As a demonstration of support for Iraq’s democratic process, the United States is providing $9.7 million to fund the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq’s (UNAMI) electoral support activities across the country. This grant, provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), will bolster efforts by the Government of Iraq and Iraqi civil society to hold free and fair elections and enhance voter engagement.
UNAMI, through its Office of Electoral Assistance, is an internationally-recognized electoral mission that has been working closely with Iraq’s Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) to strengthen its understanding of electoral processes and management. The United States Government is a longstanding supporter of UNAMI and IHEC.
“The United States is committed to listening to Iraqi needs and providing tailored support that promotes Iraqi sovereignty and stability,” said USAID/Iraq Mission Director John Cardenas, “This USAID funding will ensure UNAMI’s ability to effectively implement its most pressing electoral assistance activities in preparation for the upcoming 2021 Iraqi parliamentary elections.”
USAID’s funding to UNAMI’s electoral support activities in Iraq will run until February 2023 and will be implemented in two phases. USAID funds are contributing to the recruitment and deployment of seven electoral experts and two IT advisors to provide assistance on electoral preparations at the national and regional/governorate level. Additionally, USAID support will focus on building the capacity of the Governorate Electoral Offices of the IHEC, including advising and supporting their electoral planning and coordination efforts and preparing and managing a Results Management System. Funding will also go towards developing a code of conduct for political advisors participating in the electoral process.