The UN pledged continued support through normalised cooperation frameworks.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres made the assurance at an official closing ceremony in Baghdad on Saturday, ahead of the mission’s mandate ending on December 31, 2025. UNAMI was established in 2003 following the fall of Saddam Hussein and played a central role in supporting Iraq’s political transition, post-war reconstruction and the fight against Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).
Addressing Iraqi officials, diplomats and UN staff, the Secretary-General described Iraq’s recent progress as a source of inspiration, noting that the country had emerged from decades of conflict, terrorism and instability with renewed determination to build peace and development.
He highlighted key milestones supported by the UN mission, including the drafting of the 2005 Constitution, the holding of multiple national elections, and the territorial defeat of ISIL. According to the Secretary-General, Iraq today is enjoying improved security and is focused on economic recovery, governance reform and social cohesion.
Throughout its mandate, UNAMI advised successive Governments and Parliaments on constitutional, judicial and legal reforms, promoted human rights, and supported civic participation by women, youth and minority groups. During the height of the conflict with ISIL, the mission helped coordinate international assistance to protect civilians and support millions of displaced people.
The mission also played a role in facilitating national dialogue and reconciliation, supporting the return of displaced communities, including Yazidis and Iraqis repatriated from camps in northeastern Syria.
The Secretary-General paid tribute to UNAMI staff, particularly those killed in the August 19, 2003, bombing of the UN headquarters in Baghdad, which claimed 22 lives. He also acknowledged the contribution of Iraqi national staff who served the mission over many years.
Following talks with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani, the Secretary-General reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting Iraq’s development priorities, including institutional strengthening, service delivery and economic diversification.
While UNAMI’s closure marks the end of a peacekeeping-era presence, the United Nations stressed that its partnership with Iraq will continue through development agencies and regular cooperation mechanisms, reflecting what the Secretary-General described as a new chapter in relations between Iraq and the UN.
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
