judges An innovative approach that IOM re- ficking Directorate and the head of about TiP in Iraq and investigative cently introduced is mainstreaming of Directorate for Combating Violence approaches based on community polic- the community policing approach to Against Women in Kurdistan Region of ing principles. investigate cases of TiP. Iraq. To promote collaboration on coun- IOM’s community policing programme ter-trafficking across borders, an IOM aims to contribute to enhanced security regional law enforcement expert on TiP and stability in Iraq by facilitating dia- was invited to share best practices from logue between communities and law across the Middle East and North Afri- enforcement actors through Communi- ca region. ty Policing Forums (CPF) in communi- “Our directorate was newly established ties affected by conflict and displace- in 2018, and this training was really ment. The programme is funded by the essential, especially for our new col- German Federal Foreign Office. leagues,” said Lieutenant Colonel Dara With the experience of strengthening Farouq, head of Counter Trafficking community policing across Iraq since Directorate in the Kurdistan Region of Volume 6, Issue 2 Security Sector Reform Page 67 Community policing forums build trust between communities and police, and contribute to community stabilization

Mosul, 10 March 2019 – IOM was happy to host a delegation from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Federal Foreign Office (AA) and Al-Khadraa Community Policing Forum members in Mosul to showcase them how German-funded and IOM- supported community policing forums build trust between communities and police, and contribute to community stabilization.

Police station rehabilitated in Mosul

Mosul, 16 April 2019 - Abi Tamam police station in Mosul was destroyed by ISIL. Today, it's up-and-running, servicing four neighborhoods in the city thanks to rehabilitation efforts by Unit- ed Nations Development Programme - UNDP with support from Germany.

Strategic Centre for Community Policing opened in central Baghdad

Baghdad, 27 April 2019 - To increase support to the Government of Iraq in the field of Community Policing, IOM - UN Migration Agency has recently opened a Strategic Centre for Commu- nity Policing in central Baghdad. IOM is currently training Community Police Officers who will staff the Strategic Centre and roll out trainings for fellow police officials on the Community Police approach, including setting up and monitoring Community Police Forums. As part of the establishment of the Strategic Centre, IOM also rehabilitated and furnished office space within the Community Policing Directorate in Baghdad. Volume 6, Issue 2 Mine Action Page 68

Al Shifa Hospital complex in West Mosul - one of the biggest clearance tasks UNMAS has undertaken in Iraq

Mosul, 03 March 2019 - UNMAS, UNMAS would like to take the oppor- towards creating a safe environment together with the United Nations De- tunity to thank the Federal Republic of and enabling stabilization and humani- velopment Programme - UNDP, recent- Germany for its continuous support tarian initiatives in Iraq. ly hosted a German delegation from the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooper- ation and Development (BMZ) and the Federal Foreign Office (AA) at the Al Shifa Hospital Complex in West Mosul. The hospital complex was known to be the second largest hospital in Iraq and reportedly one of Da’esh headquarters during their occupation. This site is also considered as one of the biggest clearance tasks UNMAS has undertaken in Iraq. The delegation received an extensive briefing on current activities at the oncologic building and was able to see mechanical assets and search and clearance teams at work. This was followed by an update on rehabilitation works from UNDP representatives.

UNMAS breaks gender barriers in Iraq

Baghdad, 8 March 2019 — On this fied female candidates to hardship duty might conflict with undertaking normal International Women’s Day and for the stations, particularly in areas where tasks, such as how and which teams first time in its history, the United Na- women’s rights and freedoms are lim- conduct searches of buildings. In Iraq, tions (UN) has achieved gender parity ited, remains a struggle for UNMAS UNMAS recently introduced a ‘mixed among its senior leadership. Of 44 UN and other UN agencies alike. team’ concept, pairing women and men senior leadership roles, women hold 23 Similarly, conservative traditional val- to work side by side, ensuring that of these positions. Secretary-General ues can influence local women’s deci- team composition takes into considera- António Guterres has made it an inte- sions who hesitate to push the limits tion social norms while also empower- gral part of his mission to reach parity based on prevailing cultural and social ing women in new roles. at all levels. This has proven to be par- norms, and thereby limit their pro- ticularly challenging, however, in field spects for job placement and advance- By the numbers projects and operations such as in the ment. UNMAS conducted surveys of 12 Iraq- mine action sector. Solving for this problem takes a two- based mine action organizations in While the United Nations Mine Action prong strategy. August 2017 and August 2018 and Service (UNMAS) programme in Iraq First, to achieve parity, women, men, found that, although the numbers of can report gains, according to an infor- boys and girls should have equal oppor- staff changed, the relative percentages mal UNMAS poll of mine action organi- tunities throughout their lives, begin- of men versus women remained about zations in Iraq, total posts held by ning at an early age and through ma- the same: women decreased from 16 percent in turity. August 2017: 2017, to 12 percent in 2018. UNMAS Second, women should be afforded the Total staff members: 1,639 percentages are higher but still fall same job opportunities as men. To en- 1,371 Male staff vs 268 Female staff short of parity. sure this, UNMAS in Iraq considers not August 2018: The talent pool for candidates with only promotion of these opportunities, Total staff members: 1,189 qualifications for explosive hazard but evaluates job requirements and 1,006 Male staff vs 183 Female staff clearance and management has largely procedures from a woman’s perspective been filled with those with prior mili- so as to identify and address any cul- The Reasons Why tary experience, meaning it has been tural, practical, and social concerns "An inclusive and gender-balanced predominately male. In time, UNMAS which otherwise deter women from workforce increases the efficiency and envisions its specialized trainings will applying for a job. effectiveness of mine action activities help address this shortfall in the Iraq For example, although many women and benefits the community as a whole context. would not be dissuaded from explosive by ensuring a more coherent response Even for programme-related positions, hazard clearance despite its dangers, if to the different needs and priorities of UNMAS finds it difficult to attract fe- body armour provided is only designed women, girls, boys and men affected by male applicants. A recent vacancy for a for men, even highly qualified women contamination. A gender-balanced Senior Programme Officer is such a would have trouble performing re- workforce also supports an agenda of case: of the 263 applicants, only 22 quired tasks. equal rights, and programmes with were female. Attracting highly quali- On the job, cultural and social norms more balanced staff composition report Volume 6, Issue 2 Mine Action Page 69

UNMAS breaks gender barriers in Iraq a better team atmosphere, improved ty and my country, and I aspire to keep satisfaction at work, and improved dis- on working in this field until the last Dorra, a Tunisian national and former cipline." explosive hazard has been removed translator with UNMAS Iraq. from Iraq.” “When I was offered the possibility to Women in Mineaction Iraq join the UNMAS Iraq team, I seized the opportunity to make a change, an opportunity that is not necessarily possible for all women from the region. In the field, I have witnessed the challenges faced by aid workers, IDPs, and officials trying to overcome the crisis caused by the latest conflict, and I am happy to be part of the solution.” “During my spare time, I volunteer through an online app to help refugees As a Community Liaison Officer with and IDPs get access to free translation Shahad, a Community Liaison Officer the Health and Social Care Organiza- services that allow them to have access working in Mosul with one of UNMAS tion (IHSCO) in Fallujah, Noor has to aid workers, attorneys, and doctors. implementing partners for over a year, come to know families who have lost The conversations I am part of as a imagines a city restored even as the loved ones to explosive hazards. Their volunteer-interpreter are painful, but I information she collects guides clear- stories, in turn, have helped her to deal am happy I can take some of the frus- ance teams and helps determine priori- with questions she expected in her con- tration away through language.” tization of missions to be undertaken. servative community. “What is of value to me as a woman “When I first started working, my fami- and a Community Liaison Officer is ly was slightly worried about the na- that one day, in the future, I will look ture of my job, but that all changed at the city and say I was part of this, of once I started sharing with them de- a survival journey for this city”. tails about the pain and suffering of our Shahad also participated in the 17th city. Meeting of the State Parties, Anti- “Considering that I am a woman living Personnel Mine Ban Convention rein a conservative community, I initially cently in Geneva, Switzerland, where experienced some difficulties and criti- she represented UNMAS in Iraq and cisms from people. I was able to sur- spoke on the subject of “Women and pass those hurdles because I am ex- Youth in Mine Action: Building Strong- tremely passionate about humanitarian er Communities”. work.” “I want to involve and encourage more *** women to take part in the rehabilita- Working toward a ‘safe home’ As one of the select group of women tion of Mosul; and the first step must who work in mine action, Noor has be the clearance of the thousands of Most of the liberated area in Iraq – spent her years at UNMAS cultivating items of explosive hazards.” approximately one-third of the country a relentless professional portfolio that – remains a ‘danger zone’ for returnees has impressed management, national and IDPs alike for reason of contamina- authorities and colleagues alike. tion by explosive hazards. A walk home Noor initially joined UNMAS as an from school can be life-threatening. Administration Assistant with the Sup- The importance of the timely clearance port Services team, quickly moving up of these hazards cannot be overstated, the ranks in a short amount of time. serving as a critical first step toward a She embodies the fierce drive of a wom- normal life and the return to a safe an determined to succeed in spite of the home for all. The UNMAS staff in Iraq numerous challenges, even as she is have their own reasons for doing what enrooted in a male-dominated work they do, but ultimately their individual environment. Currently, Noor is the good reasons add up to a single right Associate Operations Officer working Shaimaa Abdullah Ahmed works reason: an opportunity to contribute, to with UNMAS in Iraq for over three with the Danish Demining Group make a difference, to know no limits. years, assisting the Head of Projects in (DDG), an UNMAS implementing part- coordinating operational activities. ner in Iraq, providing risk education for “Even as a child, I vehemently rejected Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) at societal expectations that some things Al Salamiya Camp near Mosul. She were meant for boys and others for envisions a bright future for the women girls. Now, as I work in the operations and children in her community, and division of UNMAS, I am conscious of hopes to represent her city in advocat- how very few women, especially local ing for their rights. nationals, work alongside me, and have “I insisted on working in the field of made it my mission to advocate for risk education for IDPs because I want- equal opportunities, and equal repre- ed to make a difference to my communi- sentation, in my line of work.” Volume 6, Issue 2 Mine Action Page 70

UNMAS breaks gender barriers in Iraq

other men to support women: my boss who is standing next to me in this pho- insights that can highlight the experi- to. He has empowered me, challenged ences and particular needs of half the me and provided me opportunities like population. When women aren’t part of no other before him, which is crucial to the conversation and the decision- create positive space for women at the making, we must recognize that we are table. “ failing.” “The same holds true for field programmes. At UNMAS Iraq, we are ensuring that gender is mainstreamed within all our programming, from risk education to explosive hazard manage- Giorgia, former Gender Expert, UN- ment, and that the recruitment for all MAS Iraq our posts is done in a gender-responsive “Without peace, no country and society manner. We know that it is step by can progress, certainly not while ne- step. Nevertheless, the data is on our glecting ‘half of the population’. One of side: including women is not only the the Iraqi women I came across during right thing to do, it is the smart thing my work, Zahra, once said something to do for our effective operations and for that continues to echo in my mind: Lyuba, Associate Programme Officer, sustainable peace and security within a ‘Imagine Iraq as a beautiful bird in UNMAS country.” which men are one wing and women “Ever since I found out how easy it is to are the other. The bird can only fly create a booby trap and purposefully forward if the wings flap together. But inflict harm on a human being in such one wing is tied down. Is it really any a cruel way, I’ve wanted to work in wonder the bird is going around in cir- mine action. When I tried on a bomb cles, becoming exhausted and hitting suit recently, my respect for explosive the wall?’" hazard clearance operators reached a new level… there is such a fine balance between personal safety and confidence in the skills necessary for successful operations.”

