National Strategic and Executive Plan for Mine Action 2017-2021

قاﺮﻌﻟا ﺔﯾرﻮﮭﻤﺟ REPUBIC OF IRAQ MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND ﺔﺌﯿﺒﻟاو ﺔﺤﺼﻟا ةرازو دﺪﻌﻟا يرازﻮﻟا ﺮﻣﻷا ﺔﻨﺠﻟ: ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE OF MINISTERAL ORDER /غ د(No. 32 in 12/ 04/ 2016 ( 32/ 4 ﻲﻓ12 /4 /2016

And say, “Do [as you will], for Allah will see your deeds, and [so, will] His Messenger and the believers.”

God Almighty has spoken the truth

Al Tawba 105

Table of Contents

Table of Contents………………………………………………………….………………...3 Introduction……………………………………………………………………….………… 4 Vision………………………………………………………………………………….………6 Mission………………………………………………………………………………….…….8 Challenges facing the implementation of the plan……………………………….8 Context……………………………………………………………………………………...10 Applicable Laws……………………………………………………………….…...10 Ensuring progress through………………………………………………..………10 Vision realisation mechanisms will be adopted through………………….……10 Facing challenges and risks through…………………………………...………..10 Comprehensive and concentrated response to threats through……….……..11 Developing active entities working in the Mine Action sector through…….....11 Effective responses through……………………………………….……………..11 Highlighting the Mine Action Programme through…………….………………..11 Mission Implementation Mechanism………………………………..…………………...12 Roles & Responsibilities………………………………….……………………….12 Provinces’ Role…………………………………………………………………….15 Strategic Objectives………………………………………………..………………16 Values and Principles Adopted by the Committee……………………………..23 Current Capabilities………...………………………………...……………23 Enhancing Mine Action Programme Capabilities……………….………25 Observation & Assessment………………………………………….……………26 Strategy Achievement Enabling Factors……………………………..………….28 Regulation of the Supporting Role of Non-Governmental Organisations (international & national)…………………………………………………..………………29 Sources & References…………………………………………………………….31

Appendices: Appendix A: List of Concepts Appendix B: Surveys Results Appendix C: Strategy Analysis Appendix D: Operational Plans, Risk Education and Victim Assistance

INTRODUCTION: Explosive Hazards (EH) are amongst the most prominent challenges facing the Iraqi Government as a result of wars waged by the former regime of Iraq from the 1970s until 2003, especially the Iraq – Iran War during the 1980s and the military operations in Gulf War 1 and 2 in 1990 and 2003, as well as the terrorist attacks that followed. The Mine Action Programme began in Kurdistan Region in Iraq in the early 1990s as part of the Oil for Food Programme. There was no implementation of any other programme regulating Mine Action in Iraq beyond Kurdistan Region until the National Mine Action Commission was formed in 2003, within the structure of Ministry of Planning & Developmental Cooperation, funded by the countries cooperating with Iraq within the international coalition in support of the democratic change process. The main goal of establishing this strategy is to regulate and coordinate the efforts of concerned entities in order to achieve the goals set out in this document and to fulfill Iraqi Government commitments under the relevant international conventions: a. Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (APMBC) – also known as the Ottawa Treaty, which Iraq became a party to on 15 August 2007, and which subsequently entered into force on 1 February 2008. b. Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) – the treaty whose terms include the prohibition of the use of cluster bombs, which Iraq became a party to on 14 May 2013, and which subsequently entered into force on 1 November 2013. c. Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW) [Protocol II, IV and V], which Iraq became a party to on 24 September 2014, and which subsequently, came into force on 24 March 2015. d. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which Iraq became a party to in 21 January 2012, and which subsequently, came into force in 20 March 2014.

After the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) gained entry to several Iraqi provinces (Ninawa, Salahddin, Anbar) in 2014 and vandalised areas around Baghdad and Babylon, it resulted in widespread EH contamination, such as Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and Explosive Remnants of War (ERW). This led to the emergence of a new and tough challenge to the Mine Action Programme due to the extent of areas contaminated and the complexity of IEDs being used in defensive laid minefield-type patterns, residential areas and private houses. Chemical weapons were also used. The strategic plan was drafted after analysis, consultation and coordination with the relevant ministries and other bodies and civil society organisations, including Non- Governmental Organisations (NGOs). It guides the roles of all ministries relevant to the Mine Action Programme as an essential condition for the success of this mutual strategy. The plan took into consideration the governmental programme and National Security Strategy for 2016-2021.

