UNAMI Herald

Volume 1, Issue 4 July - August 2014

Secretary-General Ban: “Existential threat can be overcome through the formation of a thoroughly inclusive government”

The Secretary-General ernment, and relations remarks to the Press between Iraq and Kuwait. These are very important Baghdad, 24 July 2014 - issues and challenges. I am very pleased to be I am profoundly worried back in Baghdad. This is about the violence engulf- my sixth visit as Secre- ing Iraq. I would like to tary-General to visit this express my strong support great country. I know this and solidarity for the peo- is a difficult, challenging ple of Iraq and your com- time. I wanted to be here mon struggle against ter- to underscore my full sup- rorism. armed groups. Any system- Iraqi people. They must port for your efforts to The violence has claimed atic attack that targets the find common ground to overcome divisions and thousands of lives and civilian population because advance the future of this build a secure, prosperous driven over one million of their ethnic background great country. I count on and peaceful Iraq for all. people from their homes or religious beliefs may all the leaders to show Let me begin by congratu- this year alone. well constitute a crime courage, wisdom, persis- lating the people of Iraq I am deeply saddened by against humanity. tence and vision for the for the general elections the senseless deaths of so I call on all sides to respect future. that were successfully many innocent Iraqis. I human rights standards I encourage Baghdad and held on April 30th. extend my deepest condo- and uphold international Erbil to work towards re- This constitutes the first lences to the families of humanitarian law. storing their partnership fundamental step in con- the victims of violence, All parties to the conflict and to jointly address the solidating the democratic terrorist attacks, and to must do their utmost to current security crisis. It is political process. the men and women of the ensure the protection of essential that disagree- ments over all outstanding This is particularly im- Iraqi Security Forces who civilians. Humanitarian issues be resolved within portant at a time of crisis, have died in the line of corridors should be estab- the framework of the Con- when all leaders need to duty. lished and honored by all stitution. work together to fight It is critical that all politi- parties. Prime Minister Maliki and terrorism and remove the cal leaders fulfill their The United Nations and its I also discussed relations responsibilities to ensure partners are working to seeds of sectarianism. with Kuwait. I commend that the government for- I extend my congratula- provide humanitarian sup- both countries for their mation process falls with- tions to the election of port to those displaced by commitment to continuing Speaker Salim al-Jubouri in the constitutional time- the fighting, wherever they to improve your relation- and Deputy Speakers Hai- table. may be. We will use the ship. dar al-Abadi and Aram Iraq is facing an existen- resources provided by our You have my commitment Sheikh Mohammed. I en- tial threat but it can be generous partners to bene- that the United Nations courage the parliamentary overcome through the fit all Iraqis affected by the will continue to stand by blocs to move swiftly to formation of a thoroughly conflict. Iraq and its people of all elect a new President and inclusive government -- a In this difficult time, it is communities. then a new Government government that can ad- important for all leaders to that can address the criti- dress the concerns of all fully engage in a meaning- The United Nations Assis- cal challenges ahead. communities, including ful and constructive dia- tance Mission, by my Spe- I have just had very good, security, political, social logue with one another, to cial Representative, very constructive meetings and economic matters. successfully counter terror- Nickolay Mladenov, who is with Prime Minister Mal- It must be a government ism, strengthen democratic here with us, is here to iki and the Acting Foreign in which all Iraqis, re- political processes and in- help Iraq resolve this crisis Minister. gardless of background, stitutions, respect the rule and return to its path of We reviewed the ongoing feel represented. of law and human rights, building a peaceful, stable, security crisis, the govern- I strongly condemn the and promote inclusive de- democratic and prosperous ment formation process, systematic and despicable velopment. future for all. relations between the Gov- persecution of minority Iraq’s leaders bear a clear Once again, you have my full support as you strive to ernment of Iraq and the populations by the Islamic responsibility to protect the move forward. Shukran. Kurdistan Regional Gov- State and associated security and welfare of all Volume 1, Issue 4 SG Visit Page 2 Ki-moon: “I strongly condemn these violations of fundamental universal human rights”.

Secretary-General remarks Islamic State and other to the Press armed groups should be exclusively conducted by Najaf, 24 July 2014 - the Iraqi Security Forces I am extremely honored to and only within the have met His Eminence framework of the Consti- Grand Ayatollah Al-Sistani tution. We also discussed today for the first time. the ongoing political process of government for- He is a man of the deepest mation. wisdom and tolerance. He is an inspiration and a role The parliament has now model for his many followers elected a new speaker, Dr. in Iraq and beyond. Salim al-Jubouri, a few days ago. I am pleased to We reviewed the current hear that Dr. Fouad Mas- crisis in Iraq and the neces- soum has been elected as sary humanitarian response. President of this great I expressed the United Na- country. I sincerely hope tions’ gratitude for His Emi- that under his leadership, nence’s support for all ef- an inclusive government forts to protect civilians in should be formed without the current conflict. delay and within constitutionally mandated time- was by his consistent calls elements of Iraqi society. We discussed in detail the lines. I had the honour of for all sides to refrain from I encourage all religious au- multiple reports of grave meeting him before we sectarian or ethnic rhetoric. thorities to follow that exam- human rights violations came here and I extend, I strongly welcome his cru- ple and stand up for toler- against civilians, places of on behalf of the United cially important appeal for ance, mutual respect and worship, religious leaders Nations, my most sincere all citizens to exercise the non-violence. and atrocities in the areas and heartfelt congratula- highest degree of restraint, Such calls would help silence controlled by the Islamic tions for his election as to work on strengthening the the voices of those who wish State. President of Iraq. We will bonds between each other to advance their own violent continue to work closely and avoid any kind of behav- and divisive agendas. Such The Security Council of the for peace, development iour that may affect the uni- appeals would contribute to United Nations and the rest and human rights of Iraq. ty of Iraq. the unity of the country. of the international commu- Once again, I was deeply nity have spoken out against A new government that is His Eminence and I agreed impressed by my time with these acts, loud and clear. truly inclusive will that political leaders must His Eminence. You can con- Here in Najaf, I once again, strengthen the unity of refrain from radical state- tinue to count on my full as Secretary-General of the the country, fight effec- ments and accusations. support along with the Unit- United Nations, strongly tively against terrorism In this time of crisis, when ed Nations as the people of condemn these violations of and ISIS, as well as up- we see the shocking treat- Najaf and all of Iraq work to fundamental universal hu- root the seeds of sectari- ment of minorities by the build a tolerant, peaceful and man rights. anism and division. Islamic State, His Eminence prosperous country for all its His Eminence underscored I expressed to His Emi- continues to preach peace, people. that the fight against the nence how deeply moved I love and unity among all Shukran. Volume 1, Issue 4 SG Visit Page 3 UN Secretary-General: “This crisis requires leaders in Erbil and leaders in Baghdad to work together to maintain the unity of the country”

Secretary-General remarks within the constitutional to the Press timetable. I am particularly worried Erbil, 24 July 2014 - about the unfolding secu- I am very pleased to be back rity crisis in Iraq. It has in Erbil again, for the second claimed thousands of time this year. lives, injured many more, I would like to congratulate and led to the displace- the Kurdistan Regional Gov- ment of over a million ernment and the people of people this year alone. I the Kurdistan Region of Iraq am deeply saddened by on holding of both the gover- the senseless deaths of so norate council elections and many Iraqi women, chil- the general elections last dren and men. April. I also welcome the The United Nations is Peshmerga Forces in their country within its federal new Kurdistan Regional following these develop- fight against terrorist system and remove the Government sworn in last ments with great concern. groups and their role in dangers of further tensions month. I extend my deepest con- protecting communities in and conflicts. I made these I extend my deepest congrat- dolences to the families of the north of Iraq, includ- points during my discus- ulations to the election of the victims of armed vio- ing in areas that border sions with President Bar- President Fouad Massoum of lence and terrorist at- the Kurdistan Region of zani and also Prime Minis- Iraq this afternoon. I sincere- tacks, and to the men and Iraq. ter [Nuri Al-] Maliki. ly hope that under the lead- women of the Iraqi Securi- I want to thank the Gov- I also encourage all politi- ership of President Mas- ty Forces and Peshmerga ernment of the KRG, Kur- cal leaders to promote par- soum, Iraq will make great Forces who have died in distan Regional Govern- ticipation to democratic progress in peace and stabil- the line of duty. ment, and the people of processes and institutions, ity and prosperity and har- I am outraged by reported the Kurdistan Region of respect for the rule of law, mony. threats against minorities Iraq for receiving so many human rights, and inclu- in Mosul and other parts of the newly-displaced, in sive development. I had the pleasure this morn- of Iraq currently con- addition to many Syrian Iraqi Arabs and Iraqi ing to meet the new Presi- trolled by the Islamic refugees. Kurds must work to restore dent just before he was elect- State, including an ulti- I highly appreciate the their partnership and joint- ed. I assured him of the matum to either convert, special role of the host ly solve the current securi- United Nation’s strong com- pay a tax, or leave, or face families and communities ty crisis. It is essential that mitment to work with the execution. who, despite their hard- disputes over outstanding people and Government of Equally repugnant are ships, have opened their issues, such as salaries, Iraq in the future under his reports that Turkoman, homes. security cooperation, budg- leadership. I sincerely hope Yazidis and Shabaks are I also commend President et and oil exports, be re- that the process of this form- facing abductions, killings Barzani and the KRG for solved within the frame- ing of new Government will or the destruction of their their ongoing support to work of the Constitution. be made swiftly. property, and that the internally displaced per- Leaders of Iraq must final- I also congratulate the new homes of Christians, Shia sons, as well as the close ly come together to shape a Speaker of Parliament, Hon- and Shabak residents in coordination with the shared vision for the future ourable Salim al-Jubouri, Mosul have been marked. United Nations. of this great country. I and Deputy Speakers, Hon- Any systematic attack on I encourage all to continue count on them, to show ourable Haidar al-Abadi and ethnic or religious minori- providing humanitarian courage, wisdom, persis- Aram Sheikh Mohammed. ties may constitute a access to those fleeing tence and vision. I had a very fruitful meeting crime against humanity. conflict. Limited access to today with His Excellency Those responsible must be Iraqis stranded in areas of The United Nations will President Massoud Barzani held accountable. heavy fighting could have continue to stand by the of the Kurdistan Region of I call on all parties to up- a disastrous impact on Government and the people Iraq. We reviewed the cur- hold international human those who need our pro- of Iraq. rent crisis in Iraq, the gov- rights and humanitarian tection most. The United Nations Assis- ernment formation process, law. In this difficult time, it is tance Mission in Iraq, UN- and the relationship between It is also important that important that all political AMI, led by my Special the Kurdistan Regional Gov- all sides allow humanitar- leaders exert maximum Representative, Mr. ernment and the Govern- ian assistance to reach all effort to engage in mean- Nickolay Mladenov, who is ment of Iraq. those in need. ingful and constructive here with me, will remain a We agreed that the challeng- A humanitarian corridor dialogue within the frame- strong partner with Iraq to es facing Iraq are critical. must be, should be estab- work of the Constitution. resolve the current crisis They require all political lished and honoured by all This crisis requires lead- and help [realize] a better leaders to ensure that the parties to the conflict. ers in Erbil and leaders in future for all of its people. government formation pro- I salute the courage of the Baghdad work together to Thank you. cess is concluded swiftly and Iraqi Security Forces and maintain the unity of the Volume 1, Issue 4 Post Elections 2014 Page 4

SRSG calls the new Council of Representatives to elect a Speaker and begin government formation process in line with the Constitution

Baghdad, 29 June 2014 – As the new- the election of a Speaker”, Mr. Mlade- ly elected Council of Representatives is nov continued. He added “once this is expected to convene on 1st July 2014, done, the Parliament should promptly the UN encourages all representatives elect a President and approve a new to attend the session to undertake their Government, as stipulated in the Con- constitutional duties. stitution. Any delay in the process, “The new Parliament should immedi- caused by a lack of quorum or unwill- ately engage in addressing the political, ingness to show compromise will be security, social and humanitarian con- detrimental to the country’s future”. cerns of all communities in Iraq”, the “Faced with a national crisis, the politi- Special Representative of the United cal leaders of Iraq should put the inter- Nations Secretary-General for Iraq ests of the country and its people before (SRSG) Mr. Nickolay Mladenov today everything else”, Mr. Mladenov con- said. cluded. “The first and most important step is

Mladenov calls for urgent agreement on electing a Speaker of Parliament

Baghdad, 1 July 2014 – The Special Mladenov said. “On April 30th the “I call upon all political leaders to set Representative of the United Nations people of Iraq came out to vote and aside their differences and, in a spirit of Secretary-General for Iraq (SRSG), Mr. elect a new Council of Representatives compromise, elect a Speaker during the Nickolay Mladenov, expresses his re- that is called upon to show national next session due to be held on 8 July gret that Iraq’s newly elected Council of unity and urgently address the vast 2014. This step will allow Parliament Representatives was not able to reach political, security, humanitarian and to elect a new President, move forward an agreement on naming a new Speak- social problems that face the country”, on the government formation process er today. he noted, adding that “any delay or and engage in resolving the legitimate failure to observe the deadlines set by concerns that various communities “Politicians in Iraq need to realize that the Constitution will be detrimental to have”, Mr. Mladenov emphasized. it is no longer business as usual”, Mr. the country’s integrity”.

UN envoy calls on political forces to reach agreement on the election of Speaker as soon as possible

Baghdad, 07 July 2014 – Over the last few days the Special Representa- tive of the United Nations Secretary- General for Iraq (SRSG), Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, has held discussions with a number of Iraqi political leaders and encouraged everyone to stay within the framework of the constitutional political process so that the Council of Rep- resentatives meets promptly. “I received assurances about the will- ingness of Iraqi political leaders to seek agreement and find solutions to the current crisis within the constitutional framework. The blocs in Parliament should limit the number of days for final negotiations, and work within constitutionally mandated timelines for the necessary nominations. The first step is the election of a Speaker of Par- liament, which should happen without unnecessary delays. The Iraqi people and the international community are closely watching the process”, Mr. Mladenov stated. Volume 1, Issue 4 Post Elections 2014 Page 5 Mladenov warns Iraq may plunge into chaos if Parliament fails to revive political process

Baghdad, 12 July 2014 – “I call on all “Iraq needs a team that can bring peo- “If serious solutions to the current parliamentarians to attend the forth- ple together. Now is not the time for problems are not found, then all politi- coming session of the Council of Repre- mutual accusations, now is the time for cal leaders will have to share their resentatives on Sunday, 13 July. Failing moving forward and compromising in sponsibility for failing to act with the to move forward on electing a new the interest of the Iraqi people. A func- necessary sense of duty at a time of Speaker, a new President, and a new tioning parliament will allow the coun- crisis”, Mr. Mladenov further stated. Government risks plunging the country try to work together against terrorism, “As political blocs seek agreement on into chaos. It will only serve the inter- revitalize the political process through the key personalities, the first step is ests of those who seek to divide the which the concerns of all communities the election of a new Speaker during people of Iraq and destroy their chances can be addressed, alleviate the humani- tomorrow’s scheduled parliament ses- for peace and prosperity”, the Special tarian suffering of over one million sion”, he underscored. Representative of the United Nations people, and ensure that human rights Secretary-General for Iraq (SRSG), Mr. and democratic achievements are pro- Nickolay Mladenov said today. tected”, he added.

SRSG welcomes election of Council of Representatives Speaker

Baghdad, 15 July 2014 – The Special and Mr. Aram Mohammed are a capa- restarting the democratic process in Representative of the United Nations ble team. I trust all political blocs will Iraq. I strongly encourage Iraqi politi- Secretary-General for Iraq (SRSG), Mr. support their efforts to find compromis- cal leaders to act with a sense of duty Nickolay Mladenov, presents his con- es and agreements on key legislation, and purpose, and to swiftly move for- gratulations to the Council of Repre- including the budget for 2014. UNAMI ward, by electing a new President, and sentatives on the election of a new stands ready to support their work”, forming a new Government”, the SRSG Speaker and Deputy Speakers. “Dr. Mr. Mladenov said. further added. Salim Al-Juburi, Dr. Haidar Al-Abadi “Today, an important step was taken in

UN Envoy and Grand Ayatollah Sistani call for swift government formation and a shared vision to rescue Iraq

Baghdad, 19 July 2014 - The Special “it is very important today for the vision in order to save Iraq from ter- Representative of the United Nations political and community leaders to rorism, sectarianism, and division”. Secretary-General for Iraq (SRSG), Mr. unite in the face of the current crisis “There are more than one million peo- Nickolay Mladenov, today met for more threatening Iraq’s integrity and social ple in Iraq who have lost their homes than two hours the Supreme Religious fabric”. as a result of the current conflict”, Mr. Authority in Najaf, Ayatollah Sayyed Mladenov said, adding that the Unit- Ali al-Sistani. Mr. Mladenov further stated “we are ed Nations is deeply concerned about “I have delivered to His Eminence in full agreement with His Eminence the systematic targeting of religious Grand Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani a letter on the need to expedite the govern- and ethnic minorities, which may from the United Nations Secretary- ment formation process and form a amount to crimes against humanity. General welcoming his support for the new government that is acceptable to The situation of displaced children protection of civilians in the current all communities. We urge all leaders and women, especially households conflict, and his stance against sectari- to refrain from radical statements and headed by women, remains particu- anism”, Mr. Mladenov said, adding that accusations and agree on a common larly volatile. Volume 1, Issue 4 Post Elections 2014 Page 6 SRSG welcomes President Talabani’s return

Baghdad, 22 July 2014 – The Special communities with the same vigour and to see its political leaders come together Representative of the United Nations enthusiasm that you have shown and compromise in the interest of all Secretary-General for Iraq (SRSG), Mr. throughout so many years”, Mr. Mlade- components of Iraq’s society”, Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, yesterday sent a nov also stressed. Mladenov said. letter to President Jalal Talabani, wel- The SRSG seizes the opportunity to coming his return to his homeland Iraq urge the political blocs in the Council of and wishing him a full and speedy re- Representatives to proceed without covery. delay with the election of President “Your homecoming could not be timeli- Talabani’s successor during its sched- er given the unprecedented challenges uled session of Wednesday, 23 July. facing Iraq at this critical juncture”, “At a time when parts of the country Mr. Mladenov wrote. are under the control of terrorist “Today, more than ever, Iraq needs groups, over one million Iraqis have your successor to take up the challenge been displaced and minorities are being of bridging the differences between uprooted from their homes, Iraq needs

SRSG congratulates newly elected President of Iraq, encourages swift government formation

the country together, and standing against terrorism. In his work he will have the full support of the United Na- tions”, Mr. Mladenov stated.