Pehr, Senior Programme Manager, UNMAS Iraq “Ensuring diversity and the inclusion of the different needs of women, men, boys and girls is key to UNMAS success, whether within its senior leadership, programme staff, or in field-based Lindsay, former Head of Programme operations. For us, this isn’t something Office, UNMAS Iraq we only think about or talk about on “The civilian women who are brave International Women’s Day. It’s every enough, and have fought hard enough, day.” to secure a place in managing peace Clara, Senior Gender Advisor, UNMAS UNMAS in Iraq would like to thank the operations deserve the utmost respect. Iraq Governments of Australia, the Czech “Every day I think about how I can be a “Globally, we are facing a crisis. Wom- Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, role model for junior staff and also in- en’s representation and active partici- the European Union, Finland, Germa- spire women to push for their chance to pation in the peace and security sector ny, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, New be a catalyst for change, and to find is decreasing – and those numbers were Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Republic of their seat at the management table in not high to begin with. When we leave Korea, Sweden and the United King- the United Nations. women out of peace negotiations, out of dom for offering equal opportunities to “There are many obstacles in this jour- peacebuilding and out of the security women and men as well as supporting ney, and I am very lucky to have a male and governance decisions of a nation, gender mainstreaming initiatives in champion, who is also a role model for we lose their practical and strategic mine action. Volume 6, Issue 2 Mine Action Page 71

UNMAS Senior Manager at the American University of Kurdistan gave a lecture on “Explosive Hazard Management in Iraq – Challenges and Opportunities”

Duhok, 12 March 2019 - Senior Man- ager of United Nations Mine Action Service- Iraq (UNMAS) Mr. Pehr Lo- dhammar, visited the American Uni- versity of Kurdistan where he gave a lecture on “Explosive Hazard Manage- ment in Iraq – Challenges and Oppor- tunities” at AUK’s auditorium. Attended by the students and in the presence of AUK Provost Dr. Nazar Numan and AUK’s Director of Center for Peace and Human Security (CPHS) Dr. Paul Philippe, Mr. Lodhammar’s lecture highlighted the Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) campaign in Iraq and the critical role it plays in stabiliz- UNMAS, he had held senior leadership Peace and Human Security. ing the country. Mr. Lodhammar pre- positions at various international or- Established in 1997, the United Na- sented case studies including explosive ganizations; including Director of UN- tions Mine Action Service (UNMAS) is removal in Mosul, Al Shihabi Second- OPS in Kurdistan from 2007 to 2008. a service located within the United ary School in Al Karma, Iron Bridge in “This was a very instructive lecture. Nations Department of Peacekeeping Fallujah, and the electrical power lines The explosive removal situation in Iraq Operations that specializes in coordi- providing electricity to Kirkuk. He also after ISIS is different than in many nating and implementing activities to emphasized the role that women play other post-conflict zones. Much work limit the threat posed by mines, explo- in the activities of UNMAS, particular- happens in urban environment, in the sive remnants of war and improvised ly in Risk Education for children. rubble, and the improvised explosive explosive devices. The United Nations Pehr Lodhammar is a former Swedish devices can look like anything and be Mine Action Service (UNMAS) leads, Army Officer and a prominent expert in anywhere. This is much more compli- coordinates and implements United the fields of Explosive Ordnance Dis- cated than removing traditional land Nations efforts to eliminate landmines posal (EOD) and Explosives Hazard mines from a field.” stated Dr. Paul and explosive hazards and to mitigate Management (EHM). Prior to joining Phillipe, AUK’s Director of Center for their impact on people’s lives. Denmark grant additionally USD 11 million for explosive threat mitigation in liberated areas of Iraq

Baghdad, 26 March 2019 – The Unit- and schools. All littered with explosive said Mr. Pehr Lodhammar, Senior Pro- ed Nations Mine Action Service hazards following the defeat of ISIL. gramme Manager of UNMAS in Iraq. (UNMAS) in Iraq welcomes an addi- With this contribution from Denmark, “UNMAS has been in Iraq for just over tional contribution of DKK 73 million UNMAS will be able to better support three years, and we still have a long (over USD 11 million) from the Govern- the safe, orderly, voluntary and digni- way to go. We are very grateful for this ment of Denmark to mitigate the threat fied return of displaced communities generous contribution from Denmark posed by explosive hazards and enable through explosive hazard management, that will allow us to continue our work stabilization efforts in liberated areas risk education, and capacity enhance- in explosive hazard management and of Iraq. The scale, scope, and complexi- ment initiatives in support of the Iraqi simultaneously save lives in the pro- ty of explosive hazard contamination in government. cess,” added Mr. Lodhammar. liberated areas is substantial, and far Danish Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. exceeds the existing national resources Anders Samuelsen underlined the im- to clear them. portance of explosive threat mitigation This multi-year contribution (2019 to for the return of IDPs: “We are painful- 2021) from the Government of Den- ly aware that the return of internally mark is critical to the continuation of displaced persons to some kind of nor- operations and brings the total Danish mal life is not possible as long as explo- support for UNMAS work in Iraq to sive hazards threaten their life and DKK 165,500,000 (approximately USD safety. That is why UNMAS’ work re- 26 million). Through strategic partner- mains so critical.” ships and engagement of both internal “Explosive hazards are found every- and external stakeholders, and in sup- where: in infrastructure, schools, hospi- port of the Government of Iraq and the tals, homes and under bridges. They United Nations Development Pro- are mixed with the rubble, and are gramme (UNDP), UNMAS has so far found in rural and urban areas, some- cleared over 1,400 critical infrastruc- times visible, but often hidden, waiting ture sites. These include bridges, water for potential victims. They must all be treatment and power plants, hospitals cleared before communities are safe,” Volume 6, Issue 2 Mine Action Page 72

Japan provides additional contribution to explosive hazard management in liberated areas of Iraq

Baghdad, 28 March 2019 – The Unit- ed Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) welcomes an additional contribution of USD 1,625,000 from the Government of Japan to further mitigate the threat posed by explosive hazards in support of the provision, facilitation and enablement of humanitarian and stabilization support. “Japan has recently decided a new assistance package for Iraq amounting to USD 63 million, which includes this project as a contribution to explosive hazard management,” said His Excel- lency Mr. Naofumi Hashimoto, Ambas- sador of Japan to the Federal Republic ance, enhancement of existing govern- from getting victimized.”, Mr. Katsumi of Iraq. He reiterated Japan’s contin- ment resources, and engagement with Moriyasu, Consul of Japan in Erbil, ued support for Iraq’s reconstruction communities to ensure a unified re- talked to children in his speech at the efforts, notably through humanitarian sponse to explosive hazards. event. and stabilization assistance to help This contribution is complemented with “Significant explosive contamination displaced people return to their com- a risk education event for internally remains uncleared throughout the lib- munities. displaced people (IDPs) sponsored by erated areas and pose a significant UNMAS, working in tandem with its Japan, entitled “Safe Run”. Through threat to all members of the affected implementing partners, continues to interactive activities and a two- communities, with children being espe- maintain a weighted presence in Iraq, kilometre run for children of families cially vulnerable.” said Mr. Pehr Lo- especially in the areas liberated from residing in the camp, the event high- dhammar, UNMAS Senior Programme the Islamic State of Iraq and the Le- lighted correct behaviors to adopt when Manager in Iraq. “Whether through vant (ISIL). This contribution from the encountering explosive hazards. direct explosive hazard management, Government of Japan will support UN- “It is my sincere hope that you keep or risk education initiatives such as MAS explosive hazard management yourselves fully cautious and protect this ‘Safe Run’, Japan’s generous con- activities in Iraq. UNMAS implements yourselves, based upon the lessons you tribution will go a long way in support- a strategic, comprehensive response to have learned today. You are assured ing humanitarian and stabilization mitigate the risks posed by explosive that your parents, authorities, UN- efforts in the country.” hazards through three primary areas: MAS, local and international communi- The Government of Japan is an essen- explosive hazard management, capacity ties continue to work closely toward a tial contributor to UNMAS explosive enhancement, and risk education. This world without mines so that you, your hazards management activities in Iraq range of activities allows for a dynamic sisters and brothers can attend school and has donated over USD 14.4 million and adaptable approach covering clear- and play at outside fields, being free since 2016.

Safe Run on the occasion of the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action

Erbil, 04 April 2019 - In anticipation ades, the Government of Japan has vironment and therefore facilitate the of the 2019 International Day for Mine been a staunch supporter of humanitar- return of displaced communities.” Awareness and Assistance in Mine ian initiatives in Iraq, epitomizing a All participants received school items, Action, the United Nations Mine Action long-standing partnership between the t-shirts, and shoes customized with risk Service (UNMAS) recently held a “Safe two countries. We, at UNMAS, are education messages. The first three Run” for 12-year-old kids at the Debaga grateful for their support in helping us winners were also awarded bikes as camp for internally displaced people fulfill our mandate to create a safe en- their prize. (IDP) in the Kurdish Region of Iraq. Sponsored by the Government of Ja- pan, attendees included the Consul of Japan in Erbil, Mr. Katsumi Moriyasu, the Risk Education Director of the Iraqi Kurdistan Mine Action Agency (IKMAA), Mr. Karwan Zrar as well as the senior management of both UN- MAS and the Debaga IDP Camp. The event encompassed a three- kilometer race, the screening of risk education TV clips, a Q&A session, in addition to several speeches. Speaking at the event, Fran O’Grady, UNMAS Iraq Head of Projects, said: “For dec- Volume 6, Issue 2 Mine Action Page 73

Explosive hazards and rubble: Rebuilding life after war

Mosul, 4 April 2019 - Once Mosul was rials. with over 1,000 individual projects be- finally liberated from ISIL control in UNMAS has cleared in the region of ing undertaken across both East and mid-2016, the UN Mine Action Service 46,000 explosive hazards from Mosul, West Mosul. (UNMAS), UNDP’s Funding Facility for including conventional ammunition, From repairing roads and bridges, to Stabilization (FFS) and the Govern- IEDs, air-dropped munitions and stock- rebuilding schools and universities, to ment of Iraq immediately began work- piles of abandoned ISIL-manufactured restoring electricity and running water, ing together to enable the safe return of munitions. With such a large variety of UNDP and its partners have invested displaced Iraqis to the city. deadly items, the clearance work has hundreds of millions of dollars in the The fighting caused extensive and dev- been complex and time-consuming. rehabilitation of the city. astating damage to Mosul’s buildings With an estimated 10 million tons of The collaborative efforts of UNMAS, and infrastructure, which displaced rubble around Mosul (as much as three UNDP and the Iraqi government have hundreds of thousands of civilians. By times the Great Pyramid), UNDP then been successful, with some 1,300 the time the fighting stopped, the city began the process of clearing it. A cash- UNDP projects sites cleared of explo- was littered with explosive hazards and for-work programme was established, sive hazards by UNMAS. This has rubble to be cleared. providing temporary income for local helped enable over 1.6 million people to UNMAS and their partners on the people and injecting much-needed cash return to the province, with kids going ground deployed risk assessment teams into the local economy. back to reopened schools and Mosul across the city, followed by specialized Since then, UNDP has been working to getting back on its feet. teams to find and clear explosive mate- rehabilitate social services in the city,