VISION: An Iraq free from EH, where everyone lives in a safe environment, contributes to community development and where victims are integrated into the society with their needs being covered, able to live decent lives. a. Mines map illustrating the difference between 2004 and 2016:

b. ERW map illustrating the difference between 2004 and 2016:

MISSION:

The mission is for Iraq to have an effective and efficient Mine Action programme through: a. Limiting the effect of IEDs, mines and ERW on the civilians, as well as enhancing development and infrastructure programmes in accordance with the National Mine Action Standards (NMAS). b. Conducting Risk Education for communities in close proximity to contaminated areas as an essential part of this strategy, in addition to highlighting the threats posed by EH through media, civil society organisations and in international forums in order to help Iraq get rid of this danger. c. Providing health and psychological support to the victims of EH and reintegrating them into the society. d. Endorsing Government commitments under the international conventions in relation to Mine Action. e. Utilising all capabilities available to all stakeholders to reduce the risks posed by EH. f. Ensuring cooperation and effective coordination amongst all entities relevant to the Mine Action Programme. g. Facilitating mutual planning for implementation based on accurate information and data. h. Implementing all aforementioned activities in partnership with civil society organisations. Challenges facing the implementation of the plan: - The change in the size and nature of contamination due to the criminal activity of ISIL. - The occupation of the governmental effort with the liberation and military operations. - The financial difficulties facing the Iraqi state. - The decrease in the number of international orgnisations working in mine action due to the lack of funding. - The radical climate: high temperature, floods, soil erosion…

Chart: surface of hazardous areas according to the type of contamination (current situation)

After ISIL Before ISIL

Confirmed Hazardous Area (CHA): Areas in which Explosive Hazards are identified following survey and recorded in the Information Management System for Mine Action (IMSMA) database of the Directorate of Mine Action (DMA). Suspected Hazardous Areas (SHA): Areas that are surveyed and suspected to contain Explosive Hazards.

Context: During the lifetime of this strategic plan emphasis will be placed on the following: a. Applicable Laws: 1. Civil Defense Law No. 44 of 2013. 2. Persons with Disabilities & Special Needs Care Commission Law No. 38 of 2013. 3. Military Operations & Terrorism Affected Persons Compensation Law No. 30 of 2009. 4. War Operations Affected Persons Law Amendment No. 57 of 2015. 5. Social Protection Law No. 11 of 2014. 6. Weapon Law No. 13 of 1992 as amended. 7. Environment Protection & Improvement Law (as an ultimate goal to reach a safe environment).

b. Ensuring progress through: 1. Planning and implementing activities to reduce the number of IEDs, mines and ERW. 2. Assessing the impact of National Government Mine Action plans and strategies. 3. Enhancing and evaluating the capacity of existing capabilities, potentials and competencies. 4. Monitoring the validity of information management systems. 5. Reviewing outputs of previous assessments. 6. Analyzing stakeholders to identify the requirements necessary for essential priority setting.

c. Vision realisation mechanisms will be adopted through: 7. Complying with relevant conventions, protocols and work plans, to include adhering to the associated reporting mechanisms. 8. Preparing and distributing additional forms to fulfill the rights and needs of the victims of EH in accordance with the national laws and the international humanitarian law, and the provision of the economic and social standards for victims. 9. Ensuring efficiency and effectiveness of EH related operations through updating national standards and regulatory requirements.

d. Facing challenges and risks through: 10. Updating and prioritising information regarding ‘legacy contamination’ as well as new EH contamination resulting from ongoing conflict. 11. Reducing the impact of EH and thereby supporting economic and social recovery.