“Over the last weeks, the political blocs demonstrated that they can reach agreement, when they elected the Speaker of the Council of Representa- tives and his two deputies, and when they elected the President of the Re- public”, Mr. Mladenov said. “This mo- mentum must be seized by all parties”, Baghdad, 26 July 2014 – The Special as to the Council of Representatives he further stated. “I trust the Presi- Representative of the United Nations and to the people of Iraq. dent will, in consultation with the polit- Secretary-General for Iraq (SRSG), Mr. “Dr. Ma’soum is a highly respected ical blocs and entities, push the govern- Nickolay Mladenov, presents his con- leader who can restore dialogue among ment formation process forward in line gratulations to the newly elected Presi- all components of Iraqi society with the with the Constitutional timeline”, Mr. dent of Iraq, Dr. Fuad Ma’soum, as well goal of upholding democracy, bringing Mladenov stressed.

UN Envoy calls for swift formation of inclusive government

Baghdad, 6 August 2014 - Ahead of bringing the country together and the constitutional deadline for the nom- securing viable and sustainable solu- ination of a candidate for the post of tions to the grave challenges facing Prime Minister, the Special Repre- the country. Only by adhering to the sentative of the United Nations Secre- Constitution and upholding the demo- tary-General (SRSG) for Iraq, Mr. cratic process can the current life- Nickolay Mladenov, urged Iraq’s politi- threatening crisis be addressed, and cal leadership to set aside their differ- Iraq’s sovereignty and independence ences and to work together to swiftly secured”. form an inclusive government. “At this time of peril, Iraq cannot withstand any unconstitutional delay Mr. Mladenov stated: “I urge His Excel- in the nomination of a Prime Minis- lency President Fuad Ma’soum to per- ter, or a long and drawn-out govern- form his constitutional responsibilities ment formation process”, Mr. Mlade- to charge a Prime Minister-designate nov said. “I call upon Iraq’s political with the formation of a new Govern- leaders to rise to the challenges facing ment that should have wide parliamen- their nation and to fulfil their respon- tary approval and support from all Ira- sibilities as representatives of Iraq’s qi components. This is fundamental to citizens”, he stressed. Volume 1, Issue 4 Post Elections 2014 Page 7 UN Envoy calls on political leaders to respect the constitutional responsibilities of the President of Iraq

Baghdad, 11 August 2014 —The Spe- with the Constitution and the demo- liament to decide who that bloc is”, the cial Representative of the United Na- cratic political process”, Mr. Mladenov SRSG added. tions Secretary-General (SRSG) for said. He also called on all Iraqis to exercise Iraq, Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, expresses “I trust that, in line with his constitu- restraint at this dangerous time and his grave concern over the latest politi- tional obligation, he will ask the largest noted that the Security Forces should cal developments in Iraq and calls on bloc to nominate a candidate for Prime refrain from actions that may be seen political leaders to respect the constitu- Minister who can establish a broad- as interference in matters related to tional responsibilities of the President. based and inclusive government that is the democratic transfer of political au- “The President of Iraq, Dr. Fuad Ma- acceptable to all components of Iraqi thority. soum, is undertaking his duties in line society. It is up to the Members of Par- UN Envoy welcomes PM nomination, urges swift formation of inclusive government

Baghdad, 11 August 2014 - The Spe- “The President of the Republic has ful- prosperity and democracy”, Mr. Mlade- cial Representative of the United Na- filled his role in accordance with the nov said. tions Secretary-General (SRSG) for provisions of the Constitution and “I urge all political leaders to work Iraq, Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, today asked the nominee of the largest politi- within the framework of the Constitu- welcomed the decision of the President cal bloc to form a government. This tion and show moderation in their of Iraq, Dr. Fuad Masoum, to accept the step is in line with the Constitution and statements and actions. The Iraqi Se- nomination of the largest bloc in Parlia- the democratic political process. It is curity Forces should refrain from ac- ment, Dr. Haider al-Abbadi, as prime important now for all political groups in tions that may be seen as interference minister-designate, who should now Parliament to cooperate in forming an in matters related to the democratic undertake the formation of a new gov- inclusive government that reflects the transfer of political authority”, the ernment. wishes of the Iraqi people for security, SRSG added.

SG concerned that heightened UN Envoy welcomes efforts by Secretary-General commends political tensions coupled with Prime Minister Maliki to the decision of Prime Minister the security threat of “Islamic ensure a peaceful transition of Nouri al-Maliki to withdraw State” could lead the country authority his candidature into even deeper crisis

New York, 11 August 2014 - The Baghdad, 14 August 2014 - The Spe- New York, 14 August 2014 - The Sec- Secretary-General welcomes the for- cial Representative of the United Na- retary-General commends the decision ward movement toward government tions Secretary-General (SRSG) for of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki to formation in Iraq. Iraq, Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, today withdraw his candidature and his He also commends Iraqi President welcomed the decision of Nouri al- pledge to support Mr. Haider al-Abbadi Fuad Massoum for having charged Maliki to support the nomination by as nominee to succeed him. This will Dr. Haider al-Abbadi, in accordance President Fuad Masoum of Dr. Haider allow the crucial process to form a new with the the Iraqi Constitution, with al-Abbadi to form a new government. government to proceed swiftly and the formation of a new government. “The decision of Mr. Maliki to allow the within the time frame provided for in He encourages Dr. al-Abbadi, Prime formation of a new government to pro- the Constitution. Minister-designate, to form a broad- ceed without further delay demon- based government acceptable to all strates statesmanship and a commit- He acknowledges Mr. al-Maliki’s deci- components of Iraqi society, in ac- ment to the democratic process and the sion as a demonstration of his commit- cordance with the constitutional Constitution. It will allow for another ment to the orderly transfer of power in time-frame. historic milestone — the peaceful tran- the best interest of the country. The Secretary-General is concerned sition of authority in a country that has that heightened political tensions been through too much bloodshed and The Secretary-General urges all politi- coupled with the current security violence”, Mr. Mladenov said. cal leaders in Iraq to build on this his- threat of “Islamic State” (IS) could toric opportunity by redoubling their lead the country into even deeper “I urge all political blocs in Parliament, efforts to work together so as to build crisis. He strongly urges all political as well as the people of Iraq, to work consensus on how to address the many parties and their supporters to re- together to restore the unity of the urgent and grave challenges facing main calm and respect the political country and stand-up to the threats their country. process governed by the Constitu- posed by terrorism, sectarianism and tion. The people of Iraq deserve to division”. He looks forward to the swift formation live in a safe, prosperous and stable “I thank Prime Minister Maliki for his of an inclusive, broad-based govern- country – one that all groups in Iraq, consistent support for the work of the ment ready to immediately tackle these including religious and ethnic minor- United Nations over the years and look pressing issues. ities, can meaningfully contribute to forward to continuing to work with him and feel as their own. in the future”, the SRSG added. Volume 1, Issue 4 Humanitarian crisis Page 8 UN responds to humanitarian emergency in Sinjar, prepares extensive emergency response

Baghdad, 7 July 2014 – A United have already supplied emergency medi- Nations team, composed of UNICEF cal kits, but the area suffers from an specialists yesterday led its second hu- acute shortage of medical personnel manitarian mission to Sinjar, in west- and capacity. ern Ninewa, where an estimated 8,000 “The displaced families in Sinjar are families have fled from neighbouring surviving in extremely dire conditions Tal Afar. The first mission was con- and have immense and urgent humani- ducted on 28 June. tarian needs”, the Special Representa- “The most immediate humanitarian tive of the United Nations Secretary- need is to prevent the spread of in- General for Iraq (SRSG), Mr. Nickolay creased incidence of diarrheal diseases Mladenov said. “In order to provide due to overcrowding, poor hygienic con- immediate life-saving protection and ditions and the usage of unsafe water, humanitarian assistance to the IDPs, with limited availability of potable wa- the United Nations is preparing an ter”, said UNICEF Iraq Representative, extensive emergency response that will Dr. Marzio Babille, who underlined ensure that adequate services and sup- that up to 35,000 children are among port are provided, including the provi- the Internally Displaced People (IDPs). sion of drinking water and water truck- “Children under the age of 5 are the ing, distribution of goods, rehabilitation most vulnerable to these diseases, he of wells and warehousing”, he also stat- added, saying that UNICEF and WHO ed.

UN Humanitarian Coordinator visits the Governorate of Dohuk and the Garmawa transit site

Garmawa, 9 July 2014 – Dr. Jacquel- Dohuk Governorate is making for the (NGOs), are rapidly scaling up in the ine Badcock, Deputy Special Repre- IDPs during her meeting with Gover- face of this unfortunate challenge. sentative of the United Nations Secre- nor, Mr. Ferhad Jameel Atrushy, and Food, water, tents and other essential tary-General (DSRSG) for Iraq and shared her deep concern about the hu- and medical supplies are reaching fam- Resident and Humanitarian Coordina- manitarian situation. ilies in need, additional staff are being tor, visited today the Governorate of “The worsening security situation in mobilized, and emergency funds are Dohuk as well as the Garmawa transit parts of northern and central Iraq has being released”. site for Internally Displaced Persons caused mass internal displacement The UN is closely working with central, (IDPs). Dohuk has seen an influx of across much of the country”, said Dr. regional and local governments to ad- over 200,000 displaced people in the Badcock, adding that “the United Na- dress the dire living conditions of the last two weeks. tions and its partners, international IDPs, and the burden on host communi- Dr. Badcock commended the efforts the and non-governmental organizations ties that are supporting the displaced.

Secretary-General expresses deep United Nations welcomes $10 million donation from Kuwait for gratitude to the Government of humanitarian aid in Iraq the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for their generosity in contributing Geneva 9 July 2014 - The United Relief Coordinator. US$500 million Nations Office for the Coordination of The latest upsurge in violence in Iraq Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) today has affected 1.5 million people. An esti- New York, 1 July 2014 - The Secre- welcomed the generous contribution of mated 1.2 million have been internally tary-General expresses deep grati- US$9.5 million from the State of Ku- displaced since the beginning of the tude to the Government of the King- wait to UN humanitarian agencies and year. People are in urgent need of wa- dom of Saudi Arabia for their gener- the International Organization for Mi- ter, food, shelter, healthcare, sanitation osity in contributing US$500 million gration (IOM) responding to the deteri- and protection from violence. to the United Nations for life-saving orating humanitarian crisis in Iraq. humanitarian assistance to people in An additional $500,000 from Kuwait Iraq. The Secretary-General has been allocated to the Kuwait Red acknowledges the leadership and Crescent Society and the International initiative of the Custodian of the Two Islamic Charity Organisation. Holy Mosques, His Highness King “The State of Kuwait’s timely contribu- Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz. tion of $10 million for humanitarian aid The Secretary-General welcomes the to Iraq is welcome and will help us timely funding, which will enable the scale up our efforts to provide aid to United Nations and its partners to displaced families and host communi- support the millions of Iraqi men, ties,” said Valerie Amos, the United women and children whose lives Nations Under-Secretary-General for have been torn apart by the conflict. Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Volume 1, Issue 4 Humanitarian crisis Page 9 IOM locates and identifies needs of more than 370,000 newly displaced people in Iraq 04 July 2014, Iraq - With security in sponse. shelter and health care for children are Iraq continuing to deteriorate, IOM “Fighting and hundreds of road blocks also among the top priorities. field teams have delivered emergency are preventing us from reaching the “Twenty days ago, my house was com- assistance and are gathering infor- majority of the displaced and from pletely destroyed. All I have today is mation on the needs and locations of them reaching us to receive aid,” said what IOM has given us. I am almost 50 large numbers of displaced people. Be- Lado Gvilava, IOM Programme and and for most of my life, all we have had cause of the ongoing fighting, the teams Logistic Coordinator in Iraq. here has been war. I would like to go are unable to reach some areas of the Access is almost impossible in the gov- back to my city and rebuild my home, governorates of Ninewa, Salah al-Din, ernorates of Diyala, Salah al-Din, Kir- but I am afraid that we will not have Baghdad and Diyala, epicenters of the kuk, Ninewa as well as in Bagdad, ex- peace for a long time,” said Faisal, who violence in the country. cept for some districts. Insecurity is fled Salah Al-Din to the Khazir Transit IOM has mapped and identified the also preventing IOM Rapid Assessment camp with his 14 children. needs of 375,354 newly displaced peo- and Respond Teams in the field from IOM data reveals that the majority of ple in 390 locations in Iraq during June reaching all the displaced people by the the displaced have found refuge in their alone and distributed non-food items to recent fighting. governorate of origin. Ninewa, Salah 17,340 people located in the gover- “Dangerous security conditions and al-Din and Diyala host no displaced norates of Ninewa, Erbil and Sulay- subsequent lack of access to wide areas people identified as having displaced maniah. means that we cannot get to locations from other governorates. Eighty-three The most pressing needs of the dis- which we know have received displaced per cent of the displaced people in placed are for essential items such as populations,” said Vlatko Avramovski, Ninewa have chosen to stay in their clothes, coolers and household items, IOM Human Mobility Tracking Expert. governorate. including basic furniture, and 73 per IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix The vast majority (53 per cent) of those cent of the population requires food (DTM), is used to collect and share up- displaced are from the governorate of support. Needs for shelter and health dated information on the type of shelter Ninewa while 40 per cent of displaced care for children are also top priorities. and access to basic services of the dis- are from the governorate of Salah al- Despite major disruption caused by placed people to all the humanitarian Din, 3 per cent from Diyala and the ongoing security threats, IOM is also agencies in Iraq to help them plan their rest from Baghdad, Babylon and Kir- coordinating with several embassies to responses. kuk. assist in the evacuation of third- The data collected by IOM shows that Families fleeing across governorate country nationals stranded inside Iraq. the most pressing priority for the dis- borders went mostly in the northern IOM is currently facilitating the evacu- placed is non-food items, followed close- governorates of the Kurdish Region of ation of seven Nepalese nationals in ly by food items. Eighty-six per cent of Iraq (Erbil, Sulaymaniyah and Dahuk), Kirkuk. the population identified is in need of resulting in very few families remain- IOM’s main focus is gathering and veri- essential items such as clothes, coolers ing in the south of the country. fying information on the location and and household items, including basic For the complete IOM report dated 2 needs of the displaced in order to in- furniture, and 73 per cent of the popu- July 2014, please go to: form the ongoing humanitarian relation requires food support. Needs for http://iomiraq.net/dtm-page

IOM Director General visits IOM operations in Iraq’s Kurdish Region

Erbil, 11 Jul 2014 - IOM Director General William Lacy Swing is today ending a three-day visit to review IOM’s operations in northern Iraq and meet with Kurdish leaders and partner agencies struggling to cope with the influx of thousands of people displaced by the conflict in neighbouring Iraqi governorates. In Kalak, 50 km from the Kurdish regional capital of Erbil, he joined local mayor Khalid Aziz Karim at an prove inter-agency cooperation to help to provide relief that addresses the IOM distribution of IOM non-food aid, vulnerable internally displaced persons most urgent needs of displaced families WFP food and UNICEF hygiene pack- (IDPs). across Iraq through the distribution of ages to 200 displaced families, who Since clashes broke out on June 6th in 50,000 non-food (NFI) aid kits and told him about their daily struggle to Mosul, the second largest city in Iraq, 6,750 shelter units. survive. violence has quickly spread to other It will also implement programmes to In Erbil Ambassador Swing met with areas of the country causing massive combat tuberculosis, provide income Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) population displacement. So far, IOM generation training, develop renewable Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani, has distributed relief packages to over energy infrastructure, and develop a Head of Foreign Relations Falah Mus- 25,000 people forced to flee their variety of other quick impact projects tafa and Minister of the Interior Ka- homes. (QIPs) that directly benefit internally rim Sinjari. He also met senior UN Over the next six months, IOM will displaced families and their host com- officials to discuss how to further im- expand its programming and continue munities. Volume 1, Issue 4 Humanitarian crisis Page 10 High Commissioner for Refugees calls for urgent political solution to Iraq’s deepening crisis Erbil, 18 July 2014 — The High Com- missioner for Refugees, António Gu- terres warned today that Iraq “risks moving into full-fledged sectarian war and complete fragmentation” as Iraqis continue to flee their homes and minority groups are trapped and targeted. Iraqi politicians and the international community are “running out of time to act,” he said. In high-level talks in Baghdad on Wednesday, he urged leaders to move urgently to reach a political solution and to “seize this last chance to bring Mr. Guterres noted the influx of more place to go.” everyone together in a non-sectarian than 225,000 Syrian refugees and over Mr. Guterres visited Iraq to pay respect approach. Otherwise, we risk a true 300,000 newly displaced Iraqis is hav- to the internally displaced, Syrian refu- sectarian war,” he said encouraging ing a dramatic on the economy and gees and their host communities and regional and global governments to society. He appealed to the internation- show his solidarity during the Muslim provide support. “Countries with influ- al community to “enhance support to holy month of Ramadan. He spoke of ence also need to constructively work the government & people in the Kurdi- his concerns for all Iraqis, especially towards a solution,” he added. “This is stan region in this very difficult mo- minorities, who are at risk. “Everybody a threat to everybody – nobody is safe.” ment.” “The Middle East is in flames,” needs to be protected,” he said. Mr. Guterres saw first-hand the dire he said. ‘Kurdistan represents one of “Everybody seeking access should be conditions facing some of the more than the few stable areas where protection given refuge without discrimination. 650,000 Iraqis displaced from their can be granted.” Everybody deserves to be safe.” homes by conflict since January. At the The High Commissioner recognized the He said he was “impressed by the com- Khazair transit camp midway between forthcoming $500 million contribution mitment by the President and Prime the Iraqi cities of Erbil and Mosul, he of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will Minister of the Kurdistan Region of walked the dusty paths between some help the UN provide critical humani- Iraq to “maintain a policy of open bor- 500 tents provided by UNHCR where tarian aid to Iraqis. “Others need to ders and doors to all people in need of Iraqi Shiites, Sunnis and others are come forward to help Kurdistan cope help regardless of ethnicity or religion. now living. with this terrible challenge,” he said. This attitude of tolerance and openness On Friday, the High Commissioner has an important symbolic meaning at travelled to the new Arbat refugee a time when we need to avoid at all cost camp in the northern city of Sulay- a sectarian civil war in Iraq.” maniyah. There, more than 3000 Syri- He was blunt in his assessment of what ans who fled civil war have found a UNHCR and the broader humanitarian temporary home. Of almost three mil- community can accomplish in this cri- lion Syrian refugees, 225,000 are in sis, “What we do is minimize suffering. Iraq. Speaking the well-constructed There is no humanitarian solution for camp, Mr. Guterres called the Kurdi- this tragic humanitarian crisis. There stan region of Iraq “an oasis of stabil- is no way humanitarians can clean up ity” and he said, “without Kurdistan, the mess made by politicians. What many people fleeing would have no they really need is peace.”

