Baghdad, August 3, 2023* – The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Iraq and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, delivered a poignant speech today in Baghdad at an event marking The 9th Annual Commemoration of Victims of the Genocide Against Yazidis and other Iraqi Components. The event aimed to remember and honor the victims of the tragic genocide while advocating for unity and prioritizing humanity over political or partisan interests.
In her address, Ms. Hennis-Plasschaert emphasized the crucial importance of placing people before politics. She reiterated the need to focus on the well-being and rights of individuals, irrespective of their background or beliefs. The SRSG's powerful message underscored the necessity of collective efforts to ensure justice, healing, and the prevention of such heinous acts in the future.
The commemoration event brought together individuals from diverse communities, fostering a spirit of solidarity and shared humanity. Through this event, participants renewed their commitment to fostering tolerance, understanding, and cooperation among different groups in Iraq.
The full transcript of Ms. Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert's remarks at The 9th Annual Commemoration of Victims of the Genocide Against Yazidis and other Iraqi Components can be accessed via the following links:
- [English Transcript]
- [Arabic Transcript]
- [Kurdish Transcript]
The United Nations remains dedicated to promoting inclusivity, human rights, and reconciliation in Iraq and around the world. The annual commemoration serves as a solemn reminder of the past atrocities while encouraging a collective commitment to preventing such tragedies from occurring in the future.