Iraq’s Human Rights Commitments Endorsed at UN Review with KRG Participation
The milestone follows extensive discussions and deliberations between the KRG and the Federal Government of Iraq.
Jan. 31, 2025
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Iraq’s human rights commitments under the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process have been formally approved at the United Nations headquarters in Geneva, with direct participation from the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG).
The milestone follows extensive discussions and deliberations between the KRG and the Federal Government of Iraq.
KRG Joins Iraq’s Human Rights Delegation
The 48th session of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of the Human Rights Council concluded on Friday in Geneva.
Among those present were Dr. Dindar Zebari, Coordinator of International Advocacy and Representative of the KRG, Minister of Justice Khalid Shwani from the Federal Government of Iraq, and Ambassador Abdulkarim Hashim, Iraq’s Permanent Representative to Geneva.
Representatives from both the federal and regional governments participated in discussions that culminated in the approval of Iraq’s commitments.
Over the course of several days, international representatives provided observations and recommendations on Iraq’s human rights record.
On Jan. 27, the Federal Government of Iraq and KRG delegation reviewed these recommendations, engaging in further meetings to refine Iraq’s commitments in consultation with the Troika Committee and Human Rights Council experts.
263 Recommendations Under Review
A total of 263 recommendations were directed at Iraq during the 48th session, covering a wide range of human rights issues.
The Iraqi government is now required to formally communicate its stance—whether accepting or rejecting specific recommendations—to the Human Rights Council.
This step will shape the implementation process, which will be evaluated at the 49th UPR session.
The Troika Committee, consisting of representatives from Chile, Burundi, and the Marshall Islands, played a key role in preparing the report and recommendations for Iraq.
Their involvement ensured a structured assessment of Iraq’s human rights progress and commitments.
KRG’s Role in Shaping Iraq’s Human Rights Commitments
The participation of KRG representatives underscores the regional government’s active role in human rights advocacy within Iraq.
The inclusion of KRG officials in these high-level discussions highlights the importance of coordination between Erbil and Baghdad in fulfilling international human rights obligations.
As Iraq prepares to respond to the recommendations and implement necessary reforms, the engagement of both federal and regional institutions will be crucial in advancing human rights protections across the country.
The final decision on Iraq’s commitments will be presented at the upcoming UPR session, setting the stage for further accountability and progress in human rights governance.
