I thank our briefers Special Adviser Khan and Ms. Murad for their detailed presentations. The on-going investigations of crimes committed by ISIL in Iraq will help to end impunity and bring justice to the victims.
The personal tragedies of the many who have suffered due to ISIL, such as the testimony of Ms. Murad, need to be heard. The personal accounts further underline the important work that UNITAD is doing. In that regard, I join others in recognizing the tremendous efforts that Mr. Khan has made while leading the team with utmost dedication.
Estonia acknowledges the successful work carried out by UNITAD during the last reporting period, despite the challenging circumstances in the political and security sphere, as well as in light of the COVID-19 restrictions.
We recognize the recovery of the 103 Yazidi victims from nine mass graves. Although a solemn affair, we commend UNITAD’s efforts in cooperation with Iraqi authorities to help to ensure that the commemoration of the victims takes place in line with local traditions and customs. We look forward to seeing the outcome of the highly necessary Interfaith Dialogue, which helps to engage with religious communities seeking to engage in accountability processes.
We fully support UNITAD in their efforts to strengthen the capacity of Iraqi authorities, and commend the significant progress made in terms of using new resources and technical innovations. In particular, we would like to highlight the collection and digitalization of extensive internal ISIL documentation through effective cooperation with Iraqi institutions.
We welcome the arrangement between UNITAD and the Iraqi judiciary, allowing the sharing of information about financial crimes committed in connection with ISIL activities in Iraq. It is a notable step as it paves the way for even stronger cooperation in the future.
We value UNITAD’s work, as it meaningfully contributes to achieving accountability in Iraq with full respect for the principles and best practices of the United Nations.
I would also like to stress the importance of the continued work of UNITAD through the respective UNITAD special units on the issues of sexual and gender-based crimes and crimes against children; focus of witness protection, as well as psychological support for witnesses and survivors to avoid secondary trauma.