12. Promoting new technologies to better enable survey and clearance operations, as well as exploring ways to expand the effective delivery of Risk Education and Victim Assistance initiatives. 13. Advocating for, and facilitating, international Mine Action partners to become involved in removing the threats posed by EH.

e. Comprehensive and concentrated response to threats through: 14. Highlighting the desperate need for the protection of at-risk populations as a result of past and ongoing conflict, including refugees, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and returnees. 15. Prioritising the safety of Mine Action sector workers, including the provision of healthcare in emergency cases.

f. Developing active entities working in the Mine Action sector through: 16. Linking the laws and regulations of the operating entities to the Mine Action Programmes’ vision in order to facilitate the management, coordination and implementation processes. 17. Providing the necessary logistical resources and support to enable the conduct of Mine Action activities, as well as mitigating identified risks to ensure a safe operating environment. 18. Expanding and facilitating operational and explosive management training packages. 19. Developing and equipping entities operating in the Mine Action sector, such as the training academies of the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Interior. 20. Coordinating and encouraging concerned international and local organisations and their donors to provide assistance and aid with regards to training, equipment, consultancies, information and implementation.

g. Effective responses through: 21. Determining the main roles and responsibilities of supporting operational entities to achieve planned objectives. 22. Utilising evidence-based decision making. 23. Supporting effective programing requirements to observe and assess all evidence-related data. 24. Improving IT systems. 25. Strengthening focus on the impact of EH. 26. Developing relevant national research centers.

h. Highlighting the Mine Action Programme through: 27. Consolidating the Mine Action Programme within the National Development Plan and Governmental Work Programme. 28. Consolidating the Mine Action Programme within the international aid plans.

29. Integrating social, economic, and humanitarian security and safety, including the UN Security Council Resolution No.1325 on gender, into Mine Action Programme planning and implementation. 30. Reiterating the negative social, economic and security impact that EH contamination has on the country, and highlighting this to the leaders, legislatures, judicial authorities and international community. 31. Highlighting to the international community through all relevant channels the requirements of achieving the planned objectives, as they are a real contribution to supporting security and peace in Iraq, which in turn will positively impact the international security and peace. 32. Taking into consideration the National Security Strategy topics and clauses related to the implementation of this strategy.

MISSION’S IMPLEMENTATION MECHANISM: The High National Committee (presided over by the Prime Minister and membership of the Ministers of the other relevant Ministries) supervises the Mine Action Programme in Iraq and approves the covenants, protocols and memorandums of understanding. The Directorate of Mine Action (DMA) is responsible for the programme coordination and management functions, including the strategic planning process in cooperation with all parties and main operators of the programme from government authorities (Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Interior, other relevant ministries) and with the non-governmental entities (Agencies of the United Nations, donor countries, international community, non-governmental organisations and authorised companies) and all others concerned with the Mine Action sector. a. Roles and Responsibilities:

An MoU was signed between all the ministries playing major roles in the Mine Action program (MoD, MoI, Ministry of Environment). The MoU aims at regulating the roles and responsibilities of each party under the Humanitarian Mine Action program ran by DMA through a strategic timeline that allows this document to be amended to answer to emerging challenges. That would guarantee the best outcomes from this strategy.

1. Relevant Entities Liabilities: i. Ministry of Defense Responsibilities: a) Planning and implementing survey and marking operations of EH contaminated areas within the Republic of Iraq, including operations implemented by international and Iraqi organisations and companies through the participation in their respective board of directors as liaison officers. b) All cleared IEDs, mines and ERW will be the property of the Ministry of Defense and no entity may use them. Under the

Ottawa Treaty obligations, all anti-personnel mines are to be destroyed in accordance with international standards. c) The importation and use of explosives shall be undertaken in coordination with the Ministry of Environment. d) The importation of all equipment and devices used by the companies and organisations operating in the Mine Action sector shall be in coordination with the Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Defense, and the end-user certificate shall be signed by the Prime Minister and General Commander of the Armed Forces. e) Providing protection to any civil or military efforts in support of EH survey and clearance. f) Attaining detailed information about the EH contamination from relevant entities inside and outside Iraq, and providing the Ministry of Environment and other relevant ministries with such information in coordination and comparison with the information available at the Ministry of Environment. g) Providing a detailed status to the Ministry of Environment about all past, current and future survey and clearance operations by the Mine Cell at the Infrastructure Operation Center of the Ministry of Defense. h) The Ministry of Defense shall carry out the responsibilities above in coordination with the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Environment. ii. Ministry of Interior Responsibilities: a) The Ministry of Interior, Civil Defense Directorate and other Resources at the Ministry shall take on the non-fissured projectiles removal operations and abandoned equipment in accordance with the content of the Civil Defense obligations and in light of Resolution No. 18 of 1992. b) The Ministry of Interior, Civil Defense Directorate and other Resources at the Ministry shall gather the non-fissured equipment and projectiles within its responsibilities, and it shall hand them to the nearest military engineering unit of the Ministry of Defense in prior coordination with the Ministry of Environment and Ministry of Defense. c) The Ministry of Interior shall request the Ministry of Defense to provide explosives needed by the civil defense squads for ERW that require on-site destruction. d) Participating with the Ministry of Defense to provide the necessary protection to any civil body carrying out survey and clearance operations in cities and towns. e) The Ministry of Interior shall submit any information related to the past, current and future survey and clearance operations to the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Environment.