UNOPS and the Government of Japan support demining in Iraq

“We sincerely hope that the Ministry of Interior (MoI), the Directorate of Mine Action (DMA) of the Ministry of Health and Environment, and the Iraqi Kurdi- stan Mine Action Agency (IKMAA) will manage and utilize provided equipment. We also hope that MOI, DMA, and IKMAA staff trained in this project will undertake demining and related activities effectively and efficiently so as to contribute to reestablishment of the normal living conditions of Iraqi people.” said Charge d’Affairs ad inter- im of Japan to Iraq, Mr. Akira Endo. He added, “Japan has recently decided a new assistance package for Iraq amounting to USD 63 million, including assistance in demining sector. Ja- pan will continue to contribute to re- Baghdad, 7 April 2019 – A handover equipment. This has improved the op- construction and development of Iraq ceremony was held today to mark the erational capacity of DMA, MOI, as by Iraqi people.” completion of the project “Improving well as IKMAA and their respective “Our deep gratitude to our friends the the Operational Capacity of Demining partners engaged in mine-action to government and people of Japan who Authorities” in Iraq. The project was undertake demining and related activi- continue to support humanitarian funded by the Government of Japan ties. In addition, UNOPS collaborated cause to eliminate the danger of mines and implemented by the United Na- with Japan International Cooperation on communities of Iraq. This project is tions Office for Project Services Agency (JICA) and the United Nations another milestone in the long way of (UNOPS) in cooperation with the Gov- Mine Action Service (UNMAS) in the friendship between Iraq and Japan. We ernment of Iraq. implementation of this project. JICA look forward to continue this in the With the aim of supporting the efficien- provided a series of mine action train- form of more projects that help people cy of the country's demining process, ings to the same set of beneficiaries of Iraq especially in liberated areas to the project provided vehicles, personal through its technical cooperation, while return and settle. Stabilization of the protection equipment, specialized UMNAS provided technical advice on life of the returnees is a priority and equipment for tactical exercises, and the specification of the procured this support we witness today will fur- land mine and unexploded ordnances demining equipment. ther add to achieve stabilization,” add- detectors, worth USD 3.2 million. At The project has contributed to the im- ed Dr. Cameran Ali, Director General the same time, more than 60 staff of provement of the safety and security of of Demining Agency in the Ministry of the Directorate for of Mine Action Iraqi population by reducing the risks Health and environment in the federal (DMA) of the Ministry of Health and of landmines, with particular focus on Government of Iraq (DMA-MOHE) Environment, the Ministry of Interior the newly liberated areas in Anbar, “The Government and People of Japan (MOI), and the Iraqi Kurdistan Mine Salah Al-Din, Ninewa (Mosul), showed support generously over the Action Agency (IKMAA) were trained Makhmur/Erbil and Dyala gover- years to Kurdistan Region Government in the use of the specialized demining norates. and people. This Project comes as an- Volume 6, Issue 2 Mine Action Page 74 UNOPS and the Government of Japan support demining in Iraq (continued) other testament of the remarkable their friendship dearly. The humanitar- for UNOPS Baghdad added that, “we friendship both Iraq and Japan devel- ian cause was always a priority to our are grateful to the Government of Ja- oped over long decades of mutual re- Japanese friends and their support pan, Government of Iraq, and all our spect and understanding,” stated Mr. over the years speaks loud for this,” partners in this important project. We Siraj Barzani Head of Iraqi Kurdistan concluded MG Kadhum who delivered a appreciate the opportunity to work Mine Action Agency (IKMAA) in his speech on behalf of the Ministry of inte- together and support the efforts to im- speech today on the closing ceremony of rior in which he also reiterated grati- prove the security and provide condi- the project. tude of GOI and people of Iraq to the tions for rehabilitation and reconstruc- “The generous donor; Government and Government and People of Japan. tion of the liberated areas.” People of Japan whom we embrace Ms. Dara Tell, Programme Specialist

Mine Action Day marked in Baghdad

Baghdad, 16 April 2019 - The Direc- torate of Mine Action (DMA), together with UNMAS, recently hosted an event to celebrate the 2019 International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action. Celebrations included a risk education play, the screening of risk education videos, exhibition booths from mine action operators as well as speeches from the Deputy Minister of Health and Environment (MoH&E), the Direc- tor-General of NGOs from the General Secretariat of Minister Council and UNMAS Iraq Senior Programme Man- ager. Kameran Ali Hasan, Deputy MoH&E. Kameran. “During the past two decades, Iraq suf- “The challenges facing the mine action UNMAS would like to thank DMA for fered many wars that led to the dis- sector are tremendous due to the usage hosting this event, with a special placement of a substantial number of of explosive material in the manufac- thanks to the donor community for its residents, thereby affecting the overall turing of improvised explosive devices, continuous support and generous con- demography of the country,” said Dr. affecting Iraq considerably,” added Dr. tributions to mine action in Iraq.

Healthcare Japan donates US$ 3.4 million to support the health and nutrition needs of children in Iraq

Baghdad, 4 March 2019 – The gov- assistance package for Iraq amounting flict affected governorates as well as ernment of Japan has donated US$3.4 to 63 million US dollars, including this providing immunization and nutrition million to provide lifesaving health and project as contribution in health and services to nearly 1 million children nutrition assistance for vulnerable chil- nutrition sectors. With this package, and breastfeeding mothers in areas of dren in conflict affected areas in Iraq. the total amount of Japan’s assistance returns as well as in the camps for dis- Approximately 4.2 million people have to the people affected by the crisis in placed people. returned to their homes after fleeing Iraq reaches 500 million US Dollars,” the violence that erupted in 2014, how- said H.E. Mr. Naofumi Hashimoto, ever many find their homes and com- Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of munities have been reduced to rubbles Iraq said. and essential health services over- UNICEF is grateful to the Government stretched. of Japan in their unwavering support “Across all conflict affected gover- to vulnerable children and families in norates, hospitals have been destroyed Iraq. Since 2015 UNICEF Iraq has and those that are functioning are over- partnered with Government of Japan to whelmed and struggling to meet health support the needs of children caught in and nutrition needs, placing the lives of cycles of violence. the most vulnerable children at risk of The latest funding of US$.3.4 million deadly diseases, including polio and will compliment Japan and UNICEF’s measles,” said Peter Hawkins, UNICEF investment for Iraqi children by build- Representative to Iraq. ing the capacity of health workers, “Japan has recently decided on a new strengthening health systems in con- Volume 6, Issue 2 Healthcare Page 75 Chances of survival for children in Dohuk see a significant improvement

Dohuk, 11 March 2019 – At Heevi patients admitted to this unit are under main immensely massive in a 189-bed Pediatric Hospital in Dohuk Gover- the care of 2 medical doctors and 3 nurs- facility like Heevi Pediatric hospital norate, the survival rate for children es on a 24/7 basis. This helps to improve where we contentiously record more with acute conditions has significantly care and the outcomes of patients. The admissions, especially during winter improved since WHO started supporting survival rates cannot entirely be at- and summer sessions,” said Dr Nezar the pediatric intensive care unit more tributed to the unit alone, but to a whole Baker. than 3 years ago. Thanks to the Office of continuum of care, that includes a com- “Many children in the wards wait for United States Foreign Disaster Assis- bination of clinical innovation, results space at the unit; the same is true for tance (USAID/OFDA) and the Govern- show promising signs of improved the neonatal intensive care unit. This ment of Kuwait who helped to equip the chances for children at the hospital. situation sometimes forces us to put unit with beds and medical equipment. More than 863 children with a range of more than 2 to 3 infants in one bed, Before its establishment, the survival illnesses from pneumonia and acute which technically and medically is not rate of all the children admitted in the renal failure to congenital heart disease right and is unhealthy,” added Dr unit in 2016 was at 60%, but with the and traumatic injuries from accidents Baker. unit up and running, the survival rate have been treated at this busy unit in Similarly, the 9 incubators and oxygen increased to 75% by the end of 2018. The the last 3 years, with an average of 700 machines were also provided to the hos- consultations per day in all hospital pital by WHO using funds from departments, approximately 60% of USAID/OFDA and European Union them are internally displaced persons Humanitarian Aid. More than 203 ill or (IDPs) and Syrian refugees. premature newborn infants, the majori- Although the unit is doing well saving ty IDPs, and refugees have been man- the lives of many children, it still grap- aged at the NICU since February to ples with a high patient’s caseload, few December 2018. beds and machines. Dr Nezar Baker, the Both the pediatric and neonatal units hospital manager, says that more beds were constructed with the support of the and space are required to match the Italian Agency for Development Cooper- overwhelming needs of critically ill chil- ation and implemented by Italian Asso- dren and newborn babies in Dohuk’s ciation for Solidarity among Peoples and only pediatric hospital. “I am thankful to Sassari University managed by Dohuk WHO for its support, but the needs re- Directorate of Health.

WHO support for prosthetic rehabilitation centre brings hope for patients with disabilities and killing 2 of his brothers while they played at home. His brothers died in- stantly but Jasmin survived although doctors were unable to save his legs. “After the explosion, I took Jasmin to a hospital in west Mosul where both of his legs were amputated. However, months later a mobile team from Hand- icap International visited our village and referred us to a prosthetic centre in Mosul, and eventually, we were brought to Sulaymaniyah Orthopedic unit,” said Jasmin’s uncle, Mahmoud. Mahmoud adds that Jasmin lost both his parents and another brother during the Mosul conflict, and his only hope for a better future depends on his ability to Sulaymaniyah, 12 March 2019 – about my situation and very much look- regain his mobility and independence Thirteen-year-old Jasmin from Badush ing forward to when I will be able to with his new prosthetic limbs. village in Mosul calmly sits despondent walk on my own two feet again,” he The rehabilitation of trauma victims and quiet on his wheelchair at the adds. from Mosul is essential for proper rein- WHO-supported emergency orthopedic Tens of thousands of people have lost tegration of all war casualties back to centre in Sulaymaniyah. His face bears limbs in Iraq’s 4-year crisis. Jasmin is their communities, WHO aims to en- the scars of recent injuries; his smile is one of the hundreds of beneficiaries sure that no one is left behind by col- mixed with joy and sadness but testi- who have received support from WHO laborating with EMERGENCY, who fies to his hope for a better future. and the Italian nongovernmental or- are running the prosthetics centre. "I want to be able to walk on my own ganization EMERGENCY. This support In this partnership arrangement, WHO again," says Jasmin, with his uncle by ensures the referral of patients from fully funds the transfer and treatment his side. “I want to go back to school Mosul to the orthopedic centre in of all patients referred from Mosul to and be a policeman so I can keep law Sulaymaniyah free of charge. the centre. This assistance has been and order in my community,” he says. In October 2017, an improvised explo- made possible through funds from the "I'm doing my best to remain positive sive device went off injuring Jasmin German Government. Volume 6, Issue 2 Healthcare Page 76 Pediatric Unit and Outpatient Deptartment open for patients in Hawija General Hospital

Baghdad, 12 March 2019 – The World Health Organization (WHO) and Kirkuk Directorate of Health today inaugurated the Out-patient Depart- ment and Pediatric Unit in Hawija General Hospital in Kirkuk Gover- norate. The out-patient department in the hospital has inflicted significant damage during the conflict in Hawija district in 2014-2017; it is now completely reno- vated and a pediatric unit of a number of prefabs and a 25-bed capacity ward added to support the delivery of extended pediatric health services in the facility. The project also covered the rehabilitation of the doctors’ guesthouse, supply- rehabilitate the health facilities de- complete package of specialized health ing a wide range of medical technolo- stroyed by over 4 years of fighting in care services to approximately 200,000 gies including the Emergency Room many governorates in Iraq,” said Dr. residents including IDPs and returnees and Operation Theater equipment, in Adham Rashad Ismail, WHO Acting from different areas of Kirkuk Gover- addition to the provision of more than Representative in Iraq. “We are keen norate. 30 tons of medicines, medical consuma- to ensure the full access of vulnerable The renovation project, which began in bles and kits of different treatment and population in affected areas to ade- November 2018, was completed in a surgical units. quate health care services,” he added. record time of four months in February “WHO will continue supporting the The hospital, the only health facility in 2019 with direct funds from Ministry of Health in its endeavor to the district, will provide access to a USAID/OFDA. WHO welcomes a generous contribution from Japan to rebuild resilient health systems in Iraq

