On Thursday, the UN and Iraq signed the Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2025 to 2029, aiming to advance Iraq’s national goals aligned with the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda adopted by Member States in 2015.
This agreement precedes the closure of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), which has provided key policy assistance to the government for over two decades.
“The signing of the Framework Agreement marks a respectful transition in relations between the United Nations and Iraq,” stated UNAMI Chief Mohamed Al Hassan. “This signifies a shift from political stability support to strengthening the sustainable development partnership between Iraq and the organization.”
To achieve the 2030 Agenda, including the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), countries must collaborate collectively and nationally.
Sustainable development cooperation frameworks between the UN and governments provide the tools for planning, implementation, and monitoring to achieve these goals.
Iraq’s plan emphasizes four strategic priorities aligned with the nation’s development plan:
- Better access to education, health, and social services.
- Promote employment and economic growth.
- Environmental protection and climate change action.
- Enhance the rule of law and governance.
The implementation, monitoring, and reporting of the UN-Iraq Development Framework will be overseen by a steering committee co-chaired by the Iraqi Ministry of Planning and the UN Resident Coordinator. Government bodies and UN agencies will annually evaluate progress to maintain alignment with the framework. A dedicated fund and a resource mobilization strategy will support the necessary financing.
UNAMI, established in 2003 after the fall of Saddam Hussein, aided Iraq through political transitions, post-conflict recovery, and combating ISIL/Daesh. Its mandate ends on December 31.
With increased stability compared to twenty years ago, Iraq seeks greater autonomy. “Iraq believes it is ready for a new phase, reinforcing its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Mr. Al Hassan expressed, asserting Iraq’s preparedness for this transition.
Leave a Reply