f) The Ministry of Interior shall carry out the responsibilities above in coordination with the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Environment. iii. Ministry of Environment Responsibilities: Plan and coordinate with stated entities listed below to benefit from their capabilities in the Mine Action sector, which are: 1st: The United Nations and donor states. 2nd: All ministries of the Republic of Iraq. 3rd: National organisations and companies specialised in Mine Action. 4th: International organisations and companies specialised in Mine Action. To authorise the international and national organisations and companies to work only after they are carefully identified by the Ministry of Interior, Intelligence Agency and other security departments. To coordinate with the United Nations and international organisations about the following points: 1st: To train civil and military staff, as well as the civil defense members to develop their capabilities. 2nd: To procure the most modern equipment and special devices of EH clearance in coordination with the Ministry of Defense and specify the type and quantity of required equipment and devices. To provide the Ministry of Defense with a detailed report of all demining operations already being carried out by the non-military entities. (The importation of explosives and detonators used by the organisations and companies conducting survey and clearance operations shall be the responsibility of the Ministry of Environment in coordination with the Ministry of Defense. The said materials shall be stored in state warehouses belonging to the Ministry of Defense. They shall only be issued in coordination between the two Ministries and as per necessity. The national and international companies will bear the costs of explosives and detonators in accordance with schedules of quantities determined by the DMA in coordination with the Military Engineering Unit). iv. Common Responsibilities of the three Ministries: - The international and national entities shall be authorised to work by the three Ministries. - The Ministries shall comply with the following mechanism upon conducting the demining process: 1st: All State Ministries shall submit a request to the Ministry of Environment when the presence of EH are obstructing their projects. 2nd: The Ministry of Environment shall present the project submitted to one of the two Ministries as per competency and responsibilities

and pursuant to 1st in order to demonstrate the ability to survey and clear with regards to both practical and security aspects. In case of refusal to do so, the Ministry of Environment shall assign national or international companies and organisations and the national ones shall be given priority. 3rd: The Ministry of Environment shall take control over the areas cleared by the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Interior. 4th: The Ministry of Defense (Military Engineering Directorate) shall make an inventory of and destroy all EH removed by civil defense squads, companies, national or international organisations.

Provinces' roles: 1. Setting priorities of provinces as per humanitarian matters, infrastructure projects and comprehensive clearance in coordination and cooperation with the Directorate of Mine Action. 2. Forming ad-hoc committees within the provinces or their councils in cooperation and coordination with the Directorate of Mine Action. 3. Demanding the addition of financial allocations to Mine Action operations within their budgets and continuous coordination with the Ministry of Finance. 4. Supporting the drafting of Mine Action law by the members of the House of Representatives, each one within his/her respective province. 5. Facilitating investors and considering the demining operations as a part of the investment process. 6. Facilitating missions of the Directorate of Mine Action, companies, organisations and all entities conducting EH survey and clearance.

A mechanism under which the following roles and responsibilities have been identified was established:

• Missions in connection to IEDs, mines and ERW are set by the Directorate of Mine Action for the entities conducting the operations. Such entities are the military engineering squads of the Ministry of Defense, civil defense directorates of the Ministry of Interior and the authorised companies and organisations. • The entities shall report to the Directorate of Mine Action, specify the accurate locations and consolidate the activities in order to document the same and draft the national reports and agreements and protocols reports after the completion of the Quality Management processes.

Strategic Objectives:

First Objective: Mitigating the risks posed by IEDs, mines and ERW contamination, and to reduce the associated social, economic and humanitarian impact.

