YouSaid · the spoken record

Hennis-Plasschaert

lines on the record: 231
first: 2019-02-13
most recent: 2023-10-10
sittings or episodes: 14
sources: un-security-council

Every line below is reproduced as it was said and linked to the record it came from. Nothing here is summarised or generated. Directory · Search · Corrections

“To all those feeling challenged, placing a further burden on Iraq is truly the last thing that it needs. On 29 April, the United Nations launched its 2019 humanitarian response plan in alignment with the humanitarian plans of Iraq. The needs remain substantial. Many displaced citizens continue to face serious obstacles to returning to their homes. Those include the lack of civil documentation, an unstable security situation owing, for example, to clashes between armed groups and checkpoint harassment, damaged and contaminated houses, inadequate basic services and discrimination, among other factors. In other words, obstacles are varied, complex and interlinked, painfully resulting in stalled returns on the ground.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“In an era of severe climate change, it is of the utmost importance to plan carefully for all weather extremes and, therefore, to develop a comprehensive programme of water collection and management, as well as to strengthen the country's infrastructure and better prepare for floods. I am pleased to report that Iraq's leadership continues to reach out to international and regional counterparts, positioning itself as a reliable and capable partner. Indeed, Iraq could well be a stabilizing factor in a very turbulent region. Instead of an arena for conflict, Iraq could well offer a space for regional reconciliation, preparing the groundwork for a regional security dialogue. At the same time, we cannot ignore the fact that Iraq faces serious challenges in preventing its territory from becoming the theatre for different competitions.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“However, much work remains to be done, and the reconfiguration of the national security architecture is particularly important. That notably includes the future positioning of the popular mobilization forces and the reform of the Peshmerga into a single, regional security force. As we saw during last summer's protests in the south, Iraq's water shortages have the potential to ignite social unrest, which, if unchecked, can reverse any gains made. Although this past winter saw extensive rainfall, including widespread catastrophic flooding, simple reliance on generous rainfall is not a solid national water strategy.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“Another predominant security concern is the issue of armed actors operating outside State control, engaged in illegal or criminal activities and exerting economic and social influence throughout the country. Clearly, the activities of those actors undermine State authority. They affect vulnerable communities, they weaken the national economy and, sadly, they also prevent the peaceful return of displaced persons. In my conversations with the Iraqi Government, I welcomed certain actions, such as the closing down of so-called illegal economic offices, but the road will certainly be long. It will therefore prove crucial to hold to account all armed actors involved in criminal enterprises or illegal activity. More broadly, I welcome the Government's efforts with regard to security sector reform.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“Equally important is the issue of returning ISIL- fighters from Syria to Iraq, along with their families. The return of thousands upon thousands of people - Iraqis and non-Iraqis - raises not only significant security and capacity concerns, but also urgent human rights and humanitarian protection concerns. All that is not just an Iraqi problem. We know that certain States prefer to maintain a strategic distance with regard to their own nationals. But, once again, to be clear, that is notjust an Iraqi problem. If poorly managed, the issue will impact us all in the region and far beyond. Moreover, if we do not manage that adequately, we risk creating a new breeding ground for the next generation of terrorists.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“However, the security situation will continue to require close monitoring, not only in Baghdad but throughout the country. Attacks continue, as seen with recent blasts and suicide bombings. It is also very relevant in this context that the threat of the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) is still present. As a coalition representative recently said, ISIL is resurging. They rested, moved and are active. In that regard, I am keenly aware of the importance of continued, Wide-based international support to ensure that Iraq leaves its violent past behind and that it does not slip back into the turmoil from which it so recently emerged. In other words, a long-term approach is critical to prevent ISIL from regaining a strong foothold in Iraq.