The recent parliamentary elections in Iraq mark a historic milestone and the conclusion of more than two decades of UN presence in the country. The Security Council heard Tuesday from Mohammed Al Hassan, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Iraq, who briefed members for the last time as the UN Assistance Mission in Iraq (UNAMI) prepares to end its mandate on 31 December 2025.
“Today is a great day for the international community and the United Nations to witness an honourable and dignified closure of a UN mission,” Mr. Al Hassan said.
UNAMI, established in 2003 amid the aftermath of dictatorship, regional wars, foreign occupation, and the terror of Da’esh, has been central to Iraq’s long and challenging journey toward peace and stability. “The road was difficult, but with international support, Iraq came out victorious, though at great sacrifice,” he noted, honoring the memory of those who lost their lives, including the 22 UN staff killed in the 2003 Canal Hotel bombing.
Over the years, Iraq has made hard-won gains, from adopting a new Constitution to strengthening democracy through 13 successful elections. The sixth parliamentary elections last month were among the most free, orderly, and credible yet, with a notable turnout of 56 per cent of registered voters. “I can hardly think of a more fitting final chapter to UNAMI’s activities than witnessing Iraqis from diverse backgrounds line up to cast their ballots,” he said, urging the swift formation of a new government while noting the ongoing political stalemate in the Kurdistan region.
Despite these achievements, Iraq continues to face significant humanitarian and human rights challenges. Roughly a million people remain internally displaced, including over 100,000 Yazidis from Sinjar, who endured extreme suffering under Da’esh and still live in camps. Iraq has also made commendable efforts to repatriate nationals from northeast Syria, with approximately 20,800 people returned to date. Mr. Al Hassan emphasized the importance of providing resources to ensure their dignified and sustainable reintegration, including access to basic services, livelihoods, and community support.
He also congratulated Iraq on its election to the UN Human Rights Council, stressing the ongoing responsibility to protect minorities, women, and youth, and uphold freedom of expression as a cornerstone of a democratic society.
Concluding his remarks, Mr. Al Hassan affirmed that UNAMI’s departure does not mark the end of Iraq-UN partnership but the beginning of a new chapter guided by Iraq’s own leadership. “The UN will continue to provide technical expertise, advice, and support. I have full confidence in the resilience of the Iraqi people and their leaders to tackle the challenges ahead, build bridges of trust, and restore Iraq’s historic glory,” he said.