UN is moving urgently needed humanitarian assistance to families who fled Mosul

Baghdad, 20 July 2014 – The Special of the hundreds of minority families bourhoods of Mosul were reported flee- Representative of the United Nations from Mosul, forced to flee their homes ing the city. Some have gone to al-Qosh Secretary-General for Iraq (SRSG), because of their ethnic or religious sub district, others to Bartala or Qara- Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, strongly con- background”, Mr. Mladenov said, add- qosh. The UN has accounted for a total demns the persecution of minority ing that “the United Nations will deliv- of 400 families arriving at 6 different religious communities, including er humanitarian assistance to those locations in Dohuk and Erbil this morn- Christians, Shia, Shabak, Turkmen or families, wherever they are”. ing. UNICEF, WHO, WFP, UNHCR Yazidis in Mosul and the Ninewa and IOM, are now preparing a response province, following disturbing reports “The UN Humanitarian teams are for 700 more families expected in Erbil that members of these communities closely cooperating with the Kurdistan city. Additional supplies are being mo- have come under direct attack and Region Government, as well as with bilized to not only respond to this new persecution by the Islamic State of non-government agencies to aid those wave of displacement but also to sup- Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), and associ- hundreds of thousands of displaced port those hosting them, who despite ated armed groups. people in the KRG”, Mr. Mladenov fur- having little themselves are extending “The United Nations reiterates its ther stated. their help as they can. Food and non- commitment to rapidly respond to the Over the last few days, increasing num- food packages have immediately been shocking displacement and the needs bers of families from different neigh- provided. Volume 1, Issue 4 Humanitarian Crisis Page 11 UN taking steps for dignified sheltering of IDPs in Sulaymaniyah Governorate

Sulaymaniyah, 23 July, 2014 – The Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq (DSRSG), and Resident and Hu- manitarian Coordinator, Dr. Jacqueline Badcock paid a two-day visit to the Sulaymaniyah Governorate, for an assessment mission in the city of Cham- chamal, which hosts more than 1.500 displaced families. Following her visit to one of the temporary shelters, Dr. Badcock acknowl- edged that the Government of Iraq’s and the Kurdistan Region Govern- and local governments, the dire living ongoing armed conflict”, affirming that ment’s capacity to adequately and rap- conditions of the Internally Displaced “the United Nations, in partnership idly respond to the increased needs of People (IDPs), and the burden on host with the authorities and Non- the affected populations has been communities that are supporting Governmental Organizations, are tak- quickly overwhelmed. “Many communi- them”. ing steps to urgently secure dignified ties were already living in poverty with solutions to the displaced people in the very few resources to deal with econom- Dr. Badcock further stated that “The United Nations is extremely thankful form of temporary shelters where af- ic disruption and displacement” she fected populations will be provided with said, underlining that “with the gener- to the Governorate and to the people of Sulaymaniyah for their generous hospi- housing, security, access to public ser- ous support from donors, among which vices, freedom of movement and a se- the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Unit- tality to the thousands of IDPs who were forced to flee their homes in the cured peaceful environment with host ed Nations is enabled to address, in communities. close cooperation with central, regional Ninewa Governorate because of the Immediate, safe and unhindered humanitarian access is now needed

ERBIL, 31 July 2014 – The United than 230,000 Syrian refugees. Between south, while others remain trapped in Nations has expressed concern over January and June this year, 5,500 peo- active conflict zones and in need of ur- rising levels of violence and instability ple have been killed and 12,000 injured. gent humanitarian assistance. across Iraq and its impact on the lives Almost 900 people have been killed in In many cases, basic services have been of everyday citizens. July alone. targeted, including health facilities, “Immediate, safe and unhindered hu- Many of the newly displaced have fled water supplies and power grids, creat- manitarian access is now needed,” Dr. to Kurdish-controlled areas or the ing additional, unnecessary suffering to Jacqueline Badcock, the Deputy Special the civilian population. Representative of the United Nations “Civilians must be guaranteed that Secretary-General for Iraq (DSRSG), they can leave areas affected by the and Resident and Humanitarian Coor- violence in dignity and safety with their dinator, said. “We urgently need to right to access humanitarian assistance deliver lifesaving assistance and re- respected,” Ms. Badcock said. store basic services to conflict-affected “The UN and humanitarian partners communities, as well as new and exist- are ready to assist, but to do so all paring IDPs and refugees, irrespective of ties to the conflict must agree to stop their religion, ethnicity or affiliation.” the hostilities and guarantee the safe More than 500,000 people have been and unimpeded access of humanitarian displaced since June, bringing the total staff and goods to communities in this year to 1.4 million, including more need,” she said.

UN prepares humanitarian corridor as envoy calls on leaders to put Iraq’s interests ahead of their personal aspirations

Baghdad, 8 August 2014 - The humanitarian corridor to allow those in interests ahead of their personal aspi- Special Representative of the United need to flee the areas under threat”, rations. I urge all to urgently resolve Nations Secretary-General (SRSG) Mr. Mladenov said. their differences and refrain from en- for Iraq, Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, “I welcome the cooperation between the couraging or using public gatherings today welcomed the call by the UN Government of Iraq, the Kurdistan and protests to advance their goals. Security Council for the internation- Regional Government and the interna- The Council of Representatives should al community to support Iraq and to tional community to help prevent geno- finalize, as soon as possible, the process help alleviate the suffering of the cide and fight terrorism”, the SRSG of nominating a Prime Minister, who population affected by the current added. can get wide parliamentary support conflict. “Iraq continues to be in the midst of a and bring the country together”, Mr. “Now that air drops have started, the life threatening crisis. It is time for Mladenov further added. UN in Iraq is urgently preparing a political leaders to put the country’s Volume 1, Issue 4 Humanitarian Crisis Page 12 UN Envoy: “We are responding to the sudden influx of displaced into the KRG and bordering areas” Baghdad, 10 August 2014 – The Spe- In the past few days, various UN Agen- medical supplies to cover the needs of cial Representative of the United Na- cies have responded as follows: up to 150,000 people. UNFPA is also tions Secretary-General (SRSG) for · World Food Programme setting up mobile clinics to provide Iraq, Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, today (WFP) has distributed over 1,600,000 reproductive health services, including said that “As a result of fighting be- meals in Dahuk Governorate. maternal health care and support for tween ISIS and Peshmerga forces in · United Nations High Commis- safe delivery. northern Iraq, hundreds of thousands sioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has · World Health Organization of people have been forced from their reached over 170,000 displaced people (WHO) has supported the health au- homes and are in urgent need of life- through distributions of core relief thorities to provide displaced popula- saving assistance”. items (tents, blankets, mattresses, tions with primary health care, immun- While the situation remains fluid and buckets, etc.) in northern and central ization, referral services, mobile health numbers cannot be independently veri- Iraq. UNHCR is also continuing to services at check points and camps. fied, thousands of families, many of provide shelter and protection to tens of “The UN will continue to do what it can them women, children and elderly, are thousands of displaced persons as well to provide relief to those who have fled now trapped on Mount Sinjar. At the as to the existing 230,000 Syrian refu- with little but the clothes they are same time, over the past few days more gees. wearing. The situation is unlikely to than 150,000 people have made their · United Nations Children’s change in the foreseeable future and way to Dahuk Governorate in the Kur- Fund (UNICEF) has distributed drink- the UN will work with both the Central distan region or to disputed border are- ing water, rapid response packages, and Regional government to meet the as inside Ninewa Governorate. Thou- blankets and rehydration salts to man- needs of the hundreds of thousands sands more have fled across the border age cases of diarrheal diseases. In ad- already displaced and make prepara- into Syria and are now reported to be in dition, high energy biscuits to approxi- tions to receive many more who will camps there. mately 34,000 children under five years arrive over the next few days”, SRSG SRSG Mladenov said that “the UN has old were also distributed. It is also Mladenov added. mobilized its resources to assist the providing support to unaccompanied Kurdistan Regional Government children. WFP and Japan relief (KRG), which is overwhelmed by the · United Nations Population distribution to IDPs in Erbil large influx of the displaced”. He com- Fund (UNFPA) has distributed essen- mended the KRG for their efforts to tial hygiene supplies and clothing to Erbil, 23 July 2014 - Infants, young meet the basic needs of the displaced. over 1,300 pregnant women as well as children, women, men, and the elderly taking refuge in a church in Erbil, Kur- distan Region-Iraq, recently received WFP, UNHCR pledge to support Dahuk lifesaving relief rations funded by the Governorate in meeting needs of the displaced Government of Japan (GoJ). A Japa- nese delegation led by Mr. Takao August 12, 2014 - In the face of an gency items and protection monitoring MAKINO, Parliamentary Vice-Minister ever-growing humanitarian crisis for tens of thousands amongst the new- for Foreign Affairs, met with IDPs and across northern Iraq, the UN yester- ly displaced population, and technical witnessed distribution of immediate day reinforced its commitment to support in camp development. In the response rations provided by the World assisting the hundreds of thousands past week alone UNHCR has distribut- Food Programme (WFP). This was only who have been displaced by violence. ed 8,200 emergency kits, 3,800 family made possible with the excellent part- The situation Dahuk is of grave con- tents, and 20,000 mattresses and blan- nership between WFP and the GoJ, cern to WFP and UNHCR. Meeting kets across Dahuk governorate, in Ba- which provided USD 1.7 million to with the Governor of Dahuk, Farhad jet Kandela and Garmawa. UNHCR is WFP to provide immediate relief assis- Atrushi, whose province has seen an also supporting the government in pre- tance to displaced Iraqis due to the influx of more than 200,000 people paring camp sites for the displaced in ongoing conflict. WFP will be providing since ISIL overran swathes of north- Zahko and Shariya. 29,600 lifesaving immediate response ern Iraq, World Food Programme rations to new arriving IDPs. This will Iraq Country Director Jane Pearce UNHCR is also leading the United Na- be follow by regular relief distribution. and UNHCR Iraq Country Repre- tions response for Dahuk’s Syrian refu- Partnership and confidence of the Gov- sentative Shoko Shimozawa pledged gee population of almost 100,000, work- ernment and people of Japan has ena- to support the Dahuk governorate in ing closely with the government. bled WFP to respond to the needs of its considerable efforts to meet the The WFP’s Jane Pearce noted the im- displaced persons in Iraq. needs of displaced Iraqis who have portance of broad collaboration in the poured into Dahuk in recent months. response. “We already have effective “This is a critical time for Dahuk, the and productive coordination between Kurdistan region of Iraq, and Iraq the Dahuk government and humanitar- itself,” said UNHCR’s Shoko ian agencies, and we welcome the op- Shimozawa, “We must continue to portunity to build on that crucial rela- build on the robust emergency re- tionship.” sponse to date. The needs are ex- Both Pearce and Shimozawa pledged to panding, and the government and reach out to global donors to highlight people of Dahuk require all assis- the needs in Dahuk, not only for the tance we can provide. displaced, but for host communities UNHCR is providing shelter, emer- who’ve been such generous neighbours. Volume 1, Issue 4 Humanitarian Crisis Page 13 UN declares a ‘Level 3 Emergency’ for Iraq to ensure more effective humanitarian response Baghdad, 13 August 2014 – The tens of thousands of displaced Iraqis. cartons of emergency food rations, 500 cartons of high protein food supple- United Nations have declared a ‘Level 3 “Declaring the crisis in Iraq a ‘Level 3 ments, 40 boxes of oral rehydration Emergency’ for Iraq. “Given the scale Emergency’, which represents the high- solution and 15 climatized 72 square and complexity of the current humani- est level of humanitarian crisis, will meter tents for emergency shelter. tarian catastrophe, this measure will help trigger more resources and expe- With its partners and local authorities, facilitate mobilization of additional dite administrative procedures for the UNICEF has delivered aid to 73,000 resources in goods, funds and assets to response”, Mr. Mladenov underlined. children, women and their families, ensure a more effective response to the Three other crises in the world are cur- distributed 34,000 high energy biscuits humanitarian needs of populations rently sharing the same emergency for children under five, and is also affected by forced displacements”, the status: Syria, South Sudan and the providing support to displaced children Special Representative of the United Central African Republic. Nations Secretary-General for Iraq who have been separated from their (SRSG), Mr. Nickolay Mladenov said. In the past few days, various UN Agen- families. cies have responded as follows: “The situation of displaced people on · WHO continues supporting Sinjar Mountain remains of critical · UNCHR has reached 166,000 local health authorities in the field, concern, where tens of thousands of people with protection monitoring with two mobile health teams on people are reportedly still trapped, with across Iraq. Since 1st August, it pro- Mount Sinjar and emergency relief at health conditions quickly deteriorat- vided shelter and relief items such as Pesh Khabur, where 16 ambulances are ing”, said UNICEF Representative to hygiene products, mattresses, blankets, transporting those arriving, and mobile Iraq, Marzio Babille, who also con- stoves and plastic sheeting to 30,000 clinics providing emergency health care firmed that UNICEF and other human- people in the Kurdistan region, includ- to the displaced across Dahuk Gover- itarian actors are stepping up efforts to ing those escaping Mount Sinjar. UN- norate. HCR is distributing mattresses, blan- meet the growing needs of those who · UNFPA is working with local kets, emergency relief kits, household are being extracted from Sinjar Moun- authorities and partners to distribute items and hygiene kits to locations in tain, in addition to helping meet the hygiene supplies and clothing to over Dohuk, Zakho, Akre, Shekhan, Khanke needs of a further 12,000 displaced 1,300 pregnant women as well as medi- and the village of Bajet Kandela Christians who are now sheltering in cal supplies to support 150,000 people. the Kurdish capital, Erbil. · WFP has established 4 field · IOM, at the request of the kitchens with its local partners and is The situation in Dahuk is also of a Kurdistan Regional Government, is feeding over 100,000 people per day, grave concern. Meeting with the Gov- transporting IDPs from affected areas totalling over 1.6 million meals in Da- ernor, Farhad Atrushi, whose Gover- to agreed safe areas. Over the last 48 huk Governorate since the August norate has seen an influx of more than hours, 2,121 IDPs have been provided wave of displacement. 200,000 people since ‘ISIL’ overran with transportation assistance. Be- swathes of northern Iraq, and a total of · UNICEF has moved 30 truck- tween 4 and 12 August, in response to 400,000 displaced since June, WFP loads of relief supplies closer to areas the Sinjar crisis, IOM has reached an Iraq Country Director Jane Pearce and where displaced people are arriving, in estimated number of 15,000 beneficiar- UNHCR Iraq Country Representative addition to conducting distribution of ies through the distribution of 2,533 Shoko Shimozawa pledged to support life-saving aid throughout Dahuk Gov- Non Food Item kits in affected areas the Dahuk Governorate in its consider- ernorate. In total, 60 tons of emergen- and 500 Women Dignity Kits on behalf able efforts to meet the needs of those cy aid are prepared including 1,100 of other partner agencies.

