Iraqi Justice Minister Dr. Khalid Shwani met with UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan in Baghdad to discuss strengthening human rights cooperation. Their discussions focused on justice sector reform, detention conditions, forcibly disappeared persons, and Iraq’s commitment to international humanitarian standards.
Iraqi Justice Minister Dr. Khalid Shwani welcomed the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq, Dr. Mohamed Al Hassan, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Baghdad on June 25, 2025. The high-level meeting addressed comprehensive cooperation frameworks between Iraq and the United Nations on critical human rights issues.
Dr. Shwani emphasized Iraq’s commitment to working closely with the International Commission for Human Rights, aligning with the country’s international obligations and established legal standards. The Minister highlighted the Iraqi government’s prioritization of human rights implementation, particularly regarding recommendations from UN agencies and global organizations.
The Justice Minister noted Iraq’s significant progress through enhanced cooperation with international bodies, including the International Committee of the Red Cross and other relevant institutions. He stressed that maintaining these partnerships remains integral to ongoing institutional reform efforts aimed at achieving justice and protecting human dignity.
Justice Sector Reform and Rule of Law
The discussions encompassed justice sector reform initiatives and promoting rule of law across Iraqi institutions. Both officials addressed the completion of official and sustainable entitlement processes for the Iraqi High Commission for Human Rights, establishing frameworks for improved governance and accountability.
Detention conditions emerged as a key focus area, with both sides emphasizing alignment with international standards. The meeting explored mechanisms to ensure proper treatment of detainees and prisoners while maintaining security requirements within Iraq’s justice system.
Addressing Disappeared Persons and Citizen Rights
The conversation addressed the critical situation of forcibly disappeared persons, detainees, and prisoners throughout Iraq. Both officials stressed the importance of ensuring citizens not convicted of crimes can return to their homes, lands, and villages according to laws consistent with international human rights principles.
This discussion centered on respecting dignity and equality before the law for all Iraqis, regardless of background or circumstances. The framework emphasized due process and legal protections for vulnerable populations affected by displacement or detention.
Dr. Al Hassan praised the Ministry’s efforts in promoting justice and upholding human rights standards across all sectors of Iraqi society. He reaffirmed the United Nations’ continued support for Iraq’s justice initiatives and commitment to sustained collaboration in protecting human rights.
The UN representative commended the Ministry of Justice’s positive engagement with the United Nations, noting the spirit of transparency and rule of law that characterizes their cooperation. He emphasized the UN’s ongoing support for Iraq’s efforts to strengthen justice, equality, and accountability while combating impunity.
