National Coordinating Committee (NCC)

The National Coordinating Committee (NCC) was the entity designated by the Government of Iraq to help ensure the activities of the Investigative Team were facilitated and supported as it worked to implement its mandate. The framework guiding this cooperation is outlined in paragraph 44 of the Terms of Reference (S/2018/118, Annex), and refers particularly 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.

To maintain a strong working relationship, UNITAD and the NCC met regularly to advance ongoing operational matters and held annual retreats to discuss the strategic direction of the Team. This resulted in extensive cooperation over the years with the Iraqi authorities, notably linked to investigations, evidence collection and capacity-building activities. A series of special events highlighting the fruitful cooperation between the Team and Government of Iraq were held at regular intervals.

UNITAD worked closely with the NCC in the implementation of Security Council resolution 2697 (2023), and the overall drawdown and liquidation of the mission. The Team regularly kept the NCC abreast of the progress being made to conclude the mandate in an orderly fashion.