Supporting local authorities with basic services for IDPs in Dohuk

Erbil, 28 August 2014 – The Coun- and help with immediate solutions,“ especially women and youth, is also of try Director of UNDP Iraq, Adam Mr. Abdelmoula said. grave concern. UNDP and its imple- Abdelmoula, today met with the Gov- The Kurdistan Region is not only re- menting partner, the NGO Harikar, is ernor of Dohuk, Farhad Amin ceiving large numbers of Syrian refu- providing legal assistance on gender- Atroshi, to discuss support to IDPs gees, but is also seeing growing num- based violence in the Syrian refugee and host communities, and signed an bers of IDPs facing the ongoing security camp in Domiz, and to IDPs which re- agreement with the Department of crisis in Northern Iraq. Local authori- cently arrived in Sharia area. Some 100 Underground Water on the drilling ties in Dohuk report that there are now women received legal or psychosocial of two wells to serve 1000 vulnerable over 400,000 IDPs in the Governorate, aid in August. IDP in Dawoodia, Dohuk. He also where host communities are over- visited the Syrian refugee camp in stretched to respond to increasing de- Domiz, and internally displaced peo- mands in basic services like water and ple in Sharia area, Dohuk. sewerage, electricity and shelters. “Strengthening human capacity is at UNDP has provided six dislodging the heart of UNDP’s work; by sup- tankers, and will buy two more, to porting local authorities responsive- clean the sewerage systems in 100 ness to the current humanitarian schools hosting large numbers of IDPs crisis, we aim to improve humanitar- in Dohuk and Sumel. ian coordination at different levels The situation of the most vulnerable, Volume 1, Issue 4 Humanitarian Crisis Page 14

UNHCR aid operation starts as first Boeing 747 touches down in Erbil, Iraq

Geneva/Erbil, 20 August 2014 - UN- HCR’s first aid flight in a massive 10- day operation to help people caught in Iraq’s worsening humanitarian crisis landed in Erbil today at 15:10 local time, carrying 100 tons of emergency aid. Aboard the Boeing 747 from Amman, Jordan were 3,300 tents, 20,000 plastic sheets, 18,500 kitchen sets, and 16,500 jerry cans – the first consignment in an operation that aims at bringing in 2,410 tons of aid between now and the start of September. The aid will target living conditions for almost 500,000 displaced people in the region, many of whom are living rough in unfinished buildings, in parks or by the roadside. Today’s flight will be followed by three sea to help the hundreds of thousands or constructed to house the recent of others from Jordan on Thursday, Fri- of desperate people who have fled sud- influx of displaced people to the area. day and Saturday carrying 100 tons denly with nothing but their lives, and Other emergency supplies will be dis- each. Aid is also on its way by road and are now struggling to survive in harsh tributed to people staying in makeshift sea, with 175 trucks bringing tents, conditions,” said United Nations High settlements in Dohuk city, Zakho, Sem- blankets, plastic tarpaulins, and house- Commissioner António Guterres. el town, Akre, and Zawita as well as hold items across borders from Turkey, “It’s the largest single aid push we have other sites in Erbil and Suleymaniya Jordan and Iran from UNHCR ware- mounted in more than a decade,” Gu- governorates in the coming days. houses in the region and Europe. terres said adding that the combined Support for this and further aid deliv- “This is a massive logistics operation to volume of the emergency supplies on eries is coming from the Kingdom of bring in relief supplies by air, land, and their way to Iraq is 11,306 cubic me- Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the US, the UK, tres. Japan, Denmark, Kuwait, Luxem- Iraq’s escalating crisis means that the bourg, Norway, Sweden and IKEA, a Kurdistan region of northern Iraq is corporate partner. now hosting more than 600,000 inter- Across Iraq, an estimated 1.2 million nally displaced civilians, including people have been displaced so far in more than 200,000 people who fled the 2014, including more than 500,000 Sinjar area since early August. UN- from fighting in the Anbar region HCR is working closely with humani- which began in January, and more tarian partners and the Kurdish au- than 600,000 displaced from conflicts in thorities in the region to deliver aid. and around Mosul (since June) and Once on the ground, many of the airlift- more recently Sinjar (since early Au- ed tents will go to Badjet Kandela, gust). The majority of the newly dis- Khanke and Zakho camps in Dohuk placed are in the Kurdistan region of governorate currently being expanded northern Iraq.

UNHCR: Funding of humanitarian aid programs remains essential to serve the 225,000 Syrians in Iraq

Baghdad, July 3, 2014 - The Syria bers, UNHCR Iraq had planned for as This has been a difficult year for Iraq, refugee crisis is fast becoming the many as 400,000 in the RRP6 (Regional which has been coping with an addi- world’s largest displacement. Today, Response Plan 6). This lower number of tional internal displacement of an esti- there are close to 3 million Syrian projected refugees represents a de- mated 1.2M Iraqis since January. Yet refugees, and the number of those crease of 38 per cent. As a result of this extraordinary generosity continues to seeking safe haven is increasing by drop in new arrivals, UNHCR Iraq is be the hallmark of this country, as evi- 100,000 every month. cutting its financial requirements for denced by ordinary Iraqis opening their For Iraq, the monthly refugee influx the Syrian refugee population from the homes and the national and regional is lower than had been expected. As original $553M to $474M, a decrease of governments opening borders and doors a result, UNHCR Iraq has revised its 14 per cent. Some of the potential sav- to their Syrian neighbors. Host commu- planning figures downward for refu- ings is offset by an increase in the refu- nities continue to support these refugee support for the remainder of gees’ vulnerability. Despite the reduc- gees with housing, education, access to 2014. UNHCR is currently basing tion in refugee numbers and overall health care, and more. Donors have planning projections on 250,000 Syri- humanitarian requirements, the refu- also stepped up, to ensure the most ans seeking humanitarian aid at the gees’ needs remain dire. essential protection and assistance end of 2014. In January of this year, A Challenging Humanitarian Environ- needs of Syrian refugees. based on then-current arrival num- ment: Volume 1, Issue 4 Humanitarian Crisis Page 15

KRG - United Nations: Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KR-I) most affected by recent wave of violence with over 850,000 displaced Iraqis this year

Erbil, 30 August 2014 - A comprehensive count carried out jointly by the Kurdistan Region Government (KRG) and the United Nations indicates that some 850,000 Iraqis have been displaced and sought refuge in all three Kurdistan Region Governorates since January 2014. According to the Kurdi- stan Region Ministry of Planning and the International Organization for Mi- gration (IOM) the vast majority of the recently displaced people – 64 per cent - have sought refuge in the Duhok Gov- ernorate. Of the 1.8M Iraqis displaced nation- wide, it is estimated that over 600,000 people were displaced this month alone. This increase is due to an upsurge of violence in various parts of the country, particularly Ninewa, Diyala and Anbar. The latest figures compiled by the KRG under the leadership of the Minister of Planning and IOM's Displacement Tracking Matrix, show that the displaced population are now living in more than 1,000 sites in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq alone. The latest waves of IDPs to the KR-I, count provides a much needed level of occurred in 1991 and it will require a more than 850,000 in 2014, plus some accuracy, the Ministry of Planning will sustained sense of urgency by all au- 216,000 Syrian refugees registered by conduct a full survey of the affected thorities and the international commu- the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), and governorates in the coming months nity to organize and deliver the large previous large population movements of that will provide greater details on the scale assistance that is needed," said around 335,000 which took place prior situation and the needs of the displaced Kevin Kennedy, the United Nations to 2014, brings the total number of peo- people. The UN will be closely associat- Deputy Humanitarian Coordinator for ple who sought refuge in the KR-I to ed to this operation, providing material Iraq. 1.4 million. These latest waves add to and financial support. the very heavy burden borne by the “This is a first but crucial step in the EU and Sweden support process of bringing life-saving aid to people and government of the KR-I. UNCT humanitarian efforts Duhok Governorate's seven districts communities in desperate need of assis- now host over half a million people tance. The KRG is swiftly evaluating seeking shelter, food, water, medicine the situation to see what can be done Erbil, 19 August 2014 - H.E. Carl and protection after the Islamic State with our partners. In the coming weeks Bildt, Minister for Foreign Affairs of of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) seized we will have a clearer strategy but the Sweden and Ms. Kristalina Georgieva, reality is that challenges are immense. territory in Sinjar and neighbouring EU Commissioner for International For now, we will continue establishing communities prompting them to flee. Development Cooperation, with the camps for as many displaced people as Since August, 89 per cent of all dis- Deputy Special Representative of the possible,” said Dr. Ali Sindi, Kurdistan placed in the KR-I went to the Duhok Secretary-General for Iraq Mr. Gyorgy Governorate. Region Minister of Planning. Busztin attended today the meeting of The UN is supporting the Iraqi govern- Due to the rapid influx of people and the United Nations Humanitarian ment and the KRG in delivering emer- their wide dispersal throughout the KR Country Team at the UN Regional Of- -I, it has been difficult for the regional gency aid and is scaling up its efforts to fice in Erbil. Humanitarian efforts and government and UN agencies to quickly meet the needs of the displaced ways to aid the growing population of conduct an accurate count of the dis- throughout Iraq. Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) placed population. While this first "This is a challenging operation and the United Nations, and its NGO partners, were discussed. are fully committed to meeting that challenge. Thousands of tons of relief supplies have already been delivered and hundreds of staff deployed. The humanitarian response is difficult due to security concerns and the massive and rapid influx of displaced but our efforts have been greatly aided by the splendid cooperation and leadership of the KRG and the many residents who have taken in displaced families by the tens of thousands. This displaced crisis is as complex as the displacement that Volume 1, Issue 4 Security situation Page 16 UN Secretary-General condemns in the strongest terms the systematic persecution of minority populations in Iraq by Islamic State (IS)

New York, 20 July, 2014 - The Secre- Over the course of a few weeks, minori- may constitute a crime against human- tary-General condemns in the strongest ty communities that have lived togeth- ity, for which those responsible must be terms the systematic persecution of er for thousands of years in Mosul and held accountable. All armed groups, minority populations in Iraq by Islamic the Ninewa province have come under including IS and associated formations, State (IS) and associated armed groups. direct attack and persecution by IS and must abide by international humani- He is particularly disturbed by reports associated armed groups. Tens of thou- tarian law and protect civilians living of threats against Christians in Mosul sands of members of these ethnic and in areas they control. and other IS-controlled parts of Iraq, religious minority groups have been The United Nations will continue to including an ultimatum to either con- displaced or forced to flee and seek intensify its efforts, in cooperation with vert, pay a tax, leave, or face imminent refuge, while many others have been the Government of Iraq and the Kurdi- execution. Equally repugnant are re- executed and kidnapped. stan Regional Government, to address ports that Turkoman, Yazidis and Sha- The Secretary-General reiterates that the urgent humanitarian needs of those baks are facing abductions, killings or any systematic attack on the civilian displaced by the current conflict and the destruction of their property, and population, or segments of the civilian the terrorist threat facing Iraqi minori- that the homes of Christian, Shia and population, because of their ethnic ty groups, the country, and the region. Shabak residents in Mosul have been background, religious beliefs or faith marked. UN Envoy calls for international condemnation of plight of Iraq’s minorities and ISIL destruction of historic landmarks

Baghdad, 25 July 2014 - The Special Islam and Christianity, show ISIL’s and mosques, as well as other symbols Representative of the United Nations total contempt for human values. Such of Mosul, should further urge Iraq’s Secretary-General for Iraq (SRSG), Mr. acts must be unequivocally condemned political elite to set aside their differ- Nickolay Mladenov, condemns in the both by the international community ences and restore their country’s integ- strongest terms the recent destruction and Iraq’s political, religious and civic rity. of the Prophet Jonas tomb and mosque leaders”, Mr. Mladenov said. in Mosul, as well as several other his- “This most recent outrage is yet anoth- toric monuments symbolizing shared er demonstration of the terrorist history and traditions. group’s intention to shatter Iraq’s “The systematic persecution of minori- shared heritage and identity”, Mr. ties, the destruction of cultural heritage Mladenov further stated, adding that and the obliteration of some of Iraq’s ISIL members’ horrific crimes, includ- most ancient landmarks, sacred to both ing torching and destroying churches UN casualty figures for July 2014

Baghdad, 1 August 2014 – According ticians have shown that they can work incidents by air attack caused a mini- to casualty figures released today by together in choosing the new President mum of 823 casualties killed and in- UNAMI, a total of at least 1,737 Iraqis and the new Speaker of the Council of jured. 30 incidents caused by vehicle were killed and another 1,978 were Representative. It is time that they borne improvised explosive devices injured in acts of terrorism and vio- move forward on the creation of a new (VBIED) and suicide vehicle borne im- lence in July*. government that can address the root provised explosive devices (SVBIED), The number of civilians killed was causes of violence in Iraq and ensure which caused a minimum of 535 casual- 1,186 (including 106 civilian police), equitable development for all communities killed and injured. 78 incidents while the number of civilians injured ties”, Mr. Mladenov added. using improvised explosive devices was 1,511 (including 177 civilian po- Anbar excluded, Baghdad was the (IEDs) caused a minimum of 322 civil- lice). A further 551 members of the worst affected Governorate with 1,035 ian casualties killed and injured. 67 Iraqi Security Forces, including Pesh- civilian casualties (415 killed, 620 in- incidents with small arms fire (SAF) merga and SWAT, were killed and 467 jured), followed by Salahadin (305 caused a minimum of 141 casualties were injured (not including casualties killed, 289 injured), Ninewa (209 killed, killed and injured. from Anbar operation). 270 injured), Kirkuk (68 killed, 127 Operations in Anbar “I am concerned about the rising num- injured), Babil (77 killed, 72 injured) Due to official holidays of Eid-ul-Fitr, ber of casualties in Iraq, particularly and Diyala (71 killed, 66 injured). UNAMI was not able to obtain casualty among the civilian population. Chil- *CAVEATS: Data do not take into ac- figures from Ramadi and other areas of dren and women are most vulnerable. count casualties of the current IA opera- Anbar. UNAMI was only able to obtain All sides should ensure that civilians tion in Anbar, for which we report at the figures for Fallujah from the Gen- are protected and that international the bottom the figures received by our eral Hospital of Fallujah; the total civil- humanitarian law is respected”, the sources. ian casualties in Fallujah up to 30 July Special Representative of the United Incidents inclusive were 132 killed and 421 in- Nations Secretary-General (SRSG) for UNAMI recorded a minimum 400 secu- jured. UNAMI will publish the figures Iraq, Mr. Nickolay Mladenov said. rity incidents in different parts of Iraq. for Ramadi as soon as they are availa- “Despite the continuing fighting, poli- Among these incidents, are included 62 ble. Volume 1, Issue 4 Security situation Page 17 Security Council regrets that minority communities that have lived together for hundreds of years in Mosul and the Ninewa province have come under direct attack and persecution by ISIL

New York, 21 July 2014 - The mem- The members of the Security Council The members of the Security Council bers of the Security Council express condemn in the strongest terms the welcome the Government of Iraq’s ef- their deep concern over reports of systematic persecution of individuals forts, in association with local and re- threats against religious and ethnic from minority populations and those gional authorities and in cooperation minorities in Mosul and other parts of who refuse its extremist ideology in with the United Nations, to address the Iraq controlled by Islamic State in Iraq Iraq by ISIL and associated armed urgent humanitarian needs of those and the Levant (ISIL), including the groups. displaced by the current conflict; to recent ultimatum to Christians to ei- The members of the Security Council tackle the terrorist threat facing mem- ther leave the city, stay and pay a trib- recall that terrorism in all its forms bers of Iraqi minority groups and the ute, convert to Islam, or face imminent and manifestations constitutes one of country, and call for an intensification execution. The members of the Security the most serious threats to internation- of these efforts. Council are equally concerned by re- al peace and security, and that any acts The members of the Security Council ports that all religious and ethnic mi- of terrorism are criminal and unjustifi- further call on all political entities to norities in Mosul and other parts of able, regardless of their motivation, overcome divisions and work together Iraq controlled by ISIL, along with any- wherever, whenever and by whomsoev- in an inclusive and urgent political one who opposes ISIL’s extremist ideol- er committed, and reaffirm that terror- process to strengthen Iraq’s national ogy, are facing abductions, killings or ism cannot and should not be associat- unity, sovereignty and independence. the destruction of their property, and ed with any religion, nationality or that the homes of some residents in civilization. Mosul have been marked. The members of the Security Council The members of the Security Council further recall that widespread or sys- regret that over the course of a few tematic attacks directed against any weeks, minority communities that have civilian populations because of their lived together for hundreds of years in ethnic background, religious beliefs or Mosul and the Ninewa province have faith may constitute a crime against come under direct attack and persecu- humanity, for which those responsible tion by ISIL and associated armed must be held accountable. All armed groups. Tens of thousands of members groups, including ISIL and associated of these ethnic and religious minority armed groups, must abide by interna- groups have been displaced or forced to tional humanitarian law and protect flee and seek refuge, while many others civilians living in areas they control. have been executed and kidnapped.

