Cooperation with the National Coordinating Committee (NCC)

Designated by the Government of Iraq (GoI), the NCC represents a key interlocutor for UNITAD, and helps ensure the Team’s work receives sustained facilitation and support.

UNITAD has continuously held strategic discussions with the NCC, including 2- day comprehensive workshops to discuss the work of UNITAD, held in January 2022 and June 2023.

Through the NCC, the Government of Iraq ensures that UNITAD is provided with all necessary assistance to fulfil its mandate, in accordance with the Team’s Terms of Reference, particularly with respect to:

• Freedom of movement throughout the territory of Iraq;
• Unhindered access to all places and establishments, and freedom to meet and interview representatives of national, local and military authorities, community leaders, non-governmental organizations and other institutions, and any person who may have evidence that is considered necessary for the fulfilment of the mandate, in an environment of security, confidentiality and tranquility;
• Unhindered access for individuals and organizations wishing to meet the Investigative Team;
• Free access to all sources of information, including documentary material and physical evidence;
• Appropriate security arrangements for the personnel and documents of the Investigative Team, without restricting its freedom of movement and its investigations; and
• Protection of victims and witnesses and all those who come into contact with the Investigative Team, and an undertaking that no such person shall, as a result of such contact, suffer harassment, threats, acts of intimidation, ill-treatment or reprisals.

The Terms of Reference regarding the UNITAD’s activities provide a clear and stable overarching framework for cooperation between the GoI and UNITAD. Paragraph 43 of the terms of reference confirms in particular that the Investigative Team, its personnel, records, archives, property and assets will enjoy the privileges and immunities, exemptions and facilities provided for in the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations of 13 February 1946.