Baghdad, Iraq; 05 October 2020 -The Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) and the United Nations Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator in Iraq, Ms Irena Vojá?ková-Sollorano visited Basra yesterday, reaffirming the UN’s long-term commitment to supporting the Government of Iraq in current challenges, particularly in the wake of COVID-19.
Ms Vojá?ková-Sollorano was accompanied by Ms. Zena Ali Ahmad, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Iraq and Hamida Ramadhani Lasseko, Country Representative of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), Iraq.
During a meeting with Basra Governor H.E Mr. Asaad al-Eidani, the Resident Coordinator discussed the challenges facing communities in Basra, including adequate healthcare amidst the pandemic and the need to encourage continued education, particularly for girls. She also met with representatives from civil society to express support for more robust environmental protection measures, long-term employment opportunities, and respect for human rights.
“From providing reliable and safe water sources, to establishing quality health infrastructure, to boosting employment opportunities for Basra’s youth – the UN has made a positive impact across Basra. But more needs to be done,” said Resident Coordinator Vojá?ková-Sollorano.
“We can’t deny that the outbreak of COVID-19 has brought on a unique set of challenges to a community that was already struggling to access basic services. In my discussions with the Governor and civil society members, one thing was clear – a collective desire to ensure these needs are addressed, and the most vulnerable communities In Basra are protected,” she said, adding “The UN stands ready to support this effort.”