Indicators: (a) Completing 100% of clearance of Holly Najaf province and declaring it free from EH contamination in 2017-2018. (b) Completing 100% of non-technical survey in the provinces in which no survey was conducted by the end of 2018, in addition to stabilising the security situation and provision of the financial allocations. (c) Marking 50% of the land contaminated with EH in coordination with the Ministry of Defense by the end of 2018 for the lands after the conflicts are over and after they are stable. (d) Clearing 40% of the EH contaminated land in connection with oil fields through the trade companies by the end of 2021. (e) Clearing 50% of the land currently registered in the national database as being contaminated by cluster bombs by the end of 2021. (f) Clearing 20% of the total land contaminated by EH through all events and activities by the end of 2021 (including the mine fields along the borderline of Iraq with the Islamic Republic of Iran).

Specific Activities: (a) To facilitate and prioritise marking, non-technical and technical survey and clearance. (b) To coordinate and support the urgent response in emergencies. (c) To support and develop the national information management systems for all main operators.

Second Objective:

To reduce the number of accidents resulting from EH contamination through Risk Education programmes targeting at-risk communities.

Indicators: (a) 36% - Conducting EH Risk Education campaigns for at-risk communities to mitigate the danger, and thereby reduce the number of accidents in the provinces of Anbar, Mosul, Salahddin, Dyala, Kirkuk within a five-year plan. (b) 50% - Risk Education campaigns continuation in the southern areas. (c) 45% - Risk Education campaigns continuation in the central areas, including the refugee camps in the provinces of Najaf, Karbala, Wasit, Babylon, Baghdad, Samawa. (d) 55% - Continuation and observation of coordination with the government establishments relevant to the works of EH Risk Education (relevant ministries: Ministry of Education, Ministry of Youth & Sport, Ministry of Oil).

Specific Activities: (a) Supporting and providing EH Risk Education. (b) Strengthening and mainstreaming gender equality, to include the integration of associated national and United Nations principles. (c) Resource mobilisation for EH survey, clearance and Risk Education. (d) Developing targeted Risk Education programmes to address the varied nature and location of EH contamination, and ensuring that the distribution of safety messaging is tailored to men, women and children in each demographic area. (e) Cooperating with national and intentional organisations supporting the Risk Education programme.

Third Objective: Provide medical and psychological support to the victims of EH and support in their reintegration to society.

Indicators: (a) 50% - Collecting and updating information about the EH victims, military operations and terrorist attacks throughout Iraq, and observing and recording new accidents based on the available sources of information. (b) 100% - Conduct emergency surveys in the liberated areas in provinces of (Salahddin, Anbar, and Ninawa) once the security situation is stable and the financial allocations are available. (c) 75% - Observing all rehabilitation centers and artificial limbs centers of the Ministry of Health, as well as all relevant departments of the Ministry of Labor & Social Affairs. (d) 25% - International cooperation and coordination with all departments supporting and helping the victims.

Specific Activities: (a) Providing directions and technical help through evidence-based and cost-effective methods for improving the opportunities for victims to access medical and health care services. (b) Improving Victim Assistance through the establishment of an Information Management System, collecting and using victim data from both genders, classified in order of age and status. (c) Resource Mobilisation for EH Victim Assistance programmes.

Fourth Objective: To integrate Mine Action methodology into relevant State policies by legislating Mine Action law.

Indicators: (a) 20% - Government support for EH operations, especially law legislation. (b) 50% - The percentage of observing conventions related to EH, which need to adopt a special law supporting the Mine Action sector. (c) 20% – The percentage of the relevant ministries contribution (by including Mine Action programmes in their plans).

Specific Activities: (a) Invitation to adopt and comply with enforcement of laws and general policies that involve survey and clearance operations, Risk Education and Victim Assistance. (b) Developing national laws and regulations to best fit the situation in Iraq, in line with relevant international laws and regulations. (c) Combining the Mine Action Strategy with the State general policy, government operation programme and Prime Ministry plans. (d) Cooperating with the ad-hoc committees and decisionmakers for the purpose of promoting the Mine Action Strategy within the political and legislative fields.

Values and Principles Adopted by the Committee: The National Strategic Plan of Explosive Hazards will be implemented in accordance with: 1. Iraqi Constitution principles. 2. National Development Plan. 3. Governmental Work Programme. 4. Effective response to national emergencies. 5. Transparency, clarity and proficiency through the effective dialogue, which is open to the needs of the EH impacted sectors. 6. Previous strategic plans, electronic Information Management Systems and survey and clearance information. 7. Compliance of all participating parties with their responsibilities and commitments. 8. Exchange of experiences and good practices and benefit from the lessons and experiences available for all persons relevant to the programme at the national and international levels. 9. Accurate professional oversight of all operations related to the programme. 10. Evaluating and appreciating the endeavours of all national and international workers and partners. 11. Benefiting from key stakeholder surveys and analysis.