Adham Ismail, Acting Representative of WHO in Iraq, acknowledging the generous contribution from Japan. WHO’s work will largely focus on devel- opmental activities to build and enhance the capacity of health professionals at various levels (central, governorate, and district) in disease detection and monitoring through strengthening of the surveillance system and laboratory diagnostics and in case management for prevalent diseases to ensure appropriate patient care. Baghdad, 11 March 2019 – The turned to their homes of origin, 10 per- This contribution will ensure an en- World Health Organization WHO ex- cent remain living in IDP camps. Fur- hanced infectious disease surveillance tends its gratitude to the Government ther, approximately 30 percent of the system and public health preparedness and People of Japan for the generous total recorded IDPs are living with host to enable early detection and response contribution of US$ 803,571 to assist in communities in displaced locations. The to disease outbreaks and other public protecting health security in post- IDPs, including those in the camps, health threats. It will also go towards conflict Iraq by strengthening the coun- within host communities, returnees enhancing the capacity of health profes- try’s ability to prepare for and respond and other vulnerable people, continue sionals in preparing for and responding to public health events, particularly in to be at risk of infectious diseases. to infectious disease outbreaks as well vulnerable populations. “The overall aim is to protect health as improving risk communication in While the country moves towards the security in Iraq by strengthening the infectious disease prevention and con- reconstruction and resilience phase, the country’s ability to prepare for and re- trol. Further, it will target 3,000,000 need for humanitarian assistance per- spond to public health events, using the high-risk populations, namely IDPs, sists, and services established by WHO all-hazards approach, as per the Inter- returnees, refugees and host communi- during the crisis need to be sustained national Health Regulations IHR ties. in areas of internally displaced persons (2005). More specifically, WHO will The Government of Japan has been a (IDPs), returnees, refugees and host continue to support vulnerable popula- key partner to WHO, contributing a communities. More than 5 million peo- tions in the prevention and control of total of US$ 6,075,696 million over 4 ple in Iraq were internally displaced epidemic-prone diseases and emerging years in support of the Organization’s because of recent conflict in Iraq. While infectious diseases that pose a threat to interventions and services to the health over 3.5 million individuals have re- people in post-conflict era” said Dr. sector across Iraq. Volume 6, Issue 2 Healthcare Page 77

The Joint External Evaluation workshop held in Baghdad to assess Iraq's capacity to prevent, detect and rapidly respond to diseases

Baghdad, 14 March 2019 – The World Health Organization (WHO) has commenced today the Joint External Evaluation workshop in Baghdad to assess Iraq's capacity to prevent, detect and rapidly respond to diseases and to develop the country's preparedness and response action plan to manage health risks. This program was supported by the Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster As- sistance (OFDA).

Vaccination campaign against measles, mumps and rubella concludes in Iraq

Baghdad, 1 April 2019 – The Minis- try of Health, in collaboration with WHO, completed a 10-day vaccination campaign to immunize children aged from 9 to 59 months in Iraq against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) from 10 to 24 March 2019. The campaign aimed to protect a large number of children and reduce the risk of severe and deadly MMR outbreaks in the country. It also forms a critical part of Iraq’s ongoing work to protect all populations against MMR epidemics, in alignment with the global measles and rubella strategic plan 2012–2020. Stressing the importance of vaccinating every child, Dr Adham Ismail, acting WHO Representative in Iraq, praised the enthusiastic approach by Ministry of Health teams and said, “We acknowledge the commitment and coop- house to house to ensure that all tar- all population immunity in Iraq as a eration of the health authorities in Iraq geted children were covered. They visit- result of the efforts made by the central to ensure that Iraqi children are pro- ed slums, settlements for internally Ministry of Health, Ministry of Health tected with a quality vaccine which will displaced persons and other areas in of the Kurdistan Regional Government contribute to health security and a saf- which marginalized communities reside and Departments of Health. Vaccina- er world”. to promote vaccination. tion is the most cost-effective public A subnational vaccination round WHO provided technical and financial health intervention and will maintain against MMR has already been success- support for the operational costs of this and strengthen the population's im- fully implemented in 2 phases. Phase I campaign, which was monitored by munity against MMR. was conducted between 3 and 11 Sep- independent Iraqi Red Cross Society’s tember 2018 and covered 10 provinces. monitoring teams and 6 WHO Tech- Phase II targeted 2 592 858 children nical Officers. The WHO Baghdad office aged 9–59 months in 9 provinces team attended the opening ceremony of (Baghdad-Kerkh, Baghdad-Resafa, the vaccination campaign at a local Diyala, Wassit, Diwania, Muthanna, health centre and walked with vaccina- ThiQar, Missan and Basra) over 10 tors in the Otaifiya neighbourhood days. 6490 vaccinators participated in monitoring the vaccination of a large this campaign, in addition to 646 team number of children. supervisors. Thanks to the strong commitment of The campaign is part of the vaccination the Government and dedication of strategy to strengthen immunity frontline health workers, there has against MMR. Vaccination teams went been a significant improvement in over- Volume 6, Issue 2 Healthcare Page 78 WHO, UNFPA and UNICEF reiterate their commitment to Universal Health Coverage for every person, anywhere, anytime in Iraq

Baghdad, 7 April 2019 – Today, as force, access to quality medicines and UNFPA continues to prioritize mater- the world commemorates World Health health products, functional health in- nal health, childbirth and newborn care Day with the theme, Universal Health formation systems and people-centered services through the support of 76 facil- Coverage (UHC), WHO, UNFPA and service delivery systems. WHO, UN- ities to mitigate the risks of maternal UNICEF recommit to supporting the FPA and UNICEF are working closely deaths and ensure no pregnancy is un- Government of Iraq ensure that every with the authorities in Iraq at the na- attended by birth attendants in Iraq. person in Iraq has access to quality tional and subnational levels to UNICEF has focused much of its health care services, in accordance with strengthen health systems for better healthcare work on immunization, new- the Sustainable Development Goal service delivery. born care, and nutrition across Iraq, (SDG) of achieving universal health WHO continues to support the Iraqi including among vulnerable communi- coverage by 2030. Ministry of Health in prepositioning ties such as the internally displaced Iraq has made considerable progress of mobile clinics in areas with limited or and hard to reach areas. Although 90% striving to ensure access to quality and no access to health care services, pro- of under-fives received polio and mea- affordable health care services for its curing medicines and other medical sles vaccinations last year, only half of citizens over the past 25 years. The supplies, as well as developing strate- under ones got all the vaccinations re- country has seen great improvement in gies, guidelines and policies in favor of quired to ensure a healthy childhood. life expectancy from 68.1 to 70.3 years; universal health care. In addition, the Without adequate immunization, Iraqi neo-natal mortality have gone down organization is working to build the children have significantly higher risks from 27 to 17% per 1000 live birth, capacity of health workers through of developing debilitating diseases and while under five mortality has reduced trainings and is supporting the rehabil- lifelong disabilities. from 54 to 30%. However, more needs itation of damaged and destroyed On this World Health Day, the UN to be done in order to build on these health facilities. reiterates its commitment to work with achievements and ensure equitable Women and girls in particular are still the Government to bring the country access to essential health services, irre- unable to realize their sexual and re- one-step closer to an Iraq where every- spective of socio-economic status or productive health and rights and suffer one has rights, choices, and access to geographic location. from gender-based violence. Protracted quality health services. Together, we Accessing UHC means providing access displacement places an extra burden, can contribute to ensuring that the to essential quality care and protection. making them unable to access repro- people of Iraq are among the global one This entails integration of good stew- ductive health services in a timely billion more people exercising their ardship, adequate public financing, manner, leading to life-threatening human right to have access to quality qualified and motivated health work- risks during pregnancy and delivery. health services. WHO sends shipment of kits and medical supplies to Missan governorate

About 328 726 populations are at risk. Cities and villages affected are: Ali al- Gharbi, al-Msharrah, Hay al- Mua’alemeen al-Jadeed, al-Salam, al- Faka, al-Btaira, al-Teeb, al-Adil, al- Maymouna, al-Uzair and al-Kahlaa. Areas seriously threatened are villages west of the Tigris River (Hor Al- Musandak) along Ali al-Gharbi, Ali al- Sharqi and Qamit. 545 families are displaced with another 2000 families threatened with displacement. The Government coordinated multi- sectoral efforts, supervised and supported relief operations, established 5 camps, and coordinated with Iraqi Ar- my forces and civil defense to send heli- copters to evacuate people trapped in flooded areas. With the situation quick- Baghdad, 8 April 2019 – Responding Missan was adversely affected by the ly evolving, 101 families in some villag- to the needs of the Directorate of floods which were caused by heavy rain es were evacuated to a camp in a neigh- Health in Missan following the recent and floods from the border with Islamic boring village. floods that hit the area, WHO, with the Republic of Iran. The flood water is “In response to the crisis, the WHO generous support of donors, sent a large covering a wide area of land, which has country office in Iraq has been coordi- consignment of emergency kits and led to the migration of residents, dam- nating very closely with the Missan medical supplies on 4 April to support age to property, death of livestock and Directorate of Health. WHO kept high the Directorate, 304 kilometers south destruction of agricultural crops in level coordination and collaboration east of Baghdad. many villages and marshlands. with the Directorate of Health in Mis- Volume 6, Issue 2 Healthcare Page 79 WHO sends shipment of kits and medical supplies to Missan governorate (continued) san through medical operations and torate with 30 Basic Interagency Emer- signment included supplementary mod- specialized services.” said Dr. Adham gency Health Kit and trauma kits to ule pharmaceutical kits, supplementary Ismail, acting WHO Representative in cover a population of 100 000 for one module equipment, renewable kits, Iraq. “WHO acted promptly in respond- month. WHO will continue its efforts in trauma profile/emergency kits, medical ing to monitoring the floods and receiv- monitoring the flood and health situa- supplies, and basic units (without a ing regular reports, it assessed water tion in Missan,” Dr. Ismail added. malaria component). quality and access to clean water and Officials at Missan Directorate of The support to Missan's Directorate of monitored cases of acute diarrhea. Fur- Health stressed that the shipment Health was made possible through a ther, WHO has shared information would save lives in the governorate and generous contribution from donors and with the Development Coordination could be used by mobile clinics offering health partners, in particular, the Of- Office at UNAMI and all United Na- emergency health care and services to fice of United States Foreign Disaster tions partner agencies in Basra, partic- affected people. They expressed appre- Assistance. ularly with UNICEF – Water and Sani- ciation to WHO and donors for their tation Unit, and supported the Direc- quick response and support. The con-

World must work harder to secure sexual and reproductive rights for all, says new UNFPA report