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“On a different note but of great relevance to women and girls is the anti-domestic-violence law, which is an issue that is both sensitive and important for Iraqis. I would like to commend Iraq's leadership in taking important steps towards the enactment of the law. The law would fully protect the legal rights and shelter needs of all victims of domestic violence - and by all victims, I mean all victims, not only women and girls. I sincerely hope that legislators will proceed with a law in line with the Iraqi Constitution that prohibits all forms of violence and abuse within the family. On an entirely separate and encouraging note, Baghdad is opening up. Very soon the Green Zone will no longer exist. Prime Minister Adil Abd Al-Mahdi has lived up to his promise from day one by removing T-walls and returning the city to its people.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“Also in that regard and in short, the common good should trump private or partisan interests, enabling the whole country to benefit. Accordingly, I look forward to renewed engagement on the critical hydrocarbon and revenue-sharing laws. Another point is that Iraq can achieve its full potential only with the active political, social and economic participation of women and youth. Recently, we witnessed, organized and participated in a variety of women and youth events throughout the country. While they were meaningful experiences for all those involved, I would like to warn a little against change as mere window dressing. At the end of the day, it is all about translating excellent intentions into positive action. Regrettably, Iraq is yet to appoint its first female minister.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“Prime Minister Adil Abd Al-Mahdi made it very clear in saying that corruption distorts the image of the State and its reputation, both locally and on the world stage. That is indeed very true, as it hampers not only Iraq's credibility but also its viability, responsiveness and effectiveness. Change will not happen overnight. It is therefore important to highlight the issue of corruption again and again. Achieving tangible results will be crucial in so many ways. Most importantly, it will revive public trust, which is essential for the further development of Iraq's democracy. The hydrocarbon sector is the backbone of Iraq's economy, with vast oil potential yet to be explored. However, in order to attain that, significant challenges will need to be addressed.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“That all becomes entrenched in the form of concealed private networks of power that operate independently, pursuing their own narrow objectives and goals. To a certain extent, that also explains why the many opportunities arising from so many reconciliation efforts are yet to be fully embraced. With that in mind, it is also necessary to touch upon the scourge of corruption, pervasive at all levels in Iraq. Corruption takes money that should be spent on public services, placing it instead in private pockets. It also deters economic activity, hindering business development that would result in much-needed job creation. As I stated the last time I briefed the Security Council (see S/PV.8462), I am encouraged by the Government's obvious engagement on this issue.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“After 218 days of negotiations, an agreement on the formation of a new Kurdistan regional Government was signed on 5 May. Barring further problems, the new Government could be in place in June. It is no secret that the Iraqi authorities, institutions, mechanisms and systems continue to struggle with deep-rooted problems, often hampering swift and robust responses from the Government to pressing needs, such as reconstruction, development and security. Those problems can be schematized as a range of individual interests and arguments, many of which arise from long-standing grievances and differences between communities, political parties, the federal Government and the Kurdistan regional Government.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“A full year after national elections, ministerial appointments have yet to be made to the key posts: Interior, Defence, Justice and Education. Political parties have not yet shown themselves willing to compromise. However, it should be understood that political compromise is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it is a sign ofpolitical maturity and a requisite for resilience. Slowly but surely, chairs, deputies and rapporteurs are now being selected for parliamentary committees. That is a critical hurdle to clear for parliamentary work to get under way. We are not there yet although it is indeed high time, as critical laws are still pending. Turning to the negotiations on the formation of the Kurdish regional Government, I am pleased to report recent important progress.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“Ms. Hennis-Plasschaert: I would like to begin by recounting my recent visit to a mass grave in the Samawah desert alongside President Barham Salih. That burial site is a stark reminder of Saddam Al-Hussein's horrific crimes against many people - his own people, in this case the Kurdish people. It was a deeply moving experience, underlining once again that Iraq's violent and lawless past still impacts its present. Yet it also made clear how extraordinary Iraq's transition is in this twenty-first century: from dictatorship to democracy. In order to truly take root democracy needs time, a great deal of time and much hard work. We must recognize that the ongoing political infighting is a costly obstacle.”
