Baghdad, The United Nations (UN) and Iraq signed today the first United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) for Iraq for the period 2011-2014, marking a new strategic partnership between the funds, programmes and agencies of the UN and the Government of Iraq. The UNDAF has been developed

Baghdad, The United Nations (UN) and Iraq signed today the first United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) for Iraq for the period 2011-2014, marking a new strategic partnership between the funds, programmes and agencies of the UN and the Government of Iraq. The UNDAF has been developed by the United Nations Country Team in partnership with the Government of Iraq and other national partners.

Signing on behalf of the United Nations, Ms. Christine McNab, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq, said: “Today is a historic day for the UN and Iraq. The United Nations and the Government of Iraq have signed the first UNDAF, marking the start of a strengthened partnership for achieving a better future for Iraq and its people. Over the coming four years the UN will contribute towards state and peace building through five key priority areas addressing inclusive economic growth, environmental management, promoting good governance and protection of human rights, ensuring access to improved basic services for all, and special investment in the capacities of women, youth and children to enable their full participation in all aspects of life in Iraq. We will continue to reach out to the most vulnerable groups; the disenfranchized, Internally Displaced Persons, refugees and returnees, and the disabled.  We are confident that the UNDAF, in alignment with the National Development Plan, will make significant contributions to improving the lives of all people in Iraq.”

The UNDAF is the outcome of an intensive consultation process with the Government of Iraq. It reflects the priorities of the Five Year National Development Plan that considers effective human capital as the main pillar for building new Iraq.  

“I am extremely pleased that this agreement was signed today. The Government of Iraq will work closely with the United Nations and its partners to boost Iraq’s economy, accelerate the development process and ensure that Iraq is a better place where men and women can live in peace, prosperity and dignity”, said Dr. Sami Metti, Deputy Minister of Planning, Development and Cooperation, who signed the UNDAF on behalf of the Government of Iraq.

Development programmes under the UNDAF will be funded by the UN agencies, the international donor community with co-financing by the Government of Iraq in line with commitments under the Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness. The private sector will also be mobilized to participate in the national development process.

 

PHOTO: Ms. Christine McNab, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq and Dr. Sami Metti, Deputy Minister of Planning and Development Cooperation