United Nations, New York, 10 April says the report. The average number of the promises made in Cairo 25 years 2019— The global reproductive rights births per woman was 4.8 then, com- ago to ensure sexual and reproductive movement that began in the 1960s pared to 2.9 in 1994 and 2.5 today; fer- health and rights for all,” said Dr. transformed the lives of hundreds of tility rate in the least developed coun- Kanem. “The world will have a historic millions of women, empowering them to tries dropped from 6.8 in 1969, to 5.6 in opportunity to complete the unfinished govern their own bodies and shape 1994 and 3.9 in 2019; and the number business of the ICPD at the Nairobi their own futures. But despite the gains of women who died from pregnancy- Summit on ICPD25 to be held in Kenya made over the past 50 years, since the related causes has decreased from 369 in November, where governments, ac- establishment of UNFPA, the United per 100,000 live births in 1994, to 216 tivists and stakeholders will rally to Nations sexual and reproductive health in 2015. In addition, 24 per cent of protect the gains made so far, and ful- agency, the world still has a long way women used modern contraceptives in fill the promise of the ICPD agenda, so to go before rights and choices are 1969, compared to 52 per cent in 1994 that no one is left behind.” claimed by all, according to the State of and 58 per cent in 2019. The report also features 15 champions World Population 2019, released by However, reproductive rights are still of change who have broken barriers in UNFPA today. out of reach for too many women, in- their own context and influenced the On the journey towards rights and cluding the more than 200 million landscape of sexual and reproductive choices, women and girls have faced women who want to prevent a pregnan- health and rights into what it is today. social and economic barriers every step cy but cannot access modern contracep- “I salute these champions,” said Dr. of the way. A coalition of civil society, tive information and services. Kanem. “We all have a role in pushing activists, and organizations such as “Despite the increasing availability of back against forces that would see us UNFPA have been helping tear down contraceptives over the years, hundreds return to a time when women had little those barriers. of millions of women today still have no say in reproductive decisions or, for The efforts of the reproductive rights access to them, and to the reproductive that matter, in any area of their lives,” movements have dramatically reduced choices that come with them,” said UN- she added. “The fight for rights and the number of unintended pregnancies FPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia choices must continue until they are a and maternal deaths, and have cleared Kanem. “Without access, they lack the reality for all.” the way for healthier, more productive power to make decisions about their Facts and figures from the report: lives for untold millions, the new UN- own bodies, including whether or when • Number of deaths of women FPA report says. to become pregnant.” from pregnancy-related causes per The report traces advances in reproduc- “The lack of this power—which influ- 100,000 live births, worldwide: 369 in tive health on the anniversaries of two ences so many other facets of life, from 1994; 216 in 2015. important milestones. It has been 50 education to income to safety—leaves • Regional modern contracep- years since UNFPA began operations in women unable to shape their own fu- tive prevalence rate: 11 per cent in 1969 as the first United Nations agency tures,” added Dr. Kanem. 1969; 33 per cent in 1994; 48 per cent to address population growth and re- The report includes, for the first time, in 2019. productive health needs. It is also the data on women’s ability to make deci- • Global fertility rate, or aver- 25th anniversary of the 1994 Interna- sions over three key areas: sexual inter- age number of births per woman: 4.8 in tional Conference on Population and course with their partner, contracep- 1969; 2.9 in 1994; 2.5 in 2019. Development (ICPD), where 179 gov- tion use and health care. Across the 51 • An estimated 40 million wom- ernments called for all people to have countries where this information is en alive today in the region were mar- access to comprehensive reproductive available, only 57 per cent of women ried when they were children. health care, including voluntary family who are married or in a relationship • Every day, more than 500 planning, and safe pregnancy and are able to make their own choices over women and girls in countries with childbirth services. all three of these areas. emergency settings die during pregnan- Much has been achieved since 1969, “I call on world leaders to re-commit to cy and childbirth. Volume 6, Issue 2 Healthcare Page 80 WHO expresses sadness on death of a Mobile Medical Clinic doctor while on duty in Ninewa Governorate

Baghdad, 11 April 2019 - The World tioned governorate on 7 April 2019. post-conflict settings. Health Organization (WHO) is deeply WHO extends its condolences to the WHO stresses the importance of ensur- saddened by the tragic loss of one of its family and friends of the late doctor ing the existence of safety measures for partners’ medical doctors working in and would like to highlight the growing medical service delivery to eliminate Ninewa Governorate. dangers and tremendous risks doctors, risks and help medical staff meet the Dr. Saad Yassin Ali passed away while nurses and other health care workers challenge of safeguarding health in managing the health services delivered continue to face on the line to providing hard to reach areas, displacement by the WHO supported mobile medical lifesaving health care to those in need camps, and post-conflict zones. clinic based in Ba’aj area west the men- and those caught up in conflict and The Ministry of Health, supported by WHO and UNICEF, launches the National Immunization Days campaign in Iraq

Baghdad, 16 April 2019 – His Excel- lency, the Minister of Health, Dr Alaa Alwan in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Acting Country Representative, Dr Adham Ismail, and UNICEF Representative, Ms Hamida Lasseko, launched on 7 April 2019 the Polio National Immun- ization Days (NIDs) campaign in a health centre in Baghdad. The launch was the outcome of a strong partnership between the United Nations and the Ministry of Health (MOH) at the national and sub-national levels, aimed at ensuring that every child is protect- ed against polio. “I am very happy to be here. No case of polio has been recorded in Iraq for many years, vaccination campaigns and family awareness will ensure that polio children. WHO and its partners are and 25,278 vaccinators and 2,920 su- will not return. We hope and seek to proud of the achievements made thus pervisors participated. achieve a high rate of polio and other far in the area of vaccine preventable The campaign was monitored inde- vaccination coverage as well as ensure diseases in Iraq,” explained WHO’s pendently by 290 monitors and 38 su- the highest possible level of health for Acting Country Representative, Dr pervisors from the Iraqi Red Crescent all the people of Iraq” said Dr Alwan. Adham Ismail. Society (IRCS) in addition to a team of During the week-long campaign, health UNICEF worked to ensure that vac- 12 WHO Polio Eradication Officers. teams went from house to house to en- cines are properly forecasted, stored sure that all targeted children were and managed; it also provided technical covered, particularly vulnerable chil- support to public health workers as dren in hard to reach and marginalized they developed a detailed and up to communities such as internally dis- date map of target children irrespective placed persons and refugees. of whether the children are IDPs, refu- WHO supervised the campaign to en- gees, returnees or in host communities, sure that the quality met the highest or whether they live in urban, rural, vaccination standards, provided tech- official or unofficial settings. UNICEF nical and operational support including also ran awareness-raising activities to incentives for health workers, training encourage vaccination, including radio of vaccinators, and independent moni- discussions, social media engagement tors for the campaign. WHO also par- and outreach with youth groups. ticipated in the awareness campaign “We are working closely with all our run by the Ministry of Health to urge partners to ensure that children are parents to vaccinate their children, vaccinated and no child is left behind. including radio and video broadcasts Vaccines are safe to use and I urge all and posts on social media platforms. parents to take their children to health “WHO is committed to supporting centers and cooperate with the field health authorities in Iraq to reach eve- vaccinators” said UNICEF’s Ms ry child, regardless of where they are. Hamida Lasseko. In this campaign, WHO’s priority is to During the campaign, more than 5.8 reach all children in high-risk gover- million children under the age of 5 norates with the polio vaccine in order years from 145 districts in over 18 gov- to protect Iraq and the future of its ernorates all over Iraq were targeted, Volume 6, Issue 2 Healthcare Page 81 WHO sends new shipment of emergency equipment and medical supplies to Missan

Baghdad, 23 April 2019 – To respond will not leave behind casualties. Finan- vices. We acted promptly in our re- to the needs of the Directorate of cial damage is compensable but not sponse to monitoring the flood situation Health in Missan following recent lives – quick action saves lives.” He and received regular reports. We have flooding affecting the area, WHO with expressed appreciation for all support conducted surveillance of water quality the support of donors, arranged deliv- that had been provided in responding and of people's access to clean water, ery of a second consignment of emer- to the needs of the people. and have recorded all cases of acute gency supplies to support the Direc- The WHO Representative in Iraq Dr diarrhea. WHO has been sharing this torate. The shipment was transported Adham Ismail provided reassurance information with all United Nations on 17 April 2019 to Missan gover- that WHO would be available and partner agencies and will continue all norate, 304 kilometers south east of ready at all times to support the Direc- efforts to monitor the situation in Mis- Baghdad. The shipment included emer- torate's efforts to control post floods in san and deliver emergency supplies and gency and medical supplies, inflatable relation to communicable diseases. Dr offer support to health authorities,” boats and life jackets. Ali al-Allaq, Director-General of Mis- said Dr Ismail. Missan was adversely affected by the san's Directorate of Health said that A WHO team visited al-Btairah to as- floods that were caused by heavy rain. plans had been adequately reviewed, sess the situation on the ground and Mr Ali Dawai, the Governor of Missan, amended and updated according to the noted that tents for internally displaced explained that the situation was criti- emergency. “We will continue to pro- people had been erected along road- cal. “We are keen to ensure this crisis vide health services and ensure a sides and that no camp had been estab- strong response to emergency needs.” lished. Preventative measures were He thanked WHO for its continued needed for vulnerable families and peo- efforts and support to regular pro- ple needed access to clean water. Moni- grammes and the quick response and toring of the health situation was vital. coordination with the emergency health Support to Missan Directorate of team. Health was made possible through gen- “WHO has maintained a high level of erous contributions from donors and coordination and collaboration with health partners, in particular the Office Missan's Directorate of Health through of United States Foreign Disaster As- medical operations and specialized ser- sistance. FAO – Iraq organized a technical workshop on the Crimean –Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) under the theme of “One Health”

Baghdad, 29 April 2019 - The Food port to the Ministry of Health and En- experts from the Ministry of Agricul- and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of vironment. Mr. El-Zubi said. He added ture, Ministry of Health and Environ- the United Nations in Iraq, in collabo- that FAO is currently seeking to devel- ment and other organizations interest- ration with the World Health Organiza- op an Arabic Early Warning System for ed in CCHF in particular. The Panel- tion in Iraq, held a one-day technical Animal Diseases, which will help to ists discussion focused on the scope and workshop on the Crimean –Congo provide accurate information on all scale of the CCHF as zoonoses disease Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in Bagh- types of animal diseases in Iraq and and best practices and mitigation dad. The CCHF had been an emerging cooperation with the public and private measures to eradicate this fever. Fol- zoonotic disease – defined as a disease sectors. lowing the workshop and consultations, that passes from an animal or insect to The workshop included a mix of expert participants agreed on several mitiga- a human - in Iraq since 1979. The panel discussions and breakout session tion measures to help eliminate the workshop focused on strengthening the activities. Participants included scien- CCHF fever and to improve existing participant's understanding of CCHF tists, experts from UN agencies, aca- collaboration in support of “One as a severe viral hemorrhagic fever demia, and private sector, as well as Health.” transmitted by ticks. It has been responsible for several deaths in humans, whereas it doesn’t affect the hosts, mostly cows, sheep, and goats. The name of the disease refers to the places where it was first recognized as a viral disease. The CCHF workshop kicked off strong collaboration between the Gov- ernment of Iraq, the technical colleges and the UN agencies under the theme of “One Health.” "On this occasion, FAO expresses its gratitude to the Ministry of Health and Environment and the Ministry of Agri- culture, in particular, the Central Pub- lic Health Laboratories for their dili- gent efforts in diagnosing the cause of the disease, also to the World Health Organization for their continuous sup- Volume 6, Issue 2 Environment Page 82 Uncovering a fish epidemic that stunned Iraq

