The UN political role in Iraq will officially end in 2025, as announced by Mohammed Al-Hassan, head of the UN mission. While the political mandate concludes, 23 UN organizations will continue their operations in Iraq. Discussions during Al-Hassan’s visit to Kirkuk centered around public service improvements and local community concerns, particularly the issue of missing persons.
The head of the UN mission in Iraq, Mohammed Al-Hassan, announced during a press conference in Kirkuk that the UN political mandate will conclude by the end of 2025, following the Iraqi government’s request. Al-Hassan emphasized that while the political mission will end, 23 UN organizations, including UNICEF and UNDP, will continue their support operations in Iraq.
During his visit, Al-Hassan met with UN staff and local officials, calling their discussions productive. He noted the significance of Kirkuk’s diverse population and the presence of around 35,000 students at Kirkuk University, underscoring the importance of education for the region’s future.
Al-Hassan stated that issues such as missing persons raised by the provincial council would be directed to Baghdad, reiterating that the UN does not involve itself in Iraq’s internal affairs and operates under its defined mandate. Kirkuk Provincial Council Chairman Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Hafiz highlighted efforts to enhance public services and address local concerns, including those affecting the Arab community in relation to the Kurdistan Region.
In summary, the UN mission in Iraq will officially conclude its political role by 2025 as per the Iraqi government’s request. Despite the end of this mandate, various UN programs will persist in supporting Iraq. The discussions held during this period reflect ongoing efforts to improve local governance and community issues, particularly concerning education and missing persons in Kirkuk.
Original Source: shafaq.com