UN casualty figures for August 2014

Baghdad, 1 September 2014 – the Government of Iraq, the Kurdistan access to water, food, medicines and According to casualty figures re- Region of Iraq and the international health care in extreme weather condi- leased today by UNAMI, a total of at community to alleviate the suffering of tions. These cases have not been in- least 1,420 Iraqis were killed and those fleeing the violence and to secure cluded in the final tally. For these rea- another 1,370 were injured in acts of the return of displaced people to their sons, the figures reported are the abso- terrorism and violence in August*. places of origin in safety and dignity”, lute minimum number of casualties for The number of civilians killed was Mr. Mladenov added. the month of August - the actual fig- 1,265 (including 77 civilian police), ures could be significantly higher. while the number of civilians injured CAVEATS: Data do not take into ac- was 1,198 (including 105 civilian count casualties of the current conflict Civilian casualties (killed and injured) police). A further 155 members of in Anbar, for which we report separate- per governorate the Iraqi Security Forces were killed, ly the figures received from our sources, and 172 were injured (not including but which remain unverified by UN- Anbar excluded, Baghdad was the casualties from Anbar operation). AMI. In general, UNAMI has been worst affected Governorate with 857 “In August alone the UN estimates hindered in effectively verifying casual- civilian casualties (246 killed, 611 in- that 600,000 people have been dis- ties from conflict areas and areas under jured), followed by Nineveh (625 killed, placed while thousands continue to the control of the Islamic State of Iraq 70 injured), Kirkuk (95 killed, 248 in- be targeted and killed by ISIL and and Levant (ISIL) and associated jured), Diyala (140 killed, 94 injured), associated armed groups simply on armed groups. In some cases, UNAMI Salahadin (105 killed, 103 injured). account of their ethnic or religious could only partially verify certain inci- background”, said the Special Repre- dents. In addition to the verified fig- Operations in Anbar sentative of the United Nations Sec- ures provided below, UNAMI has also According to information obtained by retary-General for Iraq (SRSG), Mr. received, without being able to verify, UNAMI from the Health Directorate in Nickolay Mladenov. “The true cost of reports of hundreds of casualties along Anbar, the total civilian casualties in this human tragedy is staggering”, with a large number of reports of civil- Anbar up to 31 August, inclusive, were he added. ians who have died from secondary 268 killed and 796 injured, with 53 “Despite the difficult conditions, ur- effects of violence, having fled their killed and 360 injured in Ramadi and gent measures are being taken by homes but who perished from lack of 215 killed and 436 injured in Fallujah. Volume 1, Issue 4 Security situation Page 18

Impact of conflict on minorities “devastating” - UN experts

Geneva, 25 July 2014 - Two UN hu- civilians in areas under the control of The Special Rapporteur on the human man rights experts stated on Friday the Islamic State are reportedly re- rights of internally displaced persons, that ethnic and religious minorities in quired to adhere to a strict interpreta- Chaloka Beyani, stressed that the on- Iraq are bearing the brunt of the con- tion of Shari’a law or face death, irre- going conflict has already displaced flict that is once again engulfing the spective of their religious backgrounds. some 1.2 million people, mostly minori- country. If protection measures are not The UN experts also expressed the fear ty members who have fled the north- taken urgently, they stressed, the im- that human rights violations against west of Iraq. “This huge displacement pact of the conflict on minorities could religious minorities in Mosul and other is turning into a humanitarian crisis,” be “devastating and irreversible.” areas, including Sinjar and Ninewa, he said. “History has shown that mi- “I am gravely concerned about the are on the rise. nority communities are particularly vulnerable to displacement. Special physical safety of several minority “Reliable information indicates that groups in Iraq, including Christians, protection for them and other internal- religious minorities are being targeted ly displaced people in Iraq is now vital.” Shia - a minority in the North -, Sha- and their members subjected to abduc- baks, Turkmen, Yazidis and others, tions, killings or the confiscation of Echoing the concerns expressed by the who are being persecuted on the their property by extremist groups,” UN Secretary-General on 20 July 2014, grounds of their religion and ethnicity. Ms. Izsák said. the human rights experts stressed that In several areas of northern Iraq, they the Islamic State and associated armed are directly threatened by armed “In Mosul for instance, members of groups must fully comply with interna- groups which have already shown the minorities were given an ultimatum tional humanitarian law and protect gross violations they are capable of that by July 19, they should convert, civilians under their control. pay a tax, leave the city, or face execu- committing,” said the UN Special Rap- They also called for those responsible of porteur on minority issues, Rita Izsák. tion,” she added. “Credible reports suggest that some members of the Yazidi committing human rights violations to The “Islamic State” (IS) and associated and Shabak communities who refused be held accountable and urged the Iraqi armed groups have taken control of to do so were taken before religious Government and the international com- several cities and regions in northern courts and later executed,” she said. munity to do their utmost to protect Iraq in recent weeks. They are accused vulnerable civilians and minorities. of gross human rights violations, some As a result, large numbers of Chris- “The international community must be of which may amount to war crimes tians have fled Mosul, including some ready to provide all the required assis- and crimes against humanity, including 350 families who left on July 19 for tance and support, including humani- the targeting and killing of civilians, northern Ninewa and Dohuk, which tarian assistance, to stop the spiral of the looting of property and the destruc- are under Kurdish control. According to violence that threatens all Iraqis and to tion of religious sites. sources, only a few Christians, who are ensure the survival of its most vulnera- extremely poor or unable to travel, re- ble minorities.” The human rights experts noted that main in the city.

SRSG Mladenov warns against increased targeting of Sunni minorities in Basra Governorate

Baghdad, 20 August 2014 - The faith. Authorities have listed perpetra- threats of violence against minorities Special Representative of the United tors as “unidentified gunmen” and and to publicly and unequivocally reas- Nations Secretary-General for Iraq there have been no arrests in relation sure Sunni citizens in southern Iraq of (SRSG), Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, to any of the incidents”, Chief Human their safety and security”, Mr. Mlade- expresses his grave concern over the Rights Section in UNAMI, Mr. Frances- nov stated, urging those authorities to recent acts of violence committed co Motta further pointed out. investigate these crimes and threats of against members of the Sunni com- “Anonymous threats have also been violence and prosecute those responsi- munity in Basra Governorate. “I am issued to several mosques and a promi- ble according to law. particularly alarmed about the latest nent Sunni organization, warning Sun- spate of abductions and killings that nis to leave Basra or face death. In have taken place in different dis- recent days, the houses of Sunni citi- tricts in the province”, he said. zens in some areas of Abu Khaseeb “Since 23 June 2014, at least 19 Sun- district, Basra Governorate, have been ni civilian men have been killed and marked with an ‘X’ and the external a further 19 injured in a spate of lights have been painted in black. As a targeted killings and abductions. result of these threats, many Sunnis Many of the incidents were not re- are leaving the area”, Mr. Motta also ported in the media but each has said. been verified by UNAMI through multiple sources. In each incident “I call upon Basra authorities, includ- the local community has expressed ing police and security officials, to do the view that the victims were tar- all they can to strengthen security geted for no other reason than their measures to prevent further acts or Volume 1, Issue 4 Security situation Page 19 UN calls for urgent cooperation between Baghdad and Erbil in the wake of Sinjar tragedy

Baghdad, 3 August 2014 - The United for the physical safety of these civilians Region in order to receive protection Nations in Iraq has confirmed reports – particularly those now trapped in and humanitarian assistance,” he add- that ISIL and associated armed groups Jabal Sinjar area, as it is now sur- ed. have seized control of nearly all of Sin- rounded by ISIL militants. Upon his request, this morning Deputy jar and Tal Afar districts in Ninewa The Special Representative of the Unit- SRSG Gyorgy Busztin met His Excel- Province, including the oil fields of Ain ed Nations Secretary-General (SRSG) lency President Fuad Ma’soum who Zala and Batma, bordering the Kurdi- for Iraq, Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, stated shared his grave concern over the situ- stan Region of Iraq. “A humanitarian tragedy is unfolding ation of minorities impacted by the According to reports, as many as in Sinjar. The Government of Iraq and ISIL takeover of significant areas in 200,000 civilians, most of them from the Kurdistan Regional Government the Ninewah plain. He called it the the Yezidi community, have fled to should urgently restore their security collective responsibility of all Iraqis to Jabal Sinjar. The humanitarian situa- cooperation in dealing with the crisis. I assist the displaced. The President tion of these civilians is reported as call on all Iraqi authorities, civil society expressed particular concern over the dire, and they are in urgent need of and international partners to work fate of the minority Yezidi community. basic items including food, water and with the United Nations to ensure the The United Nations reiterates that medicine. An unknown number of civil- delivery of life saving humanitarian international law imposes obligations ians are also reported to have moved assistance”. “I also call on the Kurdi- on all parties to the present conflict to towards Dahuk and Zako in the Kurdi- stan Regional Government to ensure ensure the protection of civilians and stan Region. that those civilians fleeing the violence their access to humanitarian assis- The United Nations has grave concerns are facilitated entry to the Kurdistan tance.

Secretary-General is alarmed to hear reports of Islamic State forces taking over the Iraqi districts of Sinjar and Tal Afar

New York, 3 August 2014 - The Sec- population because of their ethnic back- ty needs of the nation, and adequately retary-General is alarmed to hear re- ground, religious beliefs or faith may protecting and safeguarding the people ports today of Islamic State (IS) forces constitute a crime against humanity and territorial integrity of Iraq. taking over the Iraqi districts of Sinjar and those responsible must be held The Secretary-General calls on all Ira- and Tal Afar in Ninewa Province, caus- accountable. qis to assist the displaced, and reminds ing the mass displacement of some The Secretary-General is particularly all parties to the conflict of their obliga- 200,000 civilians, mostly from the Ye- appalled by the humanitarian crisis the tion in accordance with international zidi community. He expresses his deep- actions by IS and associated armed law to ensure humanitarian access and est concern for the safety and security groups have triggered and calls upon to facilitate the delivery of assistance to of these civilians. the Government of Iraq and the Kurdi- those fleeing the violence. All parties The Secretary-General reiterates that stan Regional Government to put their must abide by international law and any systematic attack on the civilian differences aside and work closely to- protect civilians living in areas affected population or segments of the civilian gether in addressing the urgent securi- by the fighting.

UN Security Council condemns the attacks on Sinjar and Tal Afar

New York, 5 August 2014 - “The members of affirm that ISIL poses a threat not only to these ethnic background, religion or belief may consti- the Security Council condemn the attacks on countries but to regional peace, security, and sta- tute a crime against humanity, for which those Sinjar and Tal Afar in Iraq’s Ninewa province by bility. responsible must be held accountable. All parties, the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) The members of the Security Council recall that including ISIL and associated armed groups, must and express their deep concern about the hun- terrorism in all its forms and manifestations con- abide by international humanitarian law, includ- dreds of thousands of Iraqis – many of them from stitutes one of the most serious threats to interna- ing the obligation to protect the civilian population. vulnerable minority communities, especially tional peace and security, and that any acts of The members of the Security Council also urge all Yezidis – displaced by ISIL’s attacks and in ur- terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regard- parties to stop human rights violations and abuses, gent need of humanitarian assistance. The mem- less of their motivation, wherever, whenever and ensure humanitarian access, and facilitate the bers of the Security Council note that these mi- by whomsoever committed, and reaffirm that delivery of assistance to those fleeing violence. nority communities have lived for hundreds of terrorism cannot and should not be associated with The members of the Security Council welcome the years in Sinjar and elsewhere in Ninewa Prov- any religion, nationality, or civilization. The mem- Government of Iraq’s efforts, in association with ince. Many of these Iraqis have been displaced or bers of the Security Council also remind Member local and regional authorities and in cooperation forced to flee and seek refuge, while many others States of their obligation to implement and enforce with the United Nations, to address the urgent have been executed and kidnapped. the targeted financial sanctions, arms embargo humanitarian needs of those displaced by the The members of the Security Council condemn in and travel ban imposed on the Islamic State in current conflict and to tackle the terrorist threat the strongest terms the systematic persecution of Iraq and the Levant and associated groups and facing all Iraqis, and call for an intensification of individuals from minority populations, including individuals under the sanctions regime pursuant to these efforts. Christians, and those who refuse the extremist resolution 2161 (2014). The members of the Security Council further call ideology of ISIL and associated armed groups. The members of the Security Council express their on all political entities to overcome divisions and The members of the Security Council call upon all strong support for the Statement by the President work together in an inclusive and urgent political of Iraq’s communities to unite to respond, with of the Security Council (S/PRST/2014/14) of 28 July process to strengthen Iraq’s national unity, sover- the support of the international community, to 2014 strongly condemning any engagement in eignty and independence and for Iraq’s leaders to this violent and senseless threat to Iraq’s unity, direct or indirect trade in oil from Syria and Iraq engage, as quickly as possible, to form a Govern- identity and future. involving terrorist groups. ment that represents all segments of the Iraqi The members of the Security Council note that The members of the Security Council further recall population and that contributes to finding a viable the large-scale offensive carried out by ISIL in that wide-spread or systematic attacks directed and sustainable solution to the country’s current Iraq and Syria has a trans-border nature and against any civilian populations because of their challenges.” Volume 1, Issue 4 Security situation Page 20

UN gravely concerned about situation in northern Iraq; calls for urgent response

Baghdad, 7 August 2014 - The United (DSRSG) for Iraq, Mr. Gyorgy Busztin, have risen at an alarming rate and the Nations is gravely concerned by the said “I am gravely concerned for the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) serious deterioration in the security physical safety of many of those civil- is unable to meet their needs. DSRSG and humanitarian situation in north- ians trapped in areas under ISIL con- Busztin called on the Iraqi Government ern Iraq. The Islamic State in Iraq and trol or in areas affected by violence. to urgently make resources available to the Levant (ISIL) terrorist group and The UN continues to receive reports the KRG to help alleviate the crisis. associated armed groups have overrun that members of minority communities The United Nations is coordinating areas in the Ninewa plains and are being subjected to serious human humanitarian assistance for the latest Shirkhan districts of Ninewa, with rights violations by ISIL including influx of civilians displaced into the fighting continuing between ISIL and murder, kidnappings, forced conver- Kurdistan Region and is exploring all the Kurdish forces along border areas sions, physical and sexual assault, and avenues to try to get supplies to those of the Kurdistan Region in the vicinity the looting and destruction of property trapped in ISIL areas of control – how- of Makhmour. Over the last 48 hours and places of religious and cultural ever, resources are being stretched to 200,000 civilians have fled the advance significance, in what appears to be a the limit. of ISIL, with at least 180,000 crossed widespread and systematic policy The DSRSG stated, “I urgently call on into Dohuk district of the Kurdistan aimed at cleansing non Sunni ethnic Region. This in addition to large num- the Government of Iraq and the Gov- and religious communities from areas ernment of the Kurdistan Region to bers of civilians displaced as a result of under its control”. the ISIL advance into Sinjar and Tal coordinate a security and humanitarian Afar districts of Ninewa Governorate The DSRSG further stated, “The Unit- response to the current crisis and to do that took place on 2-3 August, which ed Nations is also deeply worried by the their utmost to ensure the availability resulted in up to 200,000 predominant- humanitarian situation of civilians in of resources to support the humanitari- ly Yezidi civilians becoming trapped on areas under ISIL control. Many are in an needs of those civilians displaced or Jabal Sinjar in territory now controlled locations that are inaccessible, includ- affected by the violence. I also urgently by ISIL. With the conflict ongoing, ing those who have been trapped for call on the members of the internation- many more civilians are expected to over 5 days on Jabal Sinjar mountain - al community to provide assistance to flee the fighting. women, children, aged people and peo- the Governments of Iraq and the Kur- ple with disabilities and those in need distan Region to combat the threat Many of those displaced or directly of medical assistance”. The DSRSG posed by ISIL and associated armed affected by the violence belong to Iraq’s further added: “Without the delivery of groups and to ensure the protection of minority religious and ethnic communi- urgent life-saving items, including wa- civilians from the effects of violence, ties - including Yezidi, Christians, Sha- ter, food, shelter and medicines, the particularly members of Iraq’s ethnic bak, Turkomen and others. lives of thousands of these civilians is and religious minorities who are now at The Deputy Special Representative of now at serious risk”. The numbers of serious risk”. the United Nations Secretary-General displaced in the Kurdistan Region-Iraq

Babille: “Reported deaths of 40 children are of extreme concern”

Erbil, 5 August 2014 – “The reported over by the Islamic State (formerly loss of life. deaths of 40 children from minority known as ISIS) on Sunday. UNICEF calls all those who have influ- groups who were displaced from Sinjar Children are particularly vulnerable, ence to immediately grant children and city and district by armed violence are and are most affected by the continuing women free and safe access to areas of of extreme concern”, said Mr. Marzio violence, displacement and fighting in refuge and respect the special protec- Babille, UNICEF representative in Iraq. UNICEF repeats its urgent call tion afforded to children under interna- Iraq. for all children in need to be protected tional humanitarian and human rights According to official reports received and immediately provided with life- law.” by UNICEF, these children from the saving assistance to prevent further Yazidi minority died as a direct conse- quence of violence, displacement and dehydration over the past two days. Families who fled the area are in immediate need of urgent assistance, including up to 25,000 children who are now stranded in mountains sur- rounding Sinjar and are in dire need of humanitarian aid including drinking water and sanitation services. Sinjar, a district of Ninewa in northwest Iraq with a population of at least 150,000 children - including many who are internally displaced - was taken Volume 1, Issue 4 Security situation Page 21 Secretary-General is deeply appalled at reports of attacks affecting mainly the vulnerable communities of Christians, Turkomen, and Yezidis

New York, 7 August 2014 - The Sec- amassing along the Turkish border as safety of those civilians. retary-General is deeply appalled at well as thousands also trapped in the The Secretary-General calls on the in- today’s reports of attacks by the ter- Sinjar mountains in desperate need of ternational community, especially those rorist group Islamic State (IS) in Kir- humanitarian assistance are of urgent with the influence and resources to kuk, and Qaraqosh, and earlier at- and grave concern. positively impact the situation, to sup- tacks in Tal Afar and Sinjar district The Secretary-General welcomes the port the Government and people of Iraq affecting mainly the vulnerable com- successful humanitarian airdrop that and to do all it can to help alleviate the munities of Christians, Turkomen, has taken place so far but expresses his suffering of the population affected by and Yezidis. Reports of Yezidis continuing and deep concern for the the current conflict in Iraq.