Baghdad, 5 March 2019 – On 26 Oc- tober 2018, a major fish kill episode that wiped out millions of mostly caged farmed carp in Iraq’s central Euphrates region sent the country into major pan- ic. Fear spread that the fish kill was caused by a mysterious pollution that could also poison people, whilst fish farmers agonized over their losses as the source of their livelihoods abruptly vanished. Deeming the fish kill a national security issue, Iraq’s newly appointed Prime For all the samples taken by the Minis- from the Koi Herpes Virus (KHV) dis- Minister, Dr. Adel Abdul Mahdi, imme- try of Health and Environment, test ease,” affirmed Dr. Thomas Wahli, who diately assembled a crisis team led by results showed no significant contami- heads the Swiss Reference Laboratory the Ministry of Health and Environ- nation from heavy metals, hydrocar- for Notifiable Diseases. “KHV is a very ment and the Ministry of Agriculture to bons or pesticides. “Unlike water, serious and lethal disease that is investigate its causes and take appro- which only gives a snapshot of environ- known to cause almost 100 percent priate remedial measures. mental conditions at a specific point in mortality rates in carps,” he added. The “The scale of the fish kill was so huge, time, sediment acts as a storage reser- Principal Virologist at the UK’s Inter- we had excavators working for four voir for contaminants,” explained Dr. national Centre of Excellence for days clearing the fish from the river,” John Pote, Head of the Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Health (CEFAS), Dr. affirmed Dr. Ala Alwan, Iraq’s Minister Environmental Microbiology at the Richard Paley, also agreed that “while of Health and Environment, who per- University of Geneva, who coordinated overstocking and transient water quali- sonally inspected the situation on the the laboratory study commissioned by ty issues such as low dissolved oxygen ground once news of the incident broke UN Environment. levels may have stressed the fish and out. “We also used oil spill booms to “Based on these results, we can there- helped propagate the virus, given the contain and prevent the fish from drift- fore rule out that chemical contamina- current information, one can reasona- ing downstream, especially as many tion played a role in the fish kill, which bly conclude that the root cause of this fish farmers rashly dumped the dead should reassure the public that the mass fish kill episode is KHV disease.” carp into the Euphrates River,” he add- farmed carp is safe to eat,” he added. With Euphrates River water tempera- ed. These conclusions were also shared by ture dropping to 23-25°C in November, Faced with this unprecedented massive Mr. Ahmed El-Olimat, Deputy Head of an optimal environment was created fish mortality, the Iraqi Government Quality and Laboratory Affairs in Min- for the CyHV-3 virus, which flourishes decided to request emergency technical istry of Water and Agriculture in Jor- between 16-28°C. Reports of similar assistance from the World Health Or- dan, who coordinated the test of the small-scale fish kill incidents in multi- ganization (WHO), the Food and Agri- water samples sent by WHO to Jordan. ple pockets in western and central Iraq culture Organization (FAO) and UN DNA tests run by the Swiss National further validated the occurrence of a Environment to help determine the Fish Disease Laboratory and Reference wider epidemic. cause of the sudden die off. Laboratory for Notifiable Diseases “The outbreak may represent develop- Fish and environmental samples were found the presence of the Cyprinid her- ment of the disease in latently infected collected by the Ministry of Health and pesvirus (CyHV-3) in all fish samples fish due to stressor events or perhaps Environment based on UN Environ- examined, confirming Iraqi scientists’ more likely, based on the size of the ment’s advice from the epicentre of the suspicions that the fish kill was caused event, introduction of infected animals fish kill incident near Al-Musayab, by a disease outbreak. They had ob- into naïve stocks with no previous expo- Babel governorate, approximately 70 served white or brown patches on the sure or immune protection, indicating a kilometres south of Baghdad. Since gills of afflicted fish as critical clinical recent introduction”, reckoned Dr. Pa- 2011, this area had become a thriving signs of an infection. Furthermore, the ley. hub for Iraq’s growing fish farming mortality only affected farmed carp and “This is the first case of Koi Herpes industry where a rapid expansion in not wild fish. Virologic analysis com- Virus disease in Iraq, and it is a signifi- the use of floating river cages to grow missioned by WHO and FAO – in Jor- cant case report which will need to be common carp (Cyprinus carpio) became dan and Italy respectively – also con- notified to the World Organisation for established. At the same time, “the firmed the Swiss laboratories’ findings. Animal Health,” underlined Minister high density of fish cages almost back- “WHO was very concerned about this Alwan. to-back for kilometres, coupled with incident which could have posed a pub- “We are pleased to have been able to extreme overstocking, contravened lic health risk to communities in Baby- get to the bottom of this difficult case national regulations,” cautioned Minis- lon governorate and beyond. However, and intend to build on this experience ter Alwan. after confirming that the outbreak is to improve our environmental surveil- UN Environment, WHO and FAO rap- due to a viral infection, WHO is confi- lance and diagnostic capacity, particu- idly organized for the fish, water, sedi- dent that fish consumption has no ef- larly for viral diseases, so that we can ment and fish feed samples to be fect on human health,” confirmed Mr. properly investigate such events. Mean- shipped to internationally accredited Mohamed Hamasha, Senior Environ- while, we need to control fish farm laboratories. Comprehensive chemical mental Health Expert and Mr. Soren numbers and raise farmers’ awareness and microbiological tests were carried Madison, Food Safety Adviser at WHO. on the appropriate procedures to follow out by three different laboratories, in- “High loads of Cyprinid herpesvirus to prevent and rapidly contain similar cluding in Switzerland, Jordan and DNA in the gill, kidney and brain fish outbreaks in the future,” he asserted. Italy. tissue revealed that the carp suffered Volume 6, Issue 2 Environment Page 83 Designing for water sustainability in one of the world's driest regions

Baghdad, 19 March 2019 - The theme with the average person getting just to benefit the most from new initiatives of this year’s World Water Day, is Wa- one-eighth the renewable water—that to achieve SDG 6. ter for All. Water is a key measure of generated through the hydrological UNDP has scaled up its support in re- inequality and poverty and expanding cycle—that the average global citizen cent years to address this challenge. access to water is critical to achieving enjoys. By 2030 the effects of climate UNDP is increasing cooperation in the Sustainable Development Goals. change could possibly reduce renewable countries, including water for commu- This is particularly important in the water by a further 20 percent. nities affected by war. In Yemen more Arab region, which has 14 of the This has consequences for poor and than 19 million people, close to 80 per- world’s 20 driest countries. The region’s crisis-affected communities, who suffer cent of the population, don’t have clean rainfall is well below the world average, the most from lack of water, and stand drinking water and sanitation, and the country faces the largest and fastest spreading outbreak of cholera in modern history. UNDP administers the Emergency Crisis Response Project, with more than US$300 million from the World Bank. It has been able to get water for more than two million people through more than 300 water harvest- ing and supply projects and building 70,000 cubic metres of water reservoirs. In Iraq, millions of IDPs are returning to homes newly liberated from the Is- lamic State. UNDPs Funding Facility for Stabilization, with over US$400 million from 20 donors, is working on some 1,000 development and stabilization projects. One focus is rehabilitating water facilities in Ramadi, Ninewah Plains, and Mosul. These and other projects are helping to get water to hundreds of thousands of people. By Kishan Khoday, UNDP Australia donates US$ 6.1 million to improve access to clean water for children in southern Iraq

Baghdad, 19 March 2019 – Ahead of Australia’s generous contribution will • In 2018 UNICEF installed five World Water Day on Friday 22 March, enable UNICEF to work with the water pumps at Basra’s most important UNICEF thanks the Government of southern Governorates to provide ac- water treatment plant and conducted Australia for their generous donation of cess to sufficient and safe water ser- ‘quick fix’ rehabilitations in four key US$6.1 million to support the provision vices to 3.8 million children over the water treatment facilities to ensure of water and sanitation services for next two years. It will improve access to water quantity increased for up to vulnerable children in southern Iraq. water in health centres and schools for 750,000 people. Years of conflict, mass displacement, 1.7 million families, as well as • Educational messages on safe climate change and underinvestment in strengthening the government’s capaci- water and the importance of water con- water networks have created a water ty for integrated water resource man- servation were also disseminated to crisis that is affecting large parts of the agement in four governorates. more than 50,000 children in the areas country. Note for editors: worst affected by the water scarcity. “The needs of children in the southern governorates cannot be overstated. There is an urgent need for both immediate and long-term investment in critical water and sanitation services, particularly in the worst affected governorates of Basra, Thi-Qar and Diwani- ya,” said Peter Hawkins, UNICEF’s Representative in Iraq. “The Australian Government is pleased to be partnering with UNICEF in providing safe drinking water to the most vulnerable communities and to prevent children becoming sick from preventable waterborne diseases,” said Dr Joanne Loundes, Australian Ambas- sador to the Republic of Iraq. Volume 6, Issue 2 Environment Page 84 UNICEF Iraq: Together for water!

Baghdad, 27 March 2019 – UNICEF held a World Water Day celebration with over 150 volunteers from: Friends of UNICEF group, Iraqi Pharmaceuti- cal Students, Iraqi Dental Students Association, International Federation of Medical Students Association –Iraq and Iraqi Red Crescent Society promoting the right to water for all and sharing ideas to save water. The event was supported by the Government of Ger- many.

It’s not rubbish; UN Environment experts assist Kirkuk with debris management

Kirkuk, 29 March 2019 - Today United Nations Industrial Development and livelihoods in a sustainable man- marked the completion of the visit from Organization, the United Nations As- ner. the United Nations Environment Pro- sistance Mission for Iraq and non- The Mayor of Riyad District delivered a gramme to Kirkuk Governorate. “After governmental partners such as the passionate plea in favour of debris previous successful interventions in Norwegian Refugee Council, OxFam, management. He had lost his leg from Mosul (in February 2018) and Anbar MedAir and Relief International, which unexploded ordnance buried in the de- (in November 2018), the time was right are supporting the government’s efforts bris. The recommendations on risk edu- to come to Kirkuk”, said Hassan Par- to reconstruct 116 villages destroyed in cation and the safe disposal of hazard- trow, UN Environment Programme the fight against ISIS, also participat- ous materials, were immediately ac- Manager and head of the delegation. ed. cepted. Most of the roads in these areas The visit culminated in a technical “While Kirkuk’s huge amount of rubble are still unpaved, and recycled debris workshop on debris management on 27- may be viewed as a problem, all this forms excellent paving material. Spe- 28 March 2019 at Kirkuk University. debris also offers an opportunity to cialized machines were requested from Opened by the acting Governor of Kir- generate alternative livelihoods government departments to aid in the kuk, Mr. Rakan Al Joubouri, and the through recycling and reuse of the ma- debris removal and from donors to pur- President of the University, Dr. Abbas terial”, said Martin Bjerregaard, Senior chase a small crusher to allow munici- Hassan Taqi, the workshop brought Advisor on Debris Management for UN palities start the debris management. together over 140 experts from key Environment. “However, debris is cur- Text by Mr. Martijn Dalhuijsen, DCO, government departments implementing rently disposed of in a spontaneous and UNAMI debris removal efforts. Experts on ad-hoc manner which means that this demining and explosives, policy mat- valuable recycling potential is being ters, the environment, universities and lost”. the mayors of the affected areas were Participants at the workshop agreed on also present. an integrated debris management plan, The UN Mine Action Service, the Unit- which will enable environmentally- ed Nations Development Programme, sensitive disposal and recycling of de- the UN Refugee Agency, the Interna- bris to ensure residents can return to tional Organization for Migration, the their villages and rebuild their homes Greener landscapes for a brighter Haweja

