Joint UN-Iraqi report cites need for greater efforts on development targets

A new report by the United Nations and Iraq cites progress by the country in areas such as reducing hunger and child mortality, as well as the need to greater efforts to boost primary school enrolment and improve access to safe water and sanitation.

They have agreed to step up efforts to address these issues by 2015, the target date for achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), the poverty alleviation and social development objectives that include slashing extreme poverty, reducing maternal and child mortality rates and fighting diseases.

“The Millennium Development Goals for Iraq contain a set of key milestones for achieving a better future for the country and its people,” said Christine McNab, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq.

“Supporting Iraq to achieve the MDGs is among the United Nations’ top priorities as this will ensure a better life for millions of Iraqis including those who will make Iraq’s future: the youth and the children,” she added.

One of the report’s key points is that almost a quarter of Iraqis live in poverty, spending less than the equivalent of $2.20 per person per day.

In addition, more than half of Iraqi children do not complete their primary education on time and, despite progress achieved in reducing child mortality, the country has the second highest rate in the region.

The report, released late last week, is part of an outreach campaign launched by the UN and the Government to promote and raise awareness of the importance of the MDGs as part of the development efforts agreed upon in the 2011-2014 UN Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) signed in May.

That plan targets five key areas: ensuring inclusive economic growth; environmental management; promoting good governance and protecting human rights; boosting access to basic services for all; and stepping up investment in women, youth and children.

“Over the coming five years we will work closely with the Government of Iraq and key partners – including civil society, academia and the private sector – to promote the MDGs and raise awareness on the importance of achieving them in line with Iraq’s national priorities,” Ms. McNab stated.