Baghdad: Minister of Justice Khaled Shawani has affirmed that the Iraqi government is advancing a comprehensive program that places significant emphasis on human rights.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Shawani led Iraq’s delegation to discuss the fourth report of the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva, showcasing Iraq’s commitment to implementing recommendations from previous reviews and highlighting progress made in legislative, executive, and judicial spheres.

In his address, Shawani detailed Iraq’s journey towards stability and development, underscored by the 2021 parliamentary elections and the formation of a consensus government. He emphasized the government’s strategic focus on economic reform, poverty reduction, health and education sector development, and infrastructure improvement, aiming to establish security and uphold the rule of law.

Shawani also highlighted Iraq’s commitment to digital transformation, aiming to modernize government procedures and improve public services through advanced technology. He noted the successful completion of a national population and housing census in 2024, marking a significant step in Iraq’s development agenda.

Further, he outlined plans to bolster the economic sector through projects like the Grand Faw Port and improving the investment environment, which have resulted in significant progress in Iraq’s industrial and agricultural sectors. The government is also focused on providing adequate housing, with plans to establish new cities with integrated services.

Regarding detention centers, Shawani explained efforts to improve conditions, including drafting a law on alternative penalties, expanding prison facilities, and ensuring healthcare and education for inmates. The government also operates a complaints mechanism for inmates to report human rights violations, ensuring Iraq’s judiciary remains independent and professional.

Shawani highlighted Iraq’s legislative advancements aimed at aligning with international human rights standards, including laws on legal aid, freedom of expression, juvenile justice, and anti-human trafficking. He emphasized Iraq’s collaboration with international organizations to combat terrorism and human trafficking and its commitment to preventing child recruitment in armed conflicts.

The government remains steadfast in promoting human rights values across all strategic plans, ensuring governance under a democratic system that guarantees justice, equality, and a dignified life for all citizens, free from discrimination of any kind.