Security Council condemn the attacks in Iraq’s Ninewa Province

New York, 7 August 2014 - The mem- background, political grounds, reli- facing all Iraqis, and call for an intensi- bers of the Security Council condemn gion or belief may constitute a crime fication of these efforts. the attacks in Iraq’s Ninewa Province, against humanity, for which those The members of the Security Council including Sinjar and Tal Afar, by the responsible must be held accounta- call on the international community to Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant ble. All parties, including ISIL and support the Government and people of (ISIL) and again express their deep associated armed groups, must abide Iraq and to do all it can to help allevi- outrage about the hundreds of thou- by international humanitarian law, ate the suffering of the population af- sands of Iraqis — many of them from including the obligation to protect the fected by the current conflict in Iraq. vulnerable minority communities, espe- civilian population. The members of cially Yezidis and Christians — dis- the Security Council also urge all The members of the Security Council placed by ISIL’s attacks and in urgent parties to stop human rights viola- further call on all political entities to need of humanitarian assistance. The tions and abuses, ensure humanitari- overcome divisions and work together members of the Security Council con- an access, and facilitate the delivery in an inclusive and urgent political demn in the strongest terms the sys- of assistance to those fleeing violence. process to strengthen Iraq’s national tematic persecution of individuals from unity, sovereignty and independence The members of the Security Council minority populations and those who and for Iraq’s leaders to engage, as welcome the Government of Iraq’s refuse the extremist ideology of ISIL quickly as possible, to form a Govern- efforts, in association with local and and associated armed groups. ment that represents all segments of regional authorities and in coopera- the Iraqi population and that contrib- The members of the Security Council tion with the United Nations, to ad- utes to finding a viable and sustainable reiterate that widespread or systematic dress the urgent humanitarian needs solution to the country’s current chal- attacks directed against any civilian of those displaced by the current con- lenges. populations because of their ethnic flict and to combat the terrorist threat

Secretary-General remains deeply concerned about the evolving humanitarian and security situation in Iraq

New York, 9 August 2014 - The Sec- nomination of the Prime Minister. He retary-General remains deeply con- also calls for reason and wisdom to cerned about the evolving humanitari- prevail and urges all leaders in Iraq to an and security situation in Iraq. The form a broad-based government that is United Nations and the international acceptable to all components of Iraqi community are also closely watching society. Such a government should be political developments in the country. able to mobilize the nation to confront The Secretary-General calls upon all the threat from the Islamic State (IS) Iraqi political parties to abide by the in a way that will bring security and constitutional timeline that governs the stability to the whole country. Volume 1, Issue 4 Security situation Page 22

United Nations Security Council resolution approves sanctions against militants in Iraq, Syria

New York, 14 August 2014 - Through readiness to consider putting on the Russian Federation, United States, the unanimous adoption of resolution sanctions list those who facilitated the Australia, Jordan, China, France, Chad 2170 (2014), under the binding Chapter recruitment and travel of foreign fight- and Chile along with the representa- VII of the United Nations Charter, the ers. tives of Iraq and Syria. All underlined Council condemned in the strongest Through the resolution, the Council the dire threat posed by ISIL, Al-Nusra terms what it called “gross, systematic demanded that ISIL, Al-Nusra Front Front and other extremist groups to the and widespread abuse” of human rights and all other entities associated with Al region and the world and called for by the Islamic State in Iraq and the -Qaida cease all violence and terrorist further firm Council action to deal with Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) and acts, and immediately disarm and dis- them. Al-Nusra Front. In an annex to the band. Recalling that their attacks Syria's representative said his country text, it named the individuals subject to against civilians on the basis of ethnic had been fighting such terrorists for the travel restrictions, asset freezes or religious identity might constitute the past three years, while others in and other measures targeted at Al- crimes against humanity, it stressed the region had been supporting those Qaida affiliates. [Abu Bakr al- the need to bring those perpetrators, groups. Jordan's representative main- Baghdadi, leader of ISIL, was not including foreign fighters, to justice. tained, however, that terrorism in Syr- among the six because he has been The Council directed the sanctions ia had been exacerbated by Syria's listed since 2011]. monitoring team to report on the con- marginalization of moderate opposition It called on Member States to take na- tinuing threat posed by ISIL and the groups. tional measures to prevent fighters Front, and their sources of arms, fund- Iraq's representative, describing atroci- from travelling from their soil to join ing, recruitment and demographics, ties committed by ISIS in its sweep the groups, reiterating obligations un- and to present recommendations within across his country, thanked States that der previous counter-terrorism resolu- 90 days to further address the threat. had come to its aid during the crisis. tions to prevent the movement of ter- Following action on the text, its adop- Greater regional and international rorists, as well as their supply with tion was welcomed by representatives cooperation were needed to end the arms or financial support. It expressed of Council members United Kingdom, threat.

Secretary-General condemns in UN Envoy calls for immediate action to prevent the strongest terms the reported attack on a mosque in possible massacre of Iraqis in Amerli Diyala Province

New York, 22 August 2014 - The Baghdad, 23 August 2014 – The Spe- are surviving in desperate conditions. I Secretary-General condemns in the cial Representative of the United Na- urge the Iraqi Government to do all it strongest terms the reported attack on tions Secretary-General for Iraq can to relieve the siege and to ensure a mosque in Diyala Province, said to (SRSG), Mr. Nickolay Mladenov, is that the residents receive lifesaving have killed dozens of Sunni worship- seriously alarmed by reports regarding humanitarian assistance or are evacu- pers. Attacks on places of worship are the inhuman conditions of the inhabit- ated in a dignified manner. Iraq’s al- completely unacceptable and are pro- ants of the northern town of Amerli, lies and the international community hibited under international law. The besieged and cut off from food and wa- should work with the authorities to Secretary-General calls on all Iraqi ter supplies by the Islamic State of Iraq prevent a human rights tragedy”, Mr. authorities to ensure that the attack is and the Levant (ISIL) armed group for Mladenov said. properly investigated and its perpetra- almost two months. “The United Nations in Iraq will do all tors held to account. “The situation of the people in Amerli is it can to support the Government and desperate and demands immediate people of Iraq in alleviating the un- The Secretary-General is deeply con- action to prevent the possible massacre speakable suffering of Amerli’s inhabit- cerned about the impact such acts of of its citizens. The town is besieged by ants”, he further said. sectarian violence will have on the ISIL and reports confirm that people already grave security situation and on the political process aimed at establishing a unified government capable of confronting the threat to Iraq posed by ISIL. He urges all political leaders to unite and call on their constituents to refrain from sectarianism and to give the political process a chance. Sectarian attacks and counter-attacks only serve the enemies of Iraq.

The Secretary-General extends his condolences to the families of the victims. Volume 1, Issue 4 Human rights violations Page 23

UN report documents litany of human rights violations in Iraq, including possible war crimes and crimes against humanity Baghdad/Geneva, 18 July 2014 – A of civilian infrastructure (including UN report released Friday documents a hospitals and schools); attacks on pro- litany of serious human rights viola- tected installations (such as dams); and tions committed by the Islamic State of attacks on places of cultural signifi- Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and associ- cance and places of religious worship. ated armed groups between 5 June and The report also documents violations 5 July, including some that may committed by the ISF and affiliated amount to war crimes and crimes forces, including summary executions against humanity. The report also doc- or extrajudicial killings of prisoners uments violations committed by Iraqi and detainees, which may also amount security forces (ISF) and associated to war crimes. The report casts doubt forces. over adherence by the ISF and affiliat- The report, compiled by the UN Assis- ed forces to the principle of distinction tance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) and and proportionality and whether they Rights, Navi Pillay, said she was par- the UN Human Rights office, is based undertook the necessary precautions to ticularly concerned about the protection on direct monitoring activities as well protect civilians during the conduct of and welfare of members of vulnerable as a variety of sources, including civil- hostilities. groups who remain in areas affected by ian victims and witnesses. It docu- Special Representative of the UN Sec- the armed conflict, especially women, ments the “untold hardship and suffer- retary-General for Iraq, Nickolay Mlad- female-headed households, children, ing” that has been imposed upon the enov, deplored the heavy toll the con- people with disabilities, the elderly, civilian population, “with large-scale flict is taking on Iraqi civilians. and members of minority groups. killings, injuries and destruction and "International law requires that both “Every day we receive accounts of a damage of livelihoods and property.” the Iraqi State and armed groups take terrible litany of human rights viola- Where information has been cross- all measures to minimize the impact of tions being committed in Iraq against checked and verified, specific incidents violence on civilians, respect the princi- ordinary Iraqi children, women and are detailed in the report. ples of distinction and proportionality men, who have been deprived of their “ISIL and associated armed groups when carrying out military operations, security, their livelihoods, their homes, have…carried out many of these at- and take steps to ensure the safety and education, healthcare and other basic tacks in a systematic manner heedless protection of civilians by enabling them services,” she said. of the impact on civilians, or have sys- to leave areas affected by violence in “The deliberate or indiscriminate tar- tematically targeted civilians and civil- safety and dignity, and to access basic geting of civilians, the killing of civilian infrastructure with the intention of humanitarian assistance at all times,” ians, the use of civilians as shields, the killing and wounding as many civilians he said. hindering of access for civilians to hu- as possible,” the report states. “Targets “The United Nations is fully engaged manitarian assistance may amount to have included markets, restaurants, with the Government of Iraq, the Kurd- war crimes or crimes against humanity. shops, cafes, playgrounds, schools, plac- ish Regional Government and civil soci- Parties to the conflict are required by es of worship and other public spaces ety organizations to provide basic hu- international human rights law and where civilians gather in large num- manitarian assistance to all civilians international humanitarian law to pre- bers.” who have been displaced or who remain vent such violations and abuses from Among the systematic and egregious in areas affected by violence." taking place.” violations perpetrated by ISIL, the re- The report also notes that children Pillay also stressed the obligation of the port lists: have been disproportionately affected Government of Iraq to investigate seri- · The direct, deliberate target- by the conflict. ous violations and to hold the perpetra- ing of civilians in the conduct of mili- “In all conflict-affected areas, child tors to account. tary operations and disregard for the casualties due to indiscriminate or sys- Mladenov reiterated his call to the Ira- principles of distinction or proportional- tematic attacks by armed groups and qi political leadership to quickly move ity in the context of military operations; by Government shelling on populated forward with the political process. · Killings, including executions, areas have been on the rise,” it states. “Now that a Speaker of Parliament has of civilians, captured ISF personnel, “Credible information on recruitment been elected, it is vital that Iraqi lead- and individuals associated with the and use of children as soldiers was also ers quickly move forward on the nomi- Government of Iraq; received.” nation of a new President and a new · Kidnapping of civilians, in- UN High Commissioner for Human Government. An inclusive political pro- cluding of foreign nationals; cess, cooperation between Baghdad and · Targeted killings of political, Erbil as well as a nationally accepted community and religious figures; security plan are important elements in · Killings, abductions and other restoring the rule of law and bringing crimes and human rights violations the country back from the brink of cha- against members of ethnic, religious os,” Mladenov stressed. and other minorities; The report notes that in the month of · Killing and physical violence June, at least 1,531 civilians were against children; the forced recruitment killed in Iraq and 1,763 were wounded. of children; Some 1.2 million Iraqis have been in- · Wanton destruction of civilian ternally displaced as a result of the property; robbery and plunder of civil- violence – including over 600,000 since ian property; targeting and destruction the beginning of June alone. Volume 1, Issue 4 Human rights violations Page 24

Pillay: “Iraqi civilians suffering “horrific” widespread and systematic persecution”

Geneva, 25 August 2014 – UN High humanitarian assistance to individuals Commissioner for Human Rights Navi displaced by the conflict and those be- Pillay on Monday condemned the ap- sieged in ISIL-controlled areas. palling, widespread and systematic At least 13,000 members of the Shia deprivation of human rights in Iraq by Turkmen community in Amirli in Salah ISIL (the self-proclaimed “Islamic al-Din Governorate, among them State”) and associated forces. The viola- 10,000 women and children, have been tions include targeted killings, forced besieged by ISIL and associated armed conversions, abductions, trafficking, groups since 15 June. Residents are slavery, sexual abuse, destruction of enduring harsh living conditions with places of religious and cultural signifi- severe food and water shortages, and a cance, and the besieging of entire com- complete absence of medical services – munities because of ethnic, religious or and there are fears of a possible immi- sectarian affiliation. Among those di- nent massacre. rectly targeted have been Christians, The High Commissioner echoed the Yezidi, Shabaks, Turkomen, Kaka’e urgent call by the Special Representa- individual checks based on how they and Sabaeans. tive of the UN Secretary-General for prayed and their place of origin. Sunni “Grave, horrific human rights viola- Iraq for the international community to inmates were ordered back on the tions are being committed daily by ISIL work with the authorities to prevent a trucks and left the scene. ISIL gunmen and associated armed groups,” Pillay humanitarian and human rights trage- then yelled insults at the remaining said. “They are systematically targeting dy. prisoners, lined them up in four rows, men, women and children based on The displacement of thousands of ordered them to kneel and opened fire. their ethnic, religious or sectarian affil- Christians and members of the Turk- Up to 670 prisoners were reportedly iation and are ruthlessly carrying out men and Shabak communities, who killed. widespread ethnic and religious cleans- fled Mosul and other cities in Nineveh “Such cold-blooded, systematic and ing in the areas under their control. that are under ISIL control, is also of intentional killings of civilians, after Such persecution would amount to serious concern. Having fled their singling them out for their religious crimes against humanity.” homes fearing reprisals and executions, affiliation may amount to war crimes In Nineveh Governorate, hundreds of many of the displaced people are living and crimes against humanity,” the mostly Yezidi individuals were reported in dire conditions within the Kurdistan High Commissioner said. killed and up to 2,500 kidnapped at the region and in other locations in the In other areas of the country, there are beginning of August. The abductees country. increasing reports of killings targeting were reportedly being held in various “The Government of Iraq and the Kur- civilians. In Basra, 19 members of the locations in Tal Afar and Mosul. Indi- distan Region of Iraq, and the interna- Sunni community were killed, some of viduals who agreed to convert are being tional community must take all neces- them after they were kidnapped by held under ISIL guard. Of those who sary measures and spare no effort to unknown assailants. Last Friday, doz- refused to convert, witnesses report protect members of ethnic and religious ens of Sunni worshippers were killed in that the men were executed while the communities, who are particularly vul- an attack on a mosque in Diyala Prov- women and their children were taken nerable, and to secure their return to ince. In Baghdad, medical sources indi- as slaves and either handed over to their places of origin in safety and dig- cate that at least 15 bodies are found in ISIL fighters as slaves or threatened nity,” said Pillay. the city on a daily basis – all appear to with being sold. The effect of the ongoing conflict on have been bound and executed. Civil- Similarly, in Cotcho village in Southern children is catastrophic. According to ians have also been killed in airstrikes Sinjar, ISIL killed and abducted hun- interviews by UN human rights moni- by the Iraqi Security Forces in Anbar dreds of Yezidis on 15 August. Reports tors with displaced families, ISIL is and Nineveh Governorates. indicate, again, that the male villagers forcibly recruiting boys aged 15 and “All parties to the conflict in Iraq have were killed while women and children above. ISIL has also reportedly been the responsibility not to target civilians were taken away to unknown locations. deliberately positioning the boys at the or civilian objects, to take all feasible Inhabitants of a number of other villag- front-line in battle situations, as hu- precautions to spare civilians from the es in Sinjar, which remain besieged by man shields. effects of hostilities, and to respect, ISIL and associated armed groups, are The Human Rights Office of the UN protect and meet the basic humanitari- at serious risk. Assistance Mission for Iraq has also an needs of the civilian population,” “UN staff members in Iraq have been verified reports of a massacre of prison- Pillay stressed. “According to interna- receiving harrowing phone calls from ers and detainees in Mosul’s Badoush tional law, the severe deprivation of besieged civilians who are surviving in Prison on 10 June. According to inter- fundamental rights by reason of the terrible conditions, with little or no views with 20 survivors and 16 wit- identity of a group or collectivity access to humanitarian aid,” Pillay nesses of the massacre, ISIL gunmen amounts to the crime against humanity said. “One of the women abducted by loaded between 1,000 and 1,500 prison- of persecution.” ISIL managed to call our staff, and told ers onto trucks and transported them “I urge the international community to them that her teenage son and daugh- to a nearby uninhabited area. ensure that the perpetrators of these ter were among the many who had There, armed men asked the Sunnis to vicious crimes do not enjoy impunity. been raped and sexually assaulted by separate themselves from the others. Any individual committing, or assisting ISIL gunmen. Another said her son had Around 100 prisoners who joined the in the commission of international been raped at a checkpoint.” Sunni group were suspected by ISIL crimes, must be held accountable ac- Pillay also stressed the urgent need for not to be Sunni and were subjected to cording to law.” Volume 1, Issue 4 Human rights violations Page 25 “Immediate action needed to protect human rights of Yazidis in grave danger” – UN experts

Geneva, 12 August 2014 – A group sands of people are at immediate risk of feldt,” said. of United Nations human rights ex- death by violence or by hunger and “We have reports of women being exe- perts today expressed their grave con- thirst,” warned the Special Rapporteur cuted and unverified reports that cern at the imminent danger of massa- on the human rights of internally dis- strongly suggest that hundreds of wom- cre faced by the Yazidi population placed persons, Chaloka Beyani. en and children have been kidnapped – forced to flee Sinjar in northern Iraq “Humanitarian aid must be delivered many of the teenagers have been sex- and other minority communities cur- quickly and no efforts should be spared ually assaulted, and women have been rently exposed to attacks by members to protect all groups forcefully dis- assigned or sold to ‘IS’ fighters as of the ‘Islamic State’ (IS, (formerly placed by this conflict,” he added. ‘malak yamiin’ or slaves,” said the Spe- known as ISIS). The UN has received verified reports cial Rapporteur on violence against The experts on the rights of minori- that ‘IS’ is systematically hunting down women, Rashida Manjoo. ties, internal displacement, summary members of minority groups who re- “Such violations are crimes against executions, freedom of religion, vio- main trapped in areas under their con- humanity that must be stopped and lence against women and discrimina- trol and giving them the ultimatum, punished,” Ms. Manjoo underscored. tion against women called for immedi- “convert or die,” stated Christof Heyns, Despite hundreds being helped to rela- ate action to protect the human rights Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, tive safety by Kurdish and Iraqi forces, of Yazidis and other affected commu- summary or arbitrary executions. “We around 40,000 Yazidis reportedly re- nities, including the fundamental cannot stand by in the face of such main hiding in a mountainous region of right to life. atrocities. International actors must do Sinjar, in the northwest of Iraq, where “All possible measures must be taken all in their power to support those on they took refuge escaping from the Is- urgently to avoid a mass atrocity and the ground with the capacity to protect lamic State which has threatened them potential genocide within days or lives.” with death. hours – civilians need to be protected The situation has continued deteriorat- Forty Yazidi displaced children died on the ground and escorted out of situ- ing rapidly and at present thousands of last week due to dehydration, according ations of extreme peril,” urged the members of the Yazidi community are to UNICEF. Over the past weeks an Special Rapporteur on minority is- trapped on Mount Sinjar, threatened estimated 250,000 members of religious sues, Rita Izsák. with death by the IS and without ac- minorities have been forced to flee their Ms. Izsák cautioned that “the respon- cess to food and water. homes escaping from the advance of ‘IS’ sibility to protect populations at risk “Freedom of religion and belief is being and associated armed groups, accused of atrocity crimes falls both on the denied in the most gross and systemat- of gross human rights violations which Iraqi Government and the interna- ic way possible – through the attempt- could amount to war crimes and crimes tional community.” ed extermination of religious minori- against humanity. “We are witnessing a tragedy of huge ties.” The Special Rapporteur on free- proportions unfolding in which thou- dom of religion and belief, Heiner Biele- UNICEF reaches displaced children in Sinjar