Current Capabilities First: Information of technical teams in the Iraqi Mine Action Programme

Operation field Directorate of Mine Action (beside the accredited organisations and companies) Squad members Number of teams Total Non-technical survey or preliminary survey 10 18 180

Manual clearance and technical survey 8 75 600 Mechanical demining 4 19 76 Explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) 3 15 45 Battle area clearance (BAC) 10 86 860 Mine detection dogs 4 2 8 Quality control 6 41 246 Mine risk education 3 12 36 Quality Assurance 2 10 20 Total 50 278 2071

Second: Ministry of Defense Capabilities

1. Explosive Ordnance Disposal Battalion – includes four companies. 2. Rapid Deployment Force Field Engineering /1 – includes two companies. 3. Fifth Squad Field Engineering Battalion – includes two companies. 4. Sixth Squad Field Engineering Battalion – includes two companies. 5. Seventh Squad Field Engineering Battalion – includes two companies. 6. Eighth Squad Field Engineering Battalion – includes two companies. 7. Ninth Squad Field Engineering Battalion – includes two companies. 8. Tenth Squad Field Engineering Battalion – includes two companies. 9. Eleventh Squad Field Engineering Battalion – includes two companies. 10. Fourteenth Squad Field Engineering Battalion – includes two companies. 11. Fifteenth Squad Field Engineering Battalion – includes two companies. 12. Sixteenth Squad Field Engineering Battalion – includes two companies. 13. Seventeenth Squad Field Engineering Battalion – includes two companies.

Third: Ministry of Interior Capabilities Number of explosive remnants of war and aerial bombs removal squads

Explosive Remnants of War and Number of explosive Number of battle Education Quality aerial bombs removal/ remnants of war area clearance squad for all Management squads squad social classes Squad 4 / 5 5 / 6 3 / 4 4 / 5

Enhancing Mine Action Programme Capabilities: Enhancing Mine Action Programme Capabilities through: 1. Implementing the mission distribution plan to help with Mine Action procedures (role document development) also with all main operators. 2. Strengthening the operations of various entities and utilising all capabilities available for them. 3. Strengthening the Directorate of Mine Action through events and information management. 4. Continuing to strengthen Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) compliance with International Mine Action Standards (IMAS). 5. Supporting the continuous presentations of all operators to reflect the technological developments and variations. 6. Activating the urgent communication means between officials at the operating entities to support the rapid response to emergencies. 7. Upgrading and developing the technical skills of all departments and workers of Mine Action Programme of various entities within the plans made by the Directorate of Mine Action in coordination and cooperation with different entities. 8. Supporting the technology usage and development at all levels of the Mine Action Programme. 9. Increasing the support of resource management with concentration on transparency and proficiency in the adopted mechanisms to spend funding on the Mine Action Programmes. 10. Increasing the interaction between the Mine Action Programme, donors and international organisations in order to manage the resources allocated for the programme and to take into consideration the national priorities set by the Programmes Directorate.

Observation & Assessment: First: The Directorate of Mine Action management complies with a number of activities for the purpose of mitigating and reducing the effect of risks and implementing its strategy through the following: 1. Assigning and supporting all appropriate events and activities, and providing various resources. 2. Establishing suitable mechanisms for observation and assessment processes based on correct outputs. 3. Providing financial allocation and support to a basic group of events and activities at the right time. 4. Approving annual reports of operations related to Mine Action by the partners, and identifying the weak points to support them in the implementation to be included in the annual plans. 5. Continuing to strengthen the compliance and use the national and international standards of operations related to EH and technical directive principles.

Second: The strategic plan will be approved for implementation over the next five years through annual action plans in which relevant parties participate. The purpose of the plans observation and assessment processes is to assess, improve and redirect the strategic plan. Lessons learned would enhance planning proficiency and operational implementation, as well as allow the modification of the strategic plan road map.

Third: During the strategy stages, a main revision will be made thereto every couple of years in order to assess the same, find the deviations, and treat them. The assessment process will be made methodologically and objectively as per the suitability of the programme and its ability to achieve the goals listed in this strategy. The assessment should provide credible and useful information for decision making.

