Iraq Requests UNAMI Mission Closure by 2025

The Iraqi government has asked the United Nations to end the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) by the end of 2025, marking the latest effort by Iraq to reduce the presence of international organizations operating in the country.

The Iraqi government has formally requested that the United Nations (UN) end the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) by the end of 2025. In a letter sent to UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani argued that Iraq has made significant progress in areas covered by UNAMI's mandate, rendering the mission redundant.

UNAMI was established in 2003 after the U.S.-led invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein. The mission's tasks have included facilitating dialogue among various Iraqi groups, assisting with election logistics, monitoring human rights, and coordinating aid in conflict-affected areas.

Al-Sudani stated in his letter that Iraq has achieved important steps in areas that fall under UNAMI's mandate. He highlighted the country's progress in promoting governance, protecting human rights, and strengthening stability and security. Based on these accomplishments, he believes that UNAMI's presence is no longer necessary.

However, al-Sudani did not oppose a one-year extension of UNAMI's mandate to allow for a smooth transition and the transfer of responsibilities to Iraqi institutions. He emphasized that the ultimate goal should be to ensure UNAMI's permanent closure by the end of 2025.

UNAMI has played a vital role in supporting Iraq's post-conflict transition and development. Its mandate has included:

- Facilitating political dialogue and national reconciliation

- Assisting with the drafting and implementation of Iraq's constitution and electoral laws

- Monitoring and reporting on human rights violations

- Coordinating humanitarian assistance and promoting the return of displaced Iraqis

- Providing technical assistance to strengthen Iraq's institutions and infrastructure

Al-Sudani's request is part of a broader effort by Iraq to reduce the presence of international organizations operating in the country. This move reflects Iraq's desire to assert its sovereignty and independence after decades of external intervention.

In addition to UNAMI, Iraq has initiated discussions to phase out the U.S.-led military coalition that was formed to fight the Islamic State group. Baghdad has also decided not to renew the mandate for the UN Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by ISIS, requesting that the team exit by September 2024.

Iraq's request to end UNAMI's mission by 2025 signals a significant shift in Iraq's relationship with the UN and other international bodies. It demonstrates Iraq's confidence in its own ability to address its challenges and manage its affairs without external assistance.

However, the departure of UNAMI could also have implications for Iraq's stability and development. UNAMI has provided valuable support in areas such as human rights monitoring, democratic institution building, and conflict resolution. It remains to be seen how Iraq will fill the void left by UNAMI's departure.