Iraq 'on the rise,' despite challenges: UN

HAMILTON, Canada

The UN on Thursday noted significant progress that Iraq has made in recent years, despite ongoing challenges.

"Today we are, so to speak, witnessing an Iraq on the rise," Special Envoy for Iraq, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, told the UN Security Council.

Saying that "Several important steps and promising initiatives have emerged," Hennis-Plasschaert highlighted Iraq's strategic position in the region and efforts to enhance the investment climate, implement financial and economic reforms and address water management and environmental issues.

The envoy reflected on Iraq's transformation, saying, "The picture we wish to portray is an Iraq which looks different to the country to which UNAMI (UN Assistance Mission for Iraq) was first deployed some 20 years ago. Indeed, it looks different to the country I arrived in in 2018.”

Noting persistent challenges, she mentioned corruption, sectarianism, impunity for criminals, interference in state functions and activities of non-state armed actors as key challenges in Iraq.

"But I do believe it is high time to judge the country on progress made and to turn the page on the darker images of Iraq’s past," she stressed.

Hennis-Plasschaert emphasized the risk of exacerbating inter-communal issues through marginalization and exclusion, noting it as a significant problem that needs to be addressed.

Regarding regional tensions, she indicated Iraq's government's determination not to be drawn into conflict, stating, "Through these efforts, I am glad to say that, currently, a more stable security environment prevails in Iraq."

HAMILTON, Canada

The UN on Thursday noted significant progress that Iraq has made in recent years, despite ongoing challenges.

"Today we are, so to speak, witnessing an Iraq on the rise," Special Envoy for Iraq, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, told the UN Security Council.

Noting persistent challenges, she mentioned corruption, sectarianism, impunity for criminals, interference in state functions and activities of non-state armed actors as key challenges in Iraq.

"But I do believe it is high time to judge the country on progress made and to turn the page on the darker images of Iraq’s past," she stressed.

Hennis-Plasschaert emphasized the risk of exacerbating inter-communal issues through marginalization and exclusion, noting it as a significant problem that needs to be addressed.