Fourth: The assessment should seek to benefit several relevant entities, including men, women and children affected by the EH related actions. It should also benefit the donors and sponsoring entities, government and supporting departments such as the National Authority, Mine Action centers, the executing entity and its partners through transparent reports.

Fifth: The strategic assessment process is unified through:

1. The degree of internal harmony between the policies, strategies and capabilities. 2. The degree of harmony with the surrounding circumstances. 3. The extent of its suitability for the available resources the establishment has. 4. The degree of risks included in the strategy, and whether they are acceptable or unacceptable. 5. The appropriate timeframe of the strategy, which is five years fixed term. 6. The ability to work with it and the extent of its validity, and whether they are effective in accordance with the common quantity criteria and indicators. 7. The conformity of the outputs compared to the plans, by percentage of achievement.

Sixth: Taking into consideration ‘emergency situations’, where there are urgent needs to complete EH operations as soon as possible, additional or alternative criteria will be used or applied in emergency cases, such as: 1. Proper timing in emergency cases, especially for vulnerable communities. They often cannot wait to receive assistance. 2. Coverage: have all communities at risk been provided with sufficient assistance? 3. Conformity: do the procedures made by various entities conform? 4. Coordination: do various agencies make suitable efforts to exchange and share the information and coordinate their operations on the ground? 5. Protection: are there enough efforts to protect the civilians at risk?

Factors Enabling Achievement of Strategy: The success of this strategy depends on the following: 1. The political support backed by the decisionmakers and national establishments, including the mainstreaming of Mine Action priorities and their integration with the general policies of the State. 2. The continual financial support expected to be received from the State of Iraq, donors and international organisations. 3. Continuity of the participation and ownership of all main operators in the programme. 4. The improvement of the Quality Management System that can enable the Directorate of Mine Action to issue completion certificates to operators for all cleared areas. 5. The combination of Risk Education in the operational planning, with a policy and plan that involve all partners operating in the Mine Action Programme. 6. The implementation of a victim observation system in compliance with the plan of rehabilitation and reintegration into society, in addition to an organised and planned coordination to take control in participation with the relevant ministries.

7. The development, improvement and expansion of the Mine Action Programme management system to be inclusive and coordinated, including legislation that governs EH so they can meet the increasing challenges. 8. Developing a multiple-year plan aiming to improve and expand the Mine Action Programme information management, in addition to the improvement and implementation of database proficiency. 9. Maintain an effective coordination with all partners. 10. An effective multi-year action plan for the Mine Action Programme in the public relations with effective communication. 11. Through media and clergies, strengthening the role of the general public as an effective partner satisfied in the partnership role. 12. Periodical revision of the plan, performance assessment and road map correction.

Regulation of the Supporting Role of Non-Governmental Organisations (international & national):

First: Vision To strengthen, support and develop the civil society organisations and maintain their independence in accordance with law to ensure their effective participation in making Iraq free from EH.

Second: Non-Governmental Organisations accredited by Iraqi Mine Action Programme.

No. Organisation Name Authorisation Nature 1 Maysan Organisation Mine risk education 2 Danish Refugee Council Technical survey, manual clearance, surface BAC, mine risk education, quality control and quality assurance 3 Norwegian People's Aid Technical survey, manual clearance, surface BAC, mine risk education 4 Busatan Association for Child Child media activities protection & Education 5 Baghdad Organisation Technical survey, manual clearance, quality control and quality assurance, BAC surface and sub-surface, mine risk education 6 IMCO Organisation Manual clearance, mechanical demining, mine detection dogs, BAC surface and sub-surface, mine risk education, quality control and quality assurance 7 The International Committee of Technical survey, road clearance, surface BAC, mine risk education, the Red Cross victim assistance 8 Basra Organisation Technical survey, manual clearance, BAC surface and sub-surface, quality control and quality assurance, conditional authorisation for mechanical demining, Explosive Ordnance Disposal 9f Arab Mine Action Consultancy Conditional operational authorisation for six months in the non-technical survey and information management 10 Health & Social Care Mine risk education Organisation

Third: Role expected by the Government to be played by the international organisations. 1. To establish an effective and proactive response coordinated by the organisations in peace, war and emergency times. 2. Full coordination with the Iraqi Government and local governments for planning, resource mobilisation and prioritisation. 3. To contribute to the mobilisation and international community support for the need and requirements of the Iraqi Mine Action Programme. 4. Effective contribution and supporting the Iraqi executive entities with their logistical, supply, equipment and training needs.