2019-05-21 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8531 (2019) · source
“Finally, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to UNAMI and the staff of the United Nations country team for their dedication and commitment. I am truly delighted to be working with them. I look forward to reporting back to the Council on - I hope - some substantive achievements over coming months.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“I encourage the Iraqi Government to continue its search for the still missing national archives. I would like to underline that, yes, the atmosphere of despair during the period of ISIL's occupation has given way somewhat towards hope and optimism for the future in Iraq. However, one cannot shy away from the fact that the road to well-deserved long-term stability will be long and far from easy. Realism and great determination will be necessary in facing the challenges ahead, including on our side. Obvious ownership and engagement by all Iraqi components will prove crucial, political will be a precondition and taking pride in a shared history and a common future will be a necessity. And, yes, continued support from the international community will be of paramount importance.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“President, I would like to turn now to the twenty-first report (S/2019/78) of the Secretary-General on the issue of missing Kuwaiti and third-country nationals and missing Kuwaiti property, including the national archives. First of all, let me emphasize my determination to engage on this issue. I emphasized that once again during my first official visit to Kuwait, 10 days ago. While UNAMI continues to assist the Governments of Iraq and Kuwait on this important humanitarian issue, I would like to call upon Member States to strengthen their support - for example, through the procurement of field equipment, the provision of forensics and capacity-building for Iraqi and Kuwaiti technical teams. The return of valuable Kuwaiti property last November was a positive and long-awaited step.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“As the Council knows, mine action organizations manage the threat of improvised explosive devices on a daily basis. That is of great importance. However, it has to be said that further action is required by the Government of Iraq to overcome certain challenges in facilitating those activities. Since the Kuwait International Conference for Reconstruction of Iraq in February 2018, the Iraq Recovery and Resilience Programme has been rolled out. With its national coverage, the Programme has a two-year budget of $1 billion. Resource mobilization efforts are ongoing, with over $300 million pledged so far for projects. I would like to encourage other donors to contribute. With your permission, Mr.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“I could give many examples, but some from the past few months include the provision of medical kits and supplies to save lives, the digitization of Iraq's largest social safety net, the provision of food entitlements, the clearance of explosives, and, importantly, the finalization of a reconstruction plan for Mosul. The United Nations system also continues to support the Government of Iraq in the implementation of some key reforms, such as in the security sector. During my visit to Mosul, a couple of weeks ago, I witnessed the important contribution of the country team in assisting the Government in the rehabilitation of houses and the restoration of water plants, both of which are essential needs for the return of life to that war-torn city.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“Iraq will undoubtedly need the continued attention of the international community to make the transition successful and sustainable. Thanks to the generous support of the international community, the United Nations Development Programme Funding Facility for Stabilization exceeded $1 billion at the end of 2018; however, a gap of $338 million still exists. In other words, additional funds are needed, including contributions by the Government of Iraq - which, by the way, acknowledges the quick impact and efficiency of the programme. It goes without saying that the United Nations country team continues to assist the Government of Iraq in meeting the needs of its citizens.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“This year the humanitarian community will focus on meeting the needs of 1.75 million vulnerable Iraqis, including internally displaced persons, living both in and out of camp settings, returnees in areas of severe need as well as host communities that have been strained by several years of armed conflict. The needs are vast indeed. The 2019 humanitarian response plan seeks $700 million from donors and includes specialized programming to address protection needs. Of course, humanitarian programming will be implemented alongside recovery and stabilization efforts. While significant efforts are under way to rebuild infrastructure and restore basic services, it will take many years and billions of dollars to rebuild the country.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“Equally important is the need to strengthen community cohesion and to counter collective community blame. Moreover, the marginalization of one group over another leaves communities vulnerable to extremist messaging. As part of UNAMI's efforts to advance equal opportunities, on 24 January I launched the Women's Advisory Group on Reconciliation and Politics. With that in mind, I would like to renew UNAMI's call on political leaders to fulfil the many pledges made during the time of the elections, and therefore appoint women to senior decision-making positions. The United Nations and its humanitarian partners have finalized the 2019 humanitarian needs overview for Iraq and will soon launch the humanitarian response plan, in close cooperation with the Government of Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“With respect to election, the Independent High Electoral Commission has formally recommended that Iraq's provincial council elections take place on 16 November. UNAMI will continue to provide technical assistance and support to the Commission. However, in preparation for these elections a number of steps will need to be taken urgently by the Government of Iraq and the relevant institutions. In speaking of human rights accountability, I would like to emphasize that promoting a more consistent adherence to international standards of due process and fair trial is of the greatest importance, as an impartial and transparent process of judicial accountability for the gross violations of human rights committed by ISIL will prove crucial in rebuilding peaceful coexistence and social cohesion.