Kirkuk, 11 April 2019 - After several fruit, plastic bags, empty water bottles, energy. days of steady downpours, a group of discarded newspapers and torn cartons With Earth Day just around the corner, Iraqi volunteers recently gathered un- accumulating in already oversized rub- we all have a responsibility to respect der a clearing sky in the city of Haweja bish pits. "With this picture in plain our natural surroundings, embrace and in Kirkuk Governorate with one aim: to sight, my friend Wasim and I decided to nurture our flora and fauna in all its weed off the surrounding areas of un- launch a clean-up campaign to beautify forms and species, and learn to live in wanted garbage, to spruce up the path- our city", Mohammed said. harmony with the beauty of our planet. ways with newly planted tree saplings, The group, whose ranks have swelled and to advocate for a greener, cleaner from about 10 early on to number now and brighter Haweja. around 150, meets periodically to host Mohammed Al-Jumaily, a lecturer at various activities ranging from clean- Haweja Technical Institute and found- up activities to visiting and supporting er of the voluntary group, notes that the internally displaced living in the idea to engage in clean-up activities camps. Despite years of war and calam- in his home city was born out of sheer ity that Iraqis have borne, causing de- simplicity - the fact that a visit to the struction of land and loss of life, this main market one morning opened his vibrant group of volunteers demon- eyes to all the bits and pieces of rotten strate a positive spirit with infectious Volume 6, Issue 2 Environment Page 85 Protecting the environment and managing water resources key to Iraq’s long-term prosperity

Baghdad, 22 April 2019 - Internation- al Mother Earth Day is when we celebrate Nature’s gifts and we promote and show awareness of the call to ensure the environmental security of our planet. It has increasing significance in Iraq, a country emerging from years of armed conflict which faces a host of environmental problems from an ongoing water crisis, that threatens both stability and development, to pollution, all made worse by limited awareness of what the people can contribute to the well-being of our environment. Climate change is one of the largest threats to sustainable development globally, and its impact touches us all. Iraq is not among the major contribu- tors to climate change, but Iraq is puts awareness at the forefront. clean and efficient alternative. among the countries affected, as seen in The Government of Iraq has made im- The United Nations in Iraq is doing its the extreme weather of the last few proving water management a priority. part. The UN family in Iraq provides years – scorching temperatures, deser- For this effort to be effective, sufficient technical support to the government on tification and water shortages, and the allocation of resources and capacity efficient water resources management. recent heavy rainfall and floods. building is required at all levels. It can- In addition, since 2017, the United Na- Iraq sits in what was once known as not succeed without the solid commit- tions has provided emergency supplies Mesopotamia, the land between the ment of the political parties - across of water to over two million displaced Rivers Euphrates and the Tigris. His- party lines – to deal with an issue of persons in Iraq, and to five million indi- torically, its people have been able to high national importance. Water re- viduals in communities affected by vio- exercise their right to water. In fact, an sources are finite and increasingly lence and conflict. The UN also sup- abundance of water was a key factor in scarce. There needs to be a change in ports local governments in upgrading the development of Iraq’s rich civiliza- our approach to this precious resource. their water systems and sewage treat- tions. With rights come responsibilities. Eve- ment plants. However, the water crisis is real. An ry drop of water needs judicious use at At UN Iraq headquarters in Baghdad, exceptional season of heavy rainfall has all levels. Water wastage should be we are using solar power and other filled dams and rivers, and flooded socially unacceptable, and conservation energy efficient measures to achieve a lands, but still, Iraq faces a water crisis promoted. 50 percent reduction of the convention- in terms of both supply and quality. As In the same vein, waste management al energy we use by the end of 2020. All we approach the hot summer season requires awareness and action. Promot- new construction is energy efficient, the crisis can only be expected to grow. ing behavioural change, rehabilitating using 50 percent less energy than con- Population growth, regional disagree- and modernising agricultural infra- ventional buildings, existing buildings ments over trans-boundary water sup- structure as well as ensuring pollutant- are retrofitted to consume 30 percent ply, poor infrastructure, outdated prac- free, environment-friendly industry are less energy than conventional build- tices of waste and water management, some of the measures to stop the waste ings. We use reusable bags and paper increased salinization and climate and damage. Clearly a lot more needs bags instead of plastic and aim for 25 change all contribute to Iraq’s contem- to be done in all sectors. But it is up to percent greening of the landscape. We porary water problems. The conse- us to act, even with small but effective use recycled water for irrigation, ener- quences are felt at all levels, humani- steps that contribute to the well-being gy efficient lighting and air condition- tarian, economic, security, and social. of our environment. ing, and, equally important, we have No effort should be spared to manage Recycle and sort waste when you can. year-round awareness campaigns on this crisis and a sense of urgency is Conserve water and energy when you energy efficiency. desperately needed. Equally important are able. Think before using plastic – The argument by some that the is to inform the Iraqi people that sus- bags, cups, trays. Think about how you measures we can take individually and tainable solutions to counter the dam- dispose of batteries. Plant a tree and collectively will not make a difference is age done to the environment will take watch it grow. Make it a habit to switch not valid. The enormity of the problem time and the road ahead is long and far off the lights and appliances when you demands that each one of us do his/her from easy. Decades of stagnation, lack don’t need them. Set your air condition- part. So, start today, at this very mo- of investment and mismanagement ing thermostat higher in summer, low- ment, to help save Mother Earth and cannot be solved overnight. er in winter. Drive less, car pool, cycle, make it a better place for your families It is not enough to just rely on the pow- or walk when possible. Report leaks and future generations. er of Nature to repair the damage. We and spills no matter how small. Just be must act now. We are the guardians of on your own guard. Educate your fami- Op-Ed by Special Representative of the our planet. Action starts at home and ly and friends about the benefits of United Nations Secretary-General for in the workplace through water re- protecting the environment. Although Iraq Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert on source and waste management, conser- this country has vast natural energy International Mother Earth Day, 22 vation measures and a green plan that resources, renewable energy provides a April 2019 Volume 6, Issue 2 Culture Page 86 UNESCO Representative to Iraq, Paolo Fontani, met with the President of the Iraqi Sunni Endowment, Dr. Abdul Latif Al Heymem

Baghdad, 11 April 2019 - UNESCO UNESCO Representative also had a cational and cultural programmes in Representative to Iraq, Paolo Fontani, meeting with Dr. Abdul-Kareem Al- the country. The discussions were more met with the President of the Iraqi Faisal, Head of Prime Minister Adviso- focused on the various policy and opera- Sunni Endowment, Dr. Abdul Latif Al ry Commission (PMAC), and Dr. Hamid tional aspects of the programme to Re- Heymem to discuss ways to reinforce Ahmed, Deputy PMAC. vise the Spirit of Mosul which aims at an already excellent cooperation. The The meeting focused on the long stand- the restoration and reconstruction its rehabilitation of the Al Nouri Mosque ing cooperation between Iraq and historic landmarks as a tool to foster and the Al Hadba Minaret in Old City Unesco and some of the challenges fac- social cohesion and community recon- Mosul was among the main topics dis- ing implementation of UNESCO’s edu- ciliation. cussed. His Excellency Al Heymem and Mr Fontani both expressed their willing- ness to work closely together to ensure that the community of Mosul could soon receive back the symbols of their historical city. Other subjects discussed included the continue institution capacity building that Unesco is providing to the Sunni Endowment centre for the preservation of ancient manuscripts, and the important work that the Sunni Waqf of Iraq is doing to strengthen inter-religious understanding among Iraqi communities. The Director of UNESCO, accompanied by the representative of Sunni Endow- ment to UNESCO, Salim Saleh Mahdi, visited the Museum of the Biography of Prophet Mohamed and the Sunni Man- uscripts Center. UNESCO Representative to Iraq, Paolo Fontani, met the Minister of Culture and Minister of Higher Education in Baghdad

Baghdad, 14 April 2019 - The newly old city Baghdad; National Commission for UNESCO, appointed UNESCO Representative to Minister Al-Hamdani and Mr Fontani, also welcomed Mr Fontani to the coun- Iraq, Paolo Fontani, held a meeting discussed expectations from the im- try, and expressed the desire that the with the Minister of Culture, Ab- portant initiative to revive the spirit of cooperation with UNESCO in higher dulameer Al-Hamdani, in order to dis- Mosul, while alerting on some obstacles education could be significantly rein- cuss the opportunities and challenges and challenges that could arise. The forced, taking into account the priori- of a strong cooperation. The Minister necessity to communicate constantly ties of the ministry. welcomed Mr Fontani, to the country and transparently with the local com- Both ministers highlighted the im- and expressed the ministry’s keen in- munities was underlined. portance to reinforce UNESCO Office terest in working together with The Minister of Higher Education, in Baghdad UNESCO on Mosul, Basra and other Qusay Al-Suhail, also acting Minister important sites such as Babylon and of Education and Chairman of the Iraqi Volume 6, Issue 2 Culture Page 87 UNESCO and the German Government signed an agreement of the restoration and rehabilitation of the Aghawat Mosque Complex in the Old City of Mosul

Baghdad, 14 April 2019 - UNESCO stabilization and conservation plans in advance. As referenced previously and the German Government signed will be drawn up in cooperation with the overall objective (impact) is contrib- today an agreement to work together relevant partners. Phase II – Stabiliza- ute to the safeguarding of Mosul’s cul- for the stabilization, restoration and tion, Restoration and Rehabilitation. tural diversity both in terms of human rehabilitation of the Aghawat Mosque This stage will move to the implemen- fabric and cultural heritage, conceived Complex in the Old City of Mosul, as an tation of the stabilization, restoration as a significant and complementary element to safeguard Mosul’s enduring and rehabilitation of the mosque and project to the restoration and recon- cultural diversity. its immediate contextual landscape, struction of Al-Nouri Mosque and its UNESCO Representative to Iraq, Paolo based on the detailed plans drawn up minaret. Fontani, and German Ambassador, Cyrill Nunn, met to discuss cooperation in Iraq, and particularly the challenges related to the initiative Reviving the Spirit of Mosul, which UNESCO is car- rying out with the support of various partners, including Germany, the UAE and the European Union. The project will include two phases. Inception and Mobilization, with the clearance of the site talking all necessary precautions with respect to the safe removal of items from potentially contaminated landscape or structures (IED’s and ERW). This process will also ensure that surviving historic architec- tural elements of the building are care- fully removed where possible either to be appropriately re-used or stored for a potential future museum / educational usage. Documentation of the surviving structures will take place to internationally recognized standards, and detailed

Abu Dhabi Culture Summit: The restoration of Iraq’s Al Nuri Mosque is a symbol of hope for an embattled community

Baghdad, 17 April 2019 - Culture change. most significant Monuments of the Summit Abu Dhabi organized by the The Director of UNESCO Office in ancient city of Mosul and was a huge Department of Culture and Tourism of Baghdad, Paolo Fontani, was one of the part of the cultural identity of the peo- Abu Dhabi and five global partners, speakers at the Summit on a topic re- ple of Mosul. The Mosque and the min- including UNESCO, from 8-11 April, is lated to the role of heritage in post- aret were destroyed during the fights of a forum that convenes leaders from the crisis recovery and reconstruction. The 2017. Two years later, the people are fields of the arts, heritage, media, mu- Office is currently overseeing the recon- still struggling daily to slowly rebuild seums, public policy and technology to struction of Al Nouri Mosque in the all aspects of their lives, and recon- identify ways in which culture can historic city of Mosul, together with its struct what has been destroyed, includ- build bridges and promote positive Al Hadba Minaret, as well as two ing their cultural identities. churches as part of the “Revive the UNESCO’s obligations to protect and Spirit of Mosul Initiative”. The project preserve cultural heritage has broad- is funded by the UAE government. ened to include crisis response for those The panel discussion revolved around who have fallen victim to global conflict the underlining idea that rebuilding and violence. The Organization views heritage in post-conflict areas is at the culture and heritage as a means to- heart of both cultural and economic wards achieving economic development revival for nations. “Revive the Spirit of in war-stricken areas. “Human beings Mosul” is not about buildings, in fact, it require food, water and shelter in re- is about people.” said Paolo Fontani, sponse to crises.” Said Mr Fontani, “But “By rebuilding heritage, we wish to they also require intellectual, spiritual make culture an engine for social and and cultural drive that must be taken economic development.” into account in recovery and develop- The Al Nuri Mosque was one of the ment strategies.” Volume 6, Issue 2 Timeline Page 88 Architecture design arts showcased in Erbil

