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The Basra Compact, a flagship partnership to revive the economy in southern Iraq
Basra, 05 May 2015 – The authorities of Basra and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) today signed a flagship agreement, the Basra Compact, aiming at strengthening participatory and accountable governance and reviving the economic activity in the southern governorate, which is not just oil-rich but needs to invest in its human capacity and private sector development. Protecting the cultural and ecological heritage of the Mesopotamian Marshlands is also a priority.
Despite being the richest governorate and hosting the main port in Iraq, Umm Qasr—the only shipping hub in the country—Basra is one of the most affected by poverty and chronic unemployment with 16.1% of the population living below the poverty line of US$ 2.5 per day and facing staggering challenges in terms of access to services.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with Basra authorities outlines future cooperation in the areas of decentralization, financial management and budget execution, environment protection, private sector development including micro, small and medium enterprises, and supporting the governorate’s 5-year strategic planning.
“Working with local partners is a fundamental element of national ownership,” the Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General and UNDP Resident Representative, Lise Grande, said. “This translates into UNDP’s support for the local network of the Global Compact promoting responsible business practices in the areas of gender, human rights, labour standards, environment, service delivery and anti-corruption,” she explained.
UNDP has nearly 40 years of experience in Iraq leading the UN’s development work, providing knowledge and practical expertise. In its long-term engagement with the government and the people of Iraq, UNDP focuses on inclusive participation, accountability, access to justice, women’s empowerment, security sector reform, decentralization and private sector development. In particular, UNDP supports the government’s 4-year development plans (2014-2017).
Photos by UNAMI PIO.
A look at the longest run of compact shelving in the library, on the first floor and containing primarily law reviews and journals.