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“Another concern relates to armed groups operating out of State control and/or expanding their economic and social control in Iraqi daily life. Regardless of their affiliation, the Government needs to take quick measures to reform its security sector and act resolutely against these groups and their activities. As council members are also aware, Turkish military airstrikes near the Iraqi-Turkish border in northern Iraq have been condemned by the authorities of Iraq as violations of its sovereignty. Turkey maintains that these airstrikes are against targets linked to the Kurdistan Workers' Party. I regret the loss of civilian lives and livelihoods during these operations. It is important that the Governments of both Turkey and Iraq accelerate their efforts to resolve this through bilateral dialogue.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“During this period, Iraq has also received high-level international delegations seeking to engage with the new Iraqi leadership, and I truly hope that support for sustainable stability in Iraq will continue to be on top of the regional and international agenda, building upon mutual interests and in accordance with the principles of respect for Iraq's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Security remains a concern. Although terrorist activity has decreased, during the past month attacks have been carried out against both civilians and the Iraqi security forces. In short, despite its military defeat, the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) continues to pose a security threat to Iraq and the region.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“In my meetings with Kurdish leaders, both in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah, I emphasized the need to expedite Government formation in order to serve the needs of the people of the Kurdistan region as soon as possible. Some developments seem to be unfolding, however, with a possible session of the Kurdistan Regional Parliament to be held on 18 February. During the reporting period, Iraq's leadership made significant efforts in recalibrating its external relationships, reaching out to many international, regional and neighbouring partners. That is important, as strength abroad and strength at home are a package deal indeed.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“Turning to relations between Baghdad and Erbil, I would like to welcome the agreement reached on 16 January to unify customs duties. The speedy implementation of that agreement should now be a priority for both sides. Moreover, the finalization of the 2019 federal budget guaranteed federal funding for salary payments to the Kurdistan region civil servants and Peshmerga forces. I would like to call upon both Baghdad and Erbil to capitalize on this positive momentum and to overcome their differences. At this very moment, there is little to report on the Government formation within the Kurdistan region, as to date negotiations continue.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“Additionally, I would like to welcome the steps taken by the Government to address corruption by putting in place preventive measures. Within the past month, the Prime Minister has Chaired three meetings of the Supreme Anti-Corruption Council with a view to unifying efforts to combat corruption by any party or person, regardless of their post or position. The fight against corruption will not be an easy one, but it is a much-needed one as corruption is vast and pervasive at all levels in Iraq. It is a much-needed fight in order to revive public-trust. During our meeting in Najaf last Wednesday, Grand Ayatollah Al-Sistani also underlined once again, among others, the urgent need to show progress in fighting corruption.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“The good news is that it demonstrates that space for constructive political dialogue and partnership is out there, and I truly hope that we will see lots more of it in the months to come. The 2019 budget allocations for some key development sectors, such as electricity, reflect the Government's efforts to improve the delivery of basic services. But still, allocations for reconstruction in liberated areas are far less than the actual needs. Moreover, Iraq's State finances remain strongly reliant on oil-sector revenues and thus very vulnerable to fluctuations in oil prices. Another positive step was last week's decision of the Council of Ministers to convert the Government programme into an implementation plan. This will allow for close monitoring of progress, as well as accountability.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“Ultimately, the people of Iraq are bearing the brunt of the political stalemate - bearing the brunt at a time when it is critical to address their needs and demands for better services at a time when the Iraqi citizens ought to be able to rely on strong democratic governance and viable state institutions. So yes, it is high time to shift focus from factional politics and to invest efforts in addressing the immediate needs of Iraqi citizens, as further delays could give space to significant repercussions on the stability of the country. On a more positive note, I am pleased to inform the Council that the 2019 federal budget law was approved by Parliament on 23 January. Prior consultations, as well as effective cooperation, made this achievement possible.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“Long Government formation processes are not new or unique to Iraq. However, in the Iraq context there is a real sense of urgency to complete the process without delay and to focus on rebuilding the country after years of conflict. Therefore, I would like to call upon the political actors once again to overcome political infighting and to demonstrate that political compromise can prevail in the greater interests of the Iraqi people. And in doing so, I would also like to remind them that there are excellent and experienced Iraqi women who are well-qualified to perform the job.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source
“Ms. Hennis-Plasschaert: I am honoured to briefthe Council today for the very first time in current capacity. As Council members know, the collaborative spirit between the leading parliamentary blocs four months ago allowed the consensual nomination of Mr. Adil Abd al-Mahdi as the Prime Minister-designate. However, to date the Government of Iraq remains incomplete. Four ministerial positions are still vacant, with three of them - Interior, Defence and Justice - being subject to fierce disagreements among political parties and political blocs. Within this context, multiple parliamentary sessions have been adjourned, interrupted or boycotted, and as a result the implementation of the Government programme has made little headway. As we speak, the Iraqi Parliament is in a one-month recess and will reconvene only in early March.”
2019-02-13 · UN Security Council · Security Council, S/PV.8462 (2019) · source