Dohuk, 2 July 2014 – UNICEF said abduction, have pushed hundreds of by the United Nations Population Fund today it made its first delivery of essen- thousands of people from their homes. (UNFPA). In respect to the assistance tial humanitarian supplies to Sinjar, a to pregnant women, UNFPA Repre- Sinjar, a town of 35,000 people situat- town in the western Ninevah Gover- sentative in Iraq Dr. Georges M. Georgi ed some 190 kilometers from Erbil, is norate of Iraq, to assist some of the stated that "UNFPA is delivering on its now sheltering an additional 50,000 thousands of people who fled there over motto, every pregnancy is cared for and internally displaced persons, more the past few days. women and girls dignity is protected." than half of whom are children. While “The situation for children is dire,” said some are staying with relatives, most “This is just a fraction of what these Marzio Babille, UNICEF Representa- families are living in government families need, but we are committed to tive in Iraq on his return from Sinjar. buildings or out in the open, with advance child survival, staying the “There were over 8000 families, with little protection from the scorching course and to doing all we can to help hundreds of children living in a stadi- heat and wind. Access to basic ser- the children of Iraq weather yet anoth- um, others in a religious shrine, play- vices like water, latrines and protec- er traumatic crisis,” said Babille. ing among tombstones. They may feel tion is sketchy at best. safer here, but they are very scared and UNICEF’s convoy on 29 June to Sin- confused about this brutal change in jar travelled from Dohuk through their daily routine.” disputed areas and delivered 24,000 The United Nations Assistance Mission liters of bottled drinking water, 2,000 for Iraq announced today that in June, hygiene kits, 1,300 jerry cans and 10 at least 1,500 civilians had been killed recreational kits with enough toys in in Iraq, the highest toll in a single each for 500 children. The convoy also month in seven years. Since extremist included 150 safe birthing kits and groups took over parts of Iraq, rising 150 female hygiene kits to provide levels of violence, including fighting, safe delivery for the many pregnant summary executions and reports of women among the displaced, provided Volume 1, Issue 4 Vulnerable groups Page 26 Women, girls face escalating risk of violence, exploitation during Iraq crisis, warns UNFPA

New York, 30 June 2014 – With the beginning of the crisis, to up to 20 of this crisis, we would require finan- nearly one million people currently Caesarean cases every day – from 8 to cial assistance in order to be able to displaced throughout North and West- 10 cases prior to the crisis – and more sustain and scale up our humanitarian ern Iraq, UNFPA, the United Nations than 50 normal deliveries. Because of activities and those of our partners.” Population Fund, warns that about serious shortages in supplies, beds and UNFPA estimates that it will require 250,000 women and girls, including staff, women who had delivered were $6.5 million to provide for the needs of nearly 60,000 pregnant women, are in being discharged from the maternity over 200,000 women and girls affected need of urgent care. While an estimat- after just three hours. by the crisis by offering reproductive ed 225 women will give birth every In response to the crisis, UNFPA has health care services, psychosocial sup- day, approximately 1,000 pregnant provided the Erbil Maternity Hospital port and activities to raise awareness women each month will encounter life- with reproductive health and delivery about gender-based violence. threatening complications. kits containing medical supplies to As the conflict escalates and security cater for emergency obstetric care for worsens, UNFPA is concerned that, as 1,200 deliveries. However, without in any emergency, the vulnerability of additional resources, these kits will women and girls to gender-based vio- only meet needs for a few weeks. UN- lence and exploitation will increase. FPA has also deployed social workers According to estimates, 20,000 women in the Khazar Camp to support the and girls could face an increased risk specific needs of pregnant women and of sexual violence. provide referrals as needed. “We must not wait for cases to be In addition, more than 2,000 women counted comprehensively and docu- and girls are receiving basic hygiene mented in detail before we act,” said supplies through the delivery of UN- UNFPA’s Executive Director, Dr. Ba- FPA’s women dignity kits (containing batunde Osotimehin. “We must act items such as underwear, soap and immediately to ensure that women sanitary pads) in two camps and host and girls are protected from sexual communities in Dohuk Governorate. violence.” Safe spaces for women and services to As health facilities are overstretched, address gender-based violence are also UN Humanitarian Community UNFPA also expects that the number being established in camps. verifying information about of unassisted childbirths may rise. As “We are redirecting our resources, in- reported ISIL “Decree” on FGM part of an assessment of the Erbil cluding our surge capacity and availa- Maternity Hospital, UNFPA noted ble stocks,” said Dr. Osotimehin. Erbil, 25 July 2014 – Reference to that the caseload has doubled since “However, given the potential enormity some statements recently attributed to the United Nations Resident / Humani- SRSG Bangura and SRSG Mladenov gravely concerned by tarian Coordinator in Iraq, Deputy reports of sexual violence against internally displaced persons Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq Baghdad, 12 August 2014 – “We are under its control, and we remind all (DSRSG) Jacqueline Badcock, regard- gravely concerned by continued reports armed groups that acts of sexual vio- ing information that the Islamic State of acts of violence, including sexual lence are grave human rights viola- of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) has alleg- violence against women and teenage tions that can be considered as war edly required women in parts of north- girls and boys belonging to Iraqi minor- crimes and crimes against humanity”, ern Iraq under its control to undergo ities”, the Special Representative of the SRSG Bangura said, urging all par- Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), the United Nations Secretary-General for ties to the conflict to adhere to their United Nations Humanitarian Commu- Iraq (SRSG), Mr. Nickolay Mladenov responsibilities to protect civilians.. nity would like to make the following and the Special Representative of the clarification: SRSG Mladenov called on regional Secretary-General on Sexual Violence “The United Nations Humanitarian governments and the wider interna- in Conflict, Ms. Zainab Hawa Bangura Community is verifying the information tional community for the immediate said today. about the reported “decree” and its im- release of the women and girls held in plementation, UNAMI Spokesperson “Atrocious accounts on the abduction captivity and to support the Govern- Ms. Eliana Nabaa said. “At this point, and detention of Yazidi, Christian, as ment of Iraq’s efforts to protect its the United Nations can neither confirm well as Turkomen and Shabak women, citizens. nor deny any reports circulating on the girls and boys, and reports of savage “The Office of the Special Representa- subject with regard to Iraq”, she added, rapes, are reaching us in an alarming tive of the Secretary-General on Sexu- noting that “such “decrees” have report- manner”, Bangura and Mladenov stat- al Violence in Conflict and the United edly been circulated in Syrian areas of ed, pointing out that some 1,500 Yazidi Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq ISIL control”. and Christian persons may have been (UNAMI) will continue to monitor the “The United Nations remains gravely forced into sexual slavery. situation in Iraq as it pertains to sex- concerned about the particular vulnera- “We condemn, in the strongest terms, ual violence to ensure accountability bilities of women and girls in conflict the explicit targeting of women and for perpetrators and to advocate for areas, reportedly exposed to rape, children and the barbaric acts the support and assistance to the survi- forced marriages and other abuses ‘Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant’ vors of these barbaric acts”, Bangura which need to be particularly ad- has perpetrated on minorities in areas and Mladenov asserted. dressed”, Ms. Nabaa stressed. Volume 1, Issue 4 Vulnerable groups Page 27 Mass Polio Vaccination Campaign supported by WHO and UNICEF kicks off in Iraq

11 August 2014 – Iraq has launched crowded conditions where they are at a incurable disease. WHO and UNICEF a polio immunization campaign aim- much higher risk of contracting infec- are helping health authorities reach ing to protect over four million chil- tious diseases,” said Dr Syed Jaffar children in 12 governorates, including dren under the age of 5 throughout Hussain, WHO Iraq Representative. the three governorates in the Kurdi- the country against the crippling dis- “WHO is working with the national stan Region of Iraq where approximate- ease. health authorities and partners to en- ly 250,000 Iraqi children and 125,000 The four-day campaign, undertaken sure that the health of all vulnerable Syrian children have taken refuge. by the Ministry of Health with the populations, especially children, is pro- “Iraq is one of seven countries included support of WHO and UNICEF, is part tected against diseases like Polio.” in a consolidated polio response plan by of the national response to the re- With two cases of polio in Iraq and a WHO and UNICEF that aims to reach emergence of the polio virus earlier relatively high number of unvaccinated 25 million children in the region with this year which ended nearly 14 years children due to difficulties in accessing repeated doses of the vaccine. Every- of Iraq's polio-free status. families and children, especially in thing possible must be done to reach all “This campaign comes at a critical conflict zones and due to social reserva- children and end polio forever,” said time while the country is witnessing a tions, Iraq has now become vulnerable Chris Maher, WHO manager for polio huge internal exodus of children flee- to a wider outbreak of the crippling and eradication. ing violence and turmoil,” said Marzio Babille, UNICEF Iraq Representative. “This is a top priority for UNICEF. No child should be missed. No child should be paralysed.” The campaign aims to reach children in conflict zones, displaced communities and host populations. The ongoing violence in the country has pre- cipitated the internal displacement of nearly 1.2 million people since the beginning of the year. Almost 200,000 have been displaced only in the last three days alone. UNICEF estimates half of that number are children. “As the violence spreads, children are being displaced up to three times with their families, often living in over-

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia supports WHO response to Iraq crisis

Erbil, 18 August, 2014 - Humanitari- WHO’s Representative to Iraq. displaced people seeking health care. In an health services in Iraq have received The health projects will be imple- Anbar, only 40 of the 153 public health a much-needed boost through a $US 50 mented in all areas hosting displaced centres are functional, with the main million grant provided by the Kingdom people, plus conflict-affected gover- Fallujah and Ramadi hospitals operat- of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to WHO for its norates (Anbar, Ninewah, Salah El- ing at limited capacity. In Mosul, the response to health crises facing millions Din, Diyala, Kirkuk and the Kurdi- number of functioning public health of people affected by the on-going con- stan Region. Low immunization cov- centres has been decreasing daily since flict. erage, and compromised access to early June 2014. The capacity of health The recent upsurge in violence, massive quality health care are among main facilities in Sinjar, Tel Afar, Tikrit and population movements, and presence of health concerns. On-going insecurity Hamdiniyah has been greatly affected, over 250,000 Syrian refugees in north- compounds the crisis. with Tel Afar hospital reportedly dam- ern Iraq is straining an already belea- The threat of infectious disease out- aged by explosions, although still partly guered health system. The KSA dona- breaks, like cholera, diarrhoeal dis- functional. tion, the largest ever humanitarian eases, measles and hepatitis E, has “Even before the current crisis, Iraq’s contribution to WHO for a specific cri- increased due to population displace- health system and the health of its sis, enables the organization to scale ments and health system strains. The people were facing major challenges,” up its response to disease outbreaks, disease control project aims to halve says Dr Syed Jaffar Hussain, WHO’s malnutrition, medicine shortages and the number of acute watery diarrhoea Representative to Iraq. “This has only overburdened hospitals and clinics. cases, and increase childhood immun- been exacerbated by the new waves of Humanitarian health care providers ization coverage, particularly in insecurity in many parts of the coun- will tackle medical complications re- Anbar, where the polio vaccination try.” sulting from malnutrition by providing coverage rate will rise from 48% to WHO support aims to expand access to targeted support to 350,000 people, over 94%. health services, including emergency including children under the age of five, Access to health services in conflict- obstetric care for expectant mothers, pregnant and lactating women and affected areas has been greatly com- noncommunicable disease care and patients suffering from severe malnu- promised. Most hospitals and clinics psychosocial support, to a wider catch- trition,” says Dr Syed Jaffar Hussain, can no longer cope with the influx of ment area of people. Volume 1, Issue 4 Vulnerable groups Page 28

UNICEF scales up humanitarian response in northern Iraq

Erbil, 19 August, 2014 – In response immediately empower families to pro- to UNICEF’s mass humanitarian, sup- to the continuing humanitarian crisis vide their children with basic necessi- ply-driven operation of relief and assis- in Iraq, UNICEF and the Governorate ties when market access exists.” tance. Since 2nd August, UNICEF has of Dahuk have signed a USD $5 mil- The cash assistance initiative will see dispatched 89 truckloads, or more than lion dollar agreement supporting one- UNICEF contribute USD $5 million to 60 metric tons, of humanitarian aid time direct cash assistance to vulnera- the joint effort, which the Governorate including safe drinking water for ble, displaced families in the Gover- will then distribute to displaced fami- 162,000 displaced people, supplemen- norate. lies as unconditional one-time grants in tary food (such as high protein biscuits) “I spoke to the displaced people in order to provide them with the means for 92,000 people, and emergency Bajet Kandala, Zakho, and Khanke,” to purchase basic goods on the local health kits serving 100,000 people, said Dr. Marzio Babille, UNICEF Iraq market. These cash transfers will ena- among other items. In the next five Representative. “I witnessed families ble families to establish their own pri- days, UNICEF will receive nearly 200 crossing the bridge at Peshkabour. orities and also directly contribute to metric tons of additional relief supplies While we are massively scaling up host community economies. via airlift and by sea. outreach activities, cash in hand will This agreement comes as a complement

Horrifying accounts of child rights violations emerge from survivors of violence in north-western Iraq

Dohuk, 19 August 2014 – On the 11th groups living in areas of Ninewa prov- the provision of specialist mental Anniversary of the Canal Hotel bomb- ince close to the border with Syria. So health care, and medical support as ing in Iraq, commemorated by World far, 80 of these cases have been veri- part of the broader response to this Humanitarian day, it is unfortunate fied during investigations carried out unfolding tragedy," said Sesay. that detailed testimonies gathered from by UNICEF under its work within the UNICEF has so far provided psycho- civilians who fled the recent offensive Monitoring and Reporting Mechanism social care and support to more than by armed groups in the Sinjar district (MRM) on grave violations of chil- 3,000 distressed refugee children now of north-western Iraq have revealed dren's rights in situations of armed sheltering in the Kurdish region of Do- appalling accounts of killing, abduction conflict (see below**). huk. and sexual violence perpetrated against "Almost every individual we have women and children, according to spoken to has given a horrific account UNICEF. of violations they or members of their "The type and scope of violations family or community have witnessed against children, women and minority or experienced," said Ibrahim Sesay, communities in Iraq in the past weeks UNICEF child protection specialist. is one of the worst seen in this century, One sixteen-year old Yazidi girl told and is completely unacceptable by any interviewers how she was rounded up standards or codes of conduct that gov- with other women and girls selected ern conflict," said Dr. Marzio Babille, to provide sexual services under a UNICEF Iraq Representative. forced temporary marriage. The girl Child protection specialist teams sent said she managed to escape but that by the agency have so far documented others were taken away. 123 separate cases of rights violations "The agony these girls and women are carried out by armed groups when they now suffering as a result of such or- attacked Yazidi and other minority deals requires an urgent scaling up in Volume 1, Issue 4 Cultural heritage Page 29 Emergency Response Action Plan to safeguard Iraqi heritage