Fourth: Role of UNMAS: 1. To support the stabilisation efforts and humanitarian activities which facilitate the return of refugees and IDPs to ISIS liberated areas. 2. To provide functional support to the Directorate of Mine Action and Iraqi-Kurdistan Mine Action Agency in partnership with the Government of Iraq through the National Operation Center. 3. To support the response to the national leadership and operational implementation. 4. To communicate with the authorities at the national, provincial and governorate levels on issues relating to Mine Action. 5. To directly communicate with the international community on issues related to Mine Action. 6. To respond to emergencies for international and national trade companies, as well as NGOs. 7. To conduct urgent survey and clearance operations in the areas liberated from ISIS. 8. To provide a wide selection of training and direction programmes for members of security forces and Mine Action related authorities. 9. To provide Risk Education to IDPs, refugees, returnees, and host communities on the threats posed by EH. 10. To assist the Government in improving its support to the victims of EH in providing aid and rehabilitation services. 11. To work closely with the national and local authorities to ensure gender mainstreaming. 12. To strengthen the publics’ trust in the State’s ability and willingness to ensure the safety and security of civilians.

References & Sources:

1. Iraqi Constitution. 2. National Development Plan. 3. Governmental Operation Programme. 4. Iraqi Ministries' Plans. 5. Previous Mine Action Strategy. 6. National Security Strategy. 7. Al Waqa'e Newspaper of Iraq. 8. Document of Roles of Ministries of (Defense, Interior and Environment). 9. United Nations Mine Action Strategy. 10. Information Management System of Mine Action.

Names of entities and persons participating in the development of the National Strategy 1. Ministry of Health & Environment: Directorate of Mine Action – Mr. Khaled Rashad Jabbar (Team Head). 2. National Security Consultancy: National Center for Mutual Planning – Dr. Ali abdul Aziz Al Yasseri. 3. General Secretariat of Council of Ministers: Nongovernmental Organisations Department – Mr. Bassel Hashem Fakher. 4. Ministry of Defense: Military Engineering Directorate – Dean Qais Mohammad Keka. 5. Ministry of Interior: Public Civil Defense Directorate – Captain Andul Rauf Zaki Hassouni. 6. Ministry of Oil: Mr. Bassem Andul Sattar Abd Al Sadah – South Oil Company. - Mr. Osama Kadem Bukhari – Midland Oil Company - Mr. Abbas Rifat Khorshid – North Oil Company - Mr. Abdul Ghafour Mohammad – Studies, Planning and Observation Department. 7. Ministry of Health & Environment – Mr. Ahmad Ali Mahmoud – Euphrates Regional Center Manager. - Mrs. Ala' Fadel Fahad – Victim Aid Section Director. - Mr. Ahmad Abdul Razzaq Fulaih – Planning & Information Section Director. - Mrs. Rana Jassem Ahamd – Education & Information Section Director. - Mr. Shawkat Tayeh Masoud – Operations and Quality Control Section Director. - Mr. Hashe Sharad Dakheel – Planning & Information Section. - Mrs. Samia Nasser Hussein – Planning & Observation Department. - Mrs. Abeer Faleh Hassan – Technical Agent Office. - Mrs. Hala Haitham Al Jabbar / International Cooperation Branch. - Ms. Shaima Abdul Ameer Jassem – Coordination & Relation Branch / Committee Headquarter. - Mr. Hassan Jassem Jawad – Inspector Genertal Office (Observing Member). 8. Iraqi-Kurdistan Mine Action Agency – Mr. Khattab Omar Ahmad – Iraqi Kurdistan. 9. Ministry of Labor & Social Affairs: Projects & Construction Department – Mr. Khaled Khalaf Fandi. 10. Ministry of Planning: Sector Planning Department – Mr. Abbas Fadel Abbas. 11. Ministry of Finance: Economic Department – Mr. Youssef Fadel Lafi. 12. United Nations Mine Action Service – Mr. Imad Abdul Baki. 13. National Security Consultancy – National Center for Mutual Planning: Mrs. Hamsa Hassan Ali. - Mr. Wesam Hassan Mahdi.