Erbil, 26 February 2019 - A group of why we chose a public place to show- tects,” stated Ms. Zhin Salahaddin, a Architecture students recently showcase our work,” said Mr. Muhammad third-year architecture student. “This cased their vision of a modern Kurdi- Surkew, a student and one of the or- exhibition will give us wider exposure,” stan Region through their designs and ganizers. she said. projects they displayed at an exhibition “Kurdish architects’ talents are no less Text and photo by UNAMI PIO Er- in Erbil. than the talents of world-famous archi- bil/Rashwan Salih. Hundreds of weekend visitors toured the exhibition, held at an Erbil shopping mall on 22 February, to view projects reflecting all aspects of modern facilities ranging from designs for business complexes, sky-scrapers, shopping malls, offices, recreational centres, mu- seums and art galleries. The exhibitors, a group of largely Sen- ior students from Salahaddin Universi- ty, Department of Architecture, were on hand to explain their work in details to the curious and interested visitors. The students say they wanted to show their talents while promoting Kurdish culture. “The aim of this project is to introduce local architecture design talents to the general public and this is Remembering United Nations personnel killed in the tragic Ethiopian Airlines crash

Baghdad, 11 March 2019 - The Unit- ed Nations flag at all offices around the world is being flown at half-mast today in memory of United Nations personnel killed in the tragic Ethiopian Airlines Crash. The United Nations in Iraq extends its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of all those who perished in the crash. May their souls rest in eternal peace.

Peace marathon held in Talafar

Talafar, 18 March 2019 - "What mat- other youth (aged 15-19) took part in a Japan, to promote volunteerism, active ters is that we are here together, trying peace marathon organized by the UN citizenship and social collaboration. to make Talafar a better place, nothing Migration Agency - IOM in Talafar, else,” said Hussein. He and hundred with support from the Government of Volume 6, Issue 2 Timeline Page 89 Message from the SRSG for Iraq, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, to the people of the Kurdistan Region and Iraqis as a whole, on the occasion of Nowruz

Baghdad, 21 March 2019 - Nowruz is Assembly in 2010 to promote values of sincerely hope that the spirit of Nowruz the time when many people around the peace and solidarity between and with- will continue to be present in Iraq to world enjoy renewed hope on the first in generations, communities and re- bridge differences and to promote a day of Spring and celebrate their cul- gions. collective sense of pride and confidence ture and identity. With this in mind, I would like to wish in the country. After all, Iraq needs a International Nowruz Day was pro- you - on behalf of the UN family in Iraq renewed sense of patriotism to re- claimed by the United Nations General - a happy and prosperous celebration. I emerge stronger. United Nations Secretary-General message on the International Day of Nowruz

New York, 21 March 2019 - For more For all of us, it is a chance to reaffirm The International Day of Nowruz is than 300 million people across the our commitment to peace, human celebrated in a spirit of friendship, rec- world, Nowruz is about new begin- rights and human dignity; to fostering onciliation and harmony. I offer best nings: the arrival of a new year; the dialogue and mutual respect; to protect- wishes to all who are marking this ob- first day of spring; the renewal of na- ing the planet and building a future servance. May the Nowruz holiday ture. that leaves no one behind. serve as an inspiration to us all. Celebrating Nowruz in Karbala Karbala, 21 March 2019 - “I am al- and social cohesion activities in Karba- tribute to lifting spirits among the dis- ways happy when we celebrate Nowruz, la camp with funds by Office of U.S. placed; the most popular activities are but this year is special because it has Foreign Disaster Assistance for Dis- courses like handicrafts and sewing. been four years since we left Telafar placed Persons. These activities con- and last celebrated Nowruz at home. Today we celebrate this special day with our relatives and displaced families in Karbala camp for displaced people, and we want to spread Nowruz’s message of hope and joy. All children are wearing the new clothes. Life moves on. We have cooked traditional dishes and planted trees outside every caravan,” said Maryam who displaced from Telafar in 2014. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) provided psychosocial SRSG Hennis-Plasschaert expresses deep sorrow at the loss of life in the Tigris River ferry disaster

Baghdad, 21 March 2019 - Special northern Iraq, today. day of Spring when many people were Representative of the UN Secretary- “This is a terrible tragedy. We express celebrating the Nowruz holiday. A thor- General for Iraq, Ms. Jeanine Hennis- our deep sorrow at the deaths. Our ough investigation will tell us what Plasschaert, expresses deep sorrow at hearts go out to the families and rela- exactly happened and why there was the loss of many lives after a ferry sank tives of the victims. It is equally tragic this loss of life.” in the River Tigris in the city of Mosul, that this disaster occurred on the first

The Secretary-General is saddened by the tragic loss of lives after a passenger ferry capsized today in the Tigris River

New York, 21 March 2019 - The Sec- families of the victims, the Government Secretary-General conveys the solidari- retary-General is saddened by the trag- and people of Iraq and wishes the in- ty of the United Nations with the Re- ic loss of lives after a passenger ferry jured a speedy recovery. public of Iraq as well as its readiness to capsized today in the Tigris River near This tragedy happens on the Nowruz support national assistance efforts as the Iraqi city of Mosul. The Secretary- holiday, when many across Iraq are needed. General extends his condolences to the celebrating the first day of spring. The Volume 6, Issue 2 Timeline Page 90

International Festival of Flowers opened in Baghdad

Baghdad, 15 April 2019 – Under the slogan “Baghdad plants flowers and embraces creativity” an International Festival of Flowers opened last night in Baghdad’s Al-Zawraa Park. The festival was launched by the Mayor of Baghdad, Dr. Thikra Alwash, in the presence of numerous representatives of the Iraqi authorities and the citizens of Baghdad. On behalf of UNAMI, the Deputy Spe- cial Representative for Iraq of the Unit- ed Nations Secretary -Ge ner al (DSRSG), Ms. Alice Walpole, attended the event and took the opportunity to stroll in the evening sunshine through the park, admiring the flower displays and visiting stalls. DSRSG Walpole was impressed by the colorful displays and by the evident enjoyment of local people making family outings in the much- improved security environment. It was also an opportunity for the Iraqi High Electoral Commission to highlight its ongoing campaign for registration for the provincial elections. At a booth on the festival grounds, IHEC distributed promotional and educational leaf- lets on how voters can register. Ms. Walpole, the DSRSG for political affairs and electoral assistance, commended such pro-active steps by the IHEC as the way forward in the campaign to urge voters to register in order to be able to participate in the elections.” Volume 6, Issue 2 Timeline Page 91 UN Special Representative Hennis-Plasschaert congratulates Yezidis on New Year, remembers victims of terrorism

Baghdad, 17 April 2019 – On the occasion of the Yezidi New Year, the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General (SRSG) for Iraq, Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, congratulates the Yezidi communities in Iraq and abroad. It is also an occasion to remember the victims of terrorism and conflict, including the women and children who were kidnapped by the terrorist Da’esh and remain missing. “The joy of celebrating will be incomplete without the return of the missing to their loved ones. It will remain incomplete without justice and accountability for the crimes committed against Yezidis. Efforts to win their release and bring the perpetrators of crimes committed against the community will continue unabated,” Ms. Hennis - Plasschaert said. The Special Representative said that the celebration this year and for many years to come is a testament of the Ye- zidis' resilience in spite of the systemat- ic attempts by the terrorists to destroy the Yezidi community and their way of life. “The Yezidi community has pre- vailed and will continue to flourish in a unified, democratic Iraq that embraces all of its diverse communities.”

Women’s economic empowerment is essential to promote women’s engagement in reconstruction and recovery of the country

New York, 13 February 2019 – At the meeting of the UN Women Execu- tive Board held in New York, UN Wom- en Iraq presented its work on capacity development, Women, Peace, and Secu- rity National Action Plan and humanitarian work in Iraq. Ms. Dina Zorba, head of UN Women in Iraq, stressed that Iraq national action plan for women’s economic empowerment is essential to promote women’s engagement in reconstruction and recovery of the country. Volume 6, Issue 2 Timeline Page 92

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) celebrates 40 years in Iraq

Baghdad, 17 April 2019 – Under the patronage of His Excellency the Minis- ter of Agriculture, the Food and Agri- culture Organization of the United Na- tions Representation in Iraq organized a celebration marking 40 years of FAO’s presence in Iraq. The celebration was held under the theme “Working Together to Achieve Zero Hunger.” Ever since Iraq joined FAO in 1945, the two sides enjoyed a history full of cooperation encompassing a wide range of fields that included response to emergencies, rehabilitation, and development, through provision of technical expertise, capacity building of staff and the supply of basic agricultural and food inputs, particularly during the difficult years of economic sanctions and wars. This year’s celebration aimed to enhance FAO’s cooperation with its main partners, in addition to unifying mentation of programmes and projects FAO, voicing appreciation of its role efforts to eliminating hunger, with the through which the transfer of new tech- and cooperation with Iraq over the past goal of ensuring food security for all. nologies, including fish culture with years and emphasizing readiness for In his speech at the ceremony, FAO floating cages, which he said has con- further cooperation in the future. Representative in Iraq Mr. Fadel El- tributed significantly in the provision of The celebration included a piece of the- Zubi underlined that since the estab- fish at lower prices. atre showcasing the rich history of lishment of its country office, the agen- Dr. Al-Hassani also referred to in his Mesopotamia. The piece, by Iraqi Fash- cy has been working to make its re- speech, which was delivered on his be- ion House, highlighted the history of sources and expertise meet the develop- half by his advisor Dr. Mahdi Al-Qaisi, Mesopotamia and means adopted by ment priorities of Iraq. to FAO’s contribution to the pro- old civilizations in achieving food secu- “FAO offers its assistance to beneficiar- gramme of artificial insemination of rity. ies in collaboration with the Ministries cows as well as buffalos, which was one The celebration was concluded with an of Agriculture, Water Resources and of the programmes implemented last exhibition of photos of FAO’s projects Health and Environment, as well as its year. and activities since its establishment, other partners, in accordance with its The minister also referred to FAO’s role in addition to an expo of Iraqi agricul- plans and programmes through invest- in fighting pests threatening date tural products. ment planning, rehabilitation and up- palms in Basra to prevent their spread The celebration was attended by repre- grading of agricultural research and to other areas as well as the agency’s sentatives of diplomatic missions, UN, extension of services, as well as veteri- contribution to ensuring regional coop- parliament and other international nary services and plant production and eration between Iraq and neighboring agencies, the public and private sectors protection,” Mr. El-Zubi said. countries. as well as the Ministry of Agriculture Mr. El-Zubi noted that FAO has been The minister offered his best wishes to employees. working to restore degraded agricultural land and ensure higher productivity of water resources in agriculture, focusing on the development of inter- ministerial agro-environmental information systems, strengthening of research institutes, support to service providers and irrigated farms to restore saline soils, strengthening stakeholder capacities in order to increase water productivity, and promoting sustainable land management practices in degraded areas. Minister of Agriculture Dr. Saleh Hus- sein Al-Hassani highlighted FAO’s role and its contributions to various sectors in Iraq. “Over the past years, FAO has contributed to the development of cadres of our ministry through the establishment of training opportunities and the imple-