Paris, 18 July 2014 - UNESCO orga- itage. (ICOMOS), the International Federa- nized yesterday a consultation with The Plan furthermore urges close moni- tion of Library Associations and Insti- Iraqi and international cultural herit- toring of the state of conservation of tutions (IFLA), Interpol, the Blue age experts and agreed on an Emergen- heritage and training of conservation Shield and UNESCO. cy Response Action Plan to safeguard professionals while helping those in György Busztin, Deputy Special Repre- Iraq’s rich and diverse cultural herit- place prepare emergency measures for sentative of the Secretary-General for age. the possible relocation of moveable Iraq, spoke to participants over the The Plan is intended to secure the coop- heritage, including libraries. telephone from Baghdad and pledged eration of all stakeholders, including Director-General of UNESCO, Irina his support to the Action Plan saying national and international organiza- Bokova, explained that “humanitarian that “cultural heritage preservation tions, humanitarian relief workers in and security concerns are inseparable will contribute to a better, peaceful the field, art dealers, international mu- from culture. Protecting the lives of future for the country.” seums and law enforcement authori- people, their cultural heritage and Bokova calls for immediate protection ties, in safeguarding Iraq’s heritage. identity go hand in hand,” she said, of the cultural diversity of Iraq Participants highlighted a range of pledging that “UNESCO will continue threats facing Iraq’s heritage: damage mobilizing the United Nations Organi- caused by armed conflict, deliberate zation and the whole international Paris, 8 August 2014 - The Director- destruction, illicit excavation of archae- community to safeguard Iraq’s cultural General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova, ological sites and illicit trafficking in heritage with particular emphasis on today expressed alarm at reports of the artefacts, whether from museum collec- the fight against illicit trafficking in systematic persecution of, and attacks tions or from uncontrolled excavations. cultural property.” on the vulnerable Christian, Turkmen, and Yazidi communities in the north of They also voiced concern for the coun- Chaired by Kishore Rao, Director of Iraq, and its cultural and religious her- try’s rich libraries and manuscript col- UNESCO’s Heritage Division and in- itage, notably churches, shrines and lections. Nevertheless, the experts terim Assistant UNESCO Director- monuments. pointed out that there were many gaps General for Culture, the meeting “What appears to be an emerging cul- in information available which are brought together Iraqi experts and tural cleansing must stop immediately. making it impossible to draw a compre- representatives of the International Attacks against civilians and minority hensive inventory of the state of conser- Centre for the Study of the Preserva- groups are in direct violation of human- vation of Iraqi heritage today. tion of and Restoration of Cultural itarian law, as stated by the UN Secre- The Action Plan also aims to ensure the Property (ICCROM), the International tary General and the UN Security implementation of international agree- Council on Museums (ICOM), Interna- Council. ments on the protection of cultural her- tional Council on Monuments and Sites “They are also a direct blow on the cultural diversity, which is a defining UNESCO condemns violations of academic freedoms in Iraq characteristic of humanity. It is unacceptable that people are denied their Baghdad, 07 August 2014 – ing the discrimination between women most fundamental rights, that they are “UNESCO is alarmed on recent reports and men, be they university faculty, systematically persecuted and killed on violations of academic freedoms in staff or students, is unacceptable. because of their beliefs, ethnic origin or various universities in Iraq, namely the Iraq’s higher education institutions cultural expressions. The protection of University of Mosul, the University of must remain zones of peace, zones of people is inseparable from the protec- Tikrit, the University of Anbar in freedom for critical enquiry, learning tion of their cultures, living expressions Ramadi and the University of Diyala in and service to the community and and heritage. Baqubah” said Axel Plathe, Director zones of equal educational opportuni- “I call for an immediate stop to these UNESCO Office for Iraq and UNESCO ties for women and men. violent attacks and for the protection of Representative to Iraq. the diversity that has forged the wealth and vitality of Iraqi culture over the Reports indicate that professors, re- UNESCO urges the respect of the pro- millennia, as a unique testimony of the searchers and students are increasingly visions of the “Recommendation con- development of civilization and peace- exposed to pressure. For example, cerning the Status of Higher-Education ful coexistence. I also reiterate my call study programmes, in particular in the Teaching Personnel” of 1997 that con- on all Iraqis to stand united in protect- areas of law, religious sciences natural stitutes an international standard to be ing their unique cultural heritage,” the sciences, education and fine arts are upheld in the interest of higher educa- Director-General said. being altered. In addition, the principle tion internationally and within a coun- Iraq is a State Party to the 2005 of co-education is being jeopardized. try. UNESCO Convention on the Protection Higher education and research are in- According to the Recommendation, all and promotion of the diversity of Cul- strumental in the pursuit, advance- higher-education teaching personnel tural Expressions. ment and transfer of knowledge and should have the right to fulfil their constitute an exceptionally rich cultur- functions without discrimination of any al and scientific asset for Iraq. They kind and without fear of repression by must not become targets of ideological the state or any other source. Higher- indoctrination. education teaching personnel should The principle of academic freedom must not be forced to instruct against their be scrupulously observed. Higher edu- own best knowledge and conscience or cation teaching personnel are entitled be forced to use curricula and methods to the maintaining of academic free- contrary to national and international dom. Any form of discrimination includ- human rights standards. Volume 1, Issue 4 UNAMI mandate Page 30 Security Council extends mandate of United Nations mission in Iraq, text calls for security, logistical support from Government, welcomes member state help

New York, 30 July 2014 - The Securi- “Expressing grave concern at the cur- national unity, and stressing the im- ty Council today extended the mandate rent security situation in Iraq as a re- portance of a comprehensive and inclu- of the United Nations Assistance Mis- sult of a large-scale offensive carried sive Iraqi-led political process to sup- sion for Iraq (UNAMI) for another year out by terrorist groups, in particular port dialogue for all those who re- until 31 July 2015. the Islamic State in Iraq and the Le- nounce violence, have no links to inter- vant (ISIL), and associated armed national terrorist organizations includ- The 15-member body adopted resolu- groups, involving a steep escalation of ing ISIL, and respect the constitution, tion 2169 (2014) unanimously, deciding attacks, heavy human casualties in- that both UNAMI and the Special Rep- “Reiterating its praise for Iraq’s Inde- cluding children, the displacement of resentative of the Secretary-General pendent High Electoral Commission more than 1 million Iraqi civilians, and would continue to pursue their man- (IHEC), the Iraqi security forces, and the threats against all religious and dates. the Iraqi people, candidates and coali- ethnic groups,condemning the attacks tions for the successful holding of par- It called for security and logistical sup- perpetrated by these terrorist groups liamentary elections despite the securi- port from the Iraqi Government and and associated armed groups, in partic- ty challenges Iraq faces, welcomed financial, logistical and other ular the events in Anbar Province in support from other Member States. January 2014 and the city of Mosul and “Encouraging the Government of Iraq other parts of the country in June 2014 to continue strengthening democracy The Council also requested the Secre- by ISIL, against the people of Iraq in and the rule of law, improving security tary-General to report on the Mission’s an attempt to destabilize the country and public order, combating terrorism fulfilment of its responsibilities every and region, and reiterating its commit- and sectarian violence, and countering three months and expressed its inten- ment to Iraq’s security and territorial incitement motivated by extremism tion to review the mandate in 12 integrity, and intolerance across the country, and months or sooner, if requested by Iraq’s reiterating its support to the people Government. ““Noting that the advance of ISIL on and the Government of Iraq in their Iraq’s sovereign territory is a major During the meeting, the Council had efforts to build a secure, stable, federal, threat to Iraq’s future, underscoring before it the Secretary-General’s report united and democratic nation, based on that the only way to address this threat (document S/2014/480) pursuant to the rule of law and respect for human is for all Iraqis to work together by paragraph 4 of resolution 2107 (2013), rights, addressing needs in the security as well and the Secretary-General’s report as the political realm, stressing the “Emphasizing the need to continue (document S/2014/485) pursuant to long-term solution to the instability efforts to promote international and paragraph 6 of resolution 2110 (2013). will require the political leadership of regional cooperation aimed at support- Resolution Iraq to make decisions that will unite ing Iraq and to prevent terrorist groups included on the sanctions list estab- The full text of resolution 2169 (2014) the country, and emphasizing the im- lished by the Committee pursuant to reads as follows: portance of the international community supporting Iraq in this regard, resolutions 1267 (1999) and 1989 “The Security Council, (2011), in particular ISIL, from using “Calling on all political entities to over- the territories of Iraq and neighbouring “Recalling all its previous relevant res- come divisions and work together in an States to carry out violence or other olutions on Iraq, in particular 1500 inclusive and timely political process illicit acts to destabilize Iraq and the (2003), 1546 (2004), 1557 (2004), 1619 aimed at strengthening Iraq’s national region, expressing its readiness to sanc- (2005), 1700 (2006), 1770 (2007), 1830 unity, sovereignty and independence; tion further individuals, groups, under- (2008), 1883 (2009), 1936 (2010), 2001 and for Iraq’s leaders to engage, as takings and entities who are support- (2011), 2061 (2012), 2110 (2013), and quickly as possible, to form a Govern- ing ISIL, also expressing grave concern resolution 2107 (2013) on the situation ment that represents the will and sov- over reports of access to and seizure of between Iraq and Kuwait, ereignty of all segments of the Iraqi oilfields and pipelines in Iraq by terror- population and that would contribute “Reaffirming the independence, sover- ist groups listed by the Committee, to finding a viable and sustainable so- eignty, unity and territorial integrity of strongly condemning any engagement lution to the country’s current challeng- Iraq, in direct or indirect trade in oil from es; and reaffirming its belief that Iraq involving these terrorist groups, “Emphasizing the importance of the through its democratic institutions, in and emphasizing that such engagement stability and security of Iraq for the cooperation with Iraqi society, Iraq can constitutes financial support for such people of Iraq, the region, and the in- work to address the challenges facing terrorists and may lead to further sanc- ternational community, the country for the benefit of all Iraqis, tions listings by the Committee, “Underscoring the need for all segments of the Iraqi population to partici- pate in the political process, an inclusive political dialogue, and in the economic and social life of Iraq, to refrain from statements and actions which could aggravate tensions, to reach a comprehensive solution on the fair distribution of resources, and to ensure stability and develop a just and fair solution for the nation’s disputed internal boundaries and work to strengthen Volume 1, Issue 4 UNAMI Mandate Page 31 Security Council Resolution 2169 (cont.)

“Reaffirming the importance of the fronting the Iraqi people, stressing the “Expressing deep gratitude to all the United Nations, in particular the Unit- need to continue to plan and implement United Nations staff in Iraq for their ed Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq a coordinated response and to provide courageous and tireless efforts, and (UNAMI), in advising, supporting and adequate resources to address these commending the leadership and good assisting the Iraqi people, including issues, encouraging Member States to offices role of the Secretary-General’s civil society, and Government to support the United Nations’ humani- Special Representative for Iraq, strengthen democratic institutions, tarian response in Iraq, working with Nickolay Mladenov, advance inclusive political dialogue and the Government of Iraq, to assist all “1. Decides to extend the mandate of national reconciliation according to the Iraqi individuals affected by the ongo- the United Nations Assistance Mission Constitution, facilitate regional dia- ing conflict, and commending the ef- for Iraq (UNAMI) until 31 July 2015; logue, develop processes acceptable to forts of Member States that have con- the Government of Iraq to resolve distributed to the humanitarian effort, “2. Decides further that the Special puted internal boundaries, aid youth Representative of the Secretary- “Underscoring the sovereignty of the and vulnerable groups including refu- General and UNAMI, at the request of Government of Iraq, reaffirming that gees and internally displaced persons, the Government of Iraq, and taking all parties should continue to take all promote the protection of human into account the letter from the Minis- feasible steps and to develop modalities rights, gender equality, children and ter for Foreign Affairs of Iraq to the to ensure the protection of affected ci- youth, and vulnerable groups, and pro- Secretary-General (S/2014/523, annex), vilians, including children, women and mote judicial and legal reform, and shall continue to pursue their mandate members of religious and ethnic minor- emphasizing the importance of the as stipulated in resolution 2110 (2013); ity groups, and should create conditions United Nations, in particular UNAMI, and recalls the provisions of resolution conducive to the voluntary, safe, digni- prioritizing advice, support, and assis- 2107 (2013); fied, and sustainable return of refugees tance to the Iraqi people, including civil and internally displaced persons or “3. Recognizes that security of United society, and Government to achieve local integration of internally displaced Nations personnel is essential for UN- these goals, persons, welcoming commitments and AMI to carry out its work for the bene- “Urging the Government of Iraq to con- encouraging continued efforts of the fit of the people of Iraq and calls upon tinue to promote and protect human Government of Iraq for the relief of the Government of Iraq to continue to rights and also to consider additional internally displaced persons, refugees provide security and logistical support steps to support the Independent High and returnees, noting the important to the United Nations presence in Iraq; Commission for Human Rights in car- role of the Office of the United Nations “4. Welcomes the contributions of rying out its mandate, High Commissioner for Refugees, based Member States in providing UNAMI on its mandate, in providing continued “Recognizing the efforts of the Govern- with the financial, logistical, and secu- advice and support to the Government ment of Iraq in the promotion and pro- rity resources and support that it needs of Iraq, in coordination with UNAMI on tection of the rights of women and reaf- to fulfil its mission and calls upon these issues, andencouraging the Gov- firming its resolutions 1325 (2000), Member States to continue to provide ernment of Iraq to continue working 1820 (2008), 1888 (2009), 1889 (2009), UNAMI with sufficient resources and with UNAMI and humanitarian agen- 1960 (2010), 2106 (2013), and 2122 support; cies to ensure the delivery of humani- (2013) on women, peace, and security tarian relief to those in need, “5. Expresses its intention to review and reiterating the need for the full, the mandate of UNAMI in 12 months equal, and effective participation of “Urging all those concerned to comply or sooner, if requested by the Govern- women; calling on all parties to protect fully with international humanitarian ment of Iraq; the civilian population, in particular law, including the Geneva Conventions women and children, especially in light and the Hague Regulations, as applica- “6. Requests the Secretary-General to of recent violence; expressing grave ble, and to allow full unimpeded access report to the Council every three concern at the recruitment and use of by humanitarian personnel to all peo- months on the progress made towards children by ISIL and other armed ple in need of assistance, and to make the fulfilment of all UNAMI’s responsi- groups in violation of international law; available, as far as possible, all neces- bilities; reaffirming the key role women can sary facilities for their operations, and “7. Decides to remain seized of the play in re-establishing the fabric of to promote the safety, security and matter.” society and stressing the need for their freedom of movement of humanitarian full political participation, including in personnel and United Nations staff, its peace and political-decision making associated personnel and their assets, processes and the development of na- and also to respect and protect health tional strategies in order to take into care workers and medical transport account their perspectives, and looking and facilities, forward to the full implementation of “Recognizing that the situation that Iraq’s National Action Plan on Security now exists in Iraq is significantly dif- Council resolution 1325 (2000), ferent from that which existed at the “Expressing grave concern for the more time of the adoption of resolution 661 than one million individuals seeking (1990), and further recognizing the refuge in other areas of Iraq, reiterat- importance of Iraq achieving interna- ing its gratitude to the host communi- tional standing equal to that which it ties, emphasizing the importance of held prior to the adoption of resolution addressing humanitarian issues con- 661 (1990), Volume 1, Issue 4 World Humanitarian Day Page 32 On World Humanitarian Day, the UN Iraq renews its commitment to relieve the plight of the displaced

Baghdad, 19 August 2014 – “Today, frightened, homeless and homesick, the humanitarian community to also 19 August, as we remember our fallen struggling for survival and dignity, at step up their efforts to alleviate their colleagues who perished in an attack on risk of gender-based violence”. suffering”. the UN Headquarters in Baghdad 11 “On this occasion, I renew the commit- “Our ongoing work, today, here in Iraq, years ago, we must also pay tribute to ment of the United Nations family in is the best possible tribute to those who the countless national and internation- Iraq to redouble efforts to ensure pro- perished eleven years ago, and the best al humanitarian workers in Iraq who tection and support to those Iraqis recognition of the humanitarian work- continue to face danger and adversity seeking refuge within the borders of ers’ contribution to alleviate the suffer- to bring lifesaving assistance to those their own country”, Mr. Mladenov de- ing of those who had their lives thorn in need, and remember their sacrifices”, clared, calling on the Government and apart. the Special Representative of the Unit- ed Nations Secretary-General for Iraq (SRSG), Mr. Nickolay Mladenov said. “More than ever this year, as violence and daily fighting remain sadly widespread, uprooting hundreds of thousands of Iraqis, killing and maiming thousands others, Iraqis count on humanitarian workers for their very survival”, Mr. Mladenov added. “Internally Displaced People are among the most vulnerable”, he noted, underlining that “they are traumatized and

UN mission in Iraq marks World Humanitarian Day

Iraq, 19 August 2014 -The United survival, we should honour the aid nity in Iraq. Nations family in Iraq (UN Iraq) workers who rush bravely to help peo- In Baghdad, UNAMI Chief of Staff marked World Humanitarian Day ple in need and remember their sacri- Mark Rutgers said, “We also recollect with two commemoration events held fices. He added, "We are all here today, other humanitarian actors, colleagues at the same time at UNAMI head- united against violence and terror, and friends that perished in the quarters in Baghdad and in Erbil. united around the ideals and values of course of their duties… the list goes UN staff members gathered for the the United Nations and united to self- on, filling page after page. Sadly, outdoor ceremonies that started at lessly work for the people of Iraq.” those beneath the UN’s flag, and 9:00 a.m. to commemorate the 11th “We have over a million people who more broadly the humanitarian com- anniversary of the 19 August 2003 need us, they need political support, munity, are no longer afforded the bombing of the Canal Hotel, the for- they need food, they need water, they respect and the protection from bel- mer UN office in Iraq. The UN lost 22 need shelter, they need psycho-social ligerent parties in the fulfillment of members of its family on that tragic support, they are the people that we their calling: meeting the humanitar- day. are here to work for”, underlined WFP ian imperative.” As choir members from the UN Guard Representative Ms. Jane Pearce, who A UN staff member who survived the Unit from Fiji sang hymns, staff represented the humanitarian commu- 2003 bombing also spoke and called members in both locations assembled for “courage and determination in the around the UN flag for the commemo- face of terrorism in order to build a ration ceremonies, which included a new and peaceful Iraq”. minute of silence in memory of the We remember our fallen colleagues, fallen, and a wreath-laying to honour today and always. the supreme sacrifice of the 22 colleagues who fell in the line of duty 11 UNAMI Herald is published bi- years ago. monthly by the Public Information On the occasion of World Humanitari- Office of the United Nations Assis- an Day 2014, Special Representative tance Mission for Iraq. of the Secretary-General for Iraq Nickolay Mladenov stressed, “Our PIO Director: Eliana Nabaa ongoing work here in Iraq is the best Editor-in-Chief: Ivan Djordjevic possible tribute to those who perished Editorial Board: Eliana Nabaa, Khalid eleven years ago, and the best recog- Dahab, Ivan Djordjevic, Laila Shamji, nition of humanitarian workers’ con- Fabienne Vinet, Aurora Alambra, Sar- tribution to alleviate the suffering of mad Al-Safy. those who had their lives torn apart”. In Erbil, Deputy SRSG Gyorgy Buszt- Photos: UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe, in said, “More than ever this year, UNAMI, UNHCR, UNCHR, UNICEF, where millions of people count on IOM, OCHA, UNFPA, WHO and humanitarian workers for their very WFP.