Undersecretary for Multilateral and Legal Affairs Delivers Iraq’s Statement at 58th Session of Human Rights Council – High-Level Segment

Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Multilateral and Legal Affairs Ambassador Shorsh Khalid Saeed, delivered the statement of the Republic of Iraq during the high-level segment of the 58th session of the Human Rights Council, held in Geneva on Monday, 24 February 2025.

In his statement, the Undersecretary condemned the continued aggression of the occupying forces on the Gaza Strip and the targeting of unarmed civilians, which led to the martyrdom of more than 50,000 Palestinians, most of them women and children, in blatant violation of international human rights law, as well the Undersecretary expressed deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation, and called for an end to the forced displacement of the Palestinian people.

Ambassador Shorsh Khalid Saeed highlighted Iraq’s achievements at the current stage, including the census for the first time since 1997, and tangible progress in the economic sector, such as launching the Development Road Project, completing the first phases of Al Faw Port, and launching the strategic plan for the years 2024-2030, he also referred to the progress made in the field of women’s empowerment and minority representation in various sectors of society.

Meanwhile, Undersecretary Saeed announced Iraq’s candidature for Human Rights Council for the 2026-2028 term, expressing his hope that countries would support this candidacy. He stressed Iraq’s commitment to working with everyone to protect and promote human rights, with a focus on addressing the negative impacts of climate change and assisting developing countries in embracing adaptation programs.