The agreement comes before the closure of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), which has been helping the government with key policy issues for more than two decades.
“The signing of the Framework is a natural and honorable transition in the relationship between the United Nations and the Republic of Iraq,” said UNAMI chief Mohamed Al Hassan. “It reflects an orderly and responsible move from supporting political stability to the stage of consolidating the partnership for sustainable development between Iraq and the organization.”
Listen to our interview with Mr. Al Hassan about the closure of UNAMI.
About the frame
To achieve the 2030 Agenda, which also includes the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), countries not only need to work collectively, but also do their part at the national level.
Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks are agreements between the United Nations and individual governments that provide countries with the tools to achieve these goals, from planning to implementation and monitoring.
The plan for Iraq focuses on four main strategic priorities that align with the country’s national development plan:
- Better access to education, health and social services.
- Create employment opportunities and economic growth.
- Protect the environment and address climate change.
- Strengthen the rule of law and good governance.
How will it be achieved?
Implementation, monitoring and reporting of the UN-Iraq development framework will be guided by a steering committee co-chaired by the Iraqi Ministry of Planning and the UN Resident Coordinator who leads the country team.
Government institutions and UN agencies will meet to review progress annually and ensure the framework remains on track.
Implementation will be supported by a specific fund, along with a strategy to mobilize resources for the necessary financing.
UN mission closes
UNAMI was created in 2003 after the fall of Saddam Hussein and has supported Iraq during the political transition, post-conflict recovery and the fight against ISIL, also known as Da’esh. The special political mission ends its mandate on December 31.
Now that the country is significantly more stable than it was about 20 years ago, Iraq is working toward greater self-sufficiency.
“Iraq believes it is ready to move to another phase, solidifying its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Al Hassan previously said. UN News. “I truly believe Iraq is ready for that.”