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UN: Iraqi Rights Situation Still Raises 'Serious' Concerns


UN Iraq envoy Martin Kobler (center) visited the Al-Manar displaced-persons camp outside Baghdad in March.
UN Iraq envoy Martin Kobler (center) visited the Al-Manar displaced-persons camp outside Baghdad in March.
The United Nations says Iraq still has serious problems in terms of human rights as the country continues its transition after years of dictatorship.

A UN report released on May 30 expressed concern over the high level of civilian casualties, arbitrary arrests and prolonged detentions, poor conditions at detention facilities, violence against women, widespread poverty, and high unemployment.

The report noted that "there is no democracy without respect for human rights."

In a statement accompanying the report, Martin Kobler, the UN special envoy to Iraq, called on the Iraqi authorities to urgently address the rights situation.

The UN listed 35 recommendations to strengthen human rights in Iraq, including ensuring the independent inspection of jails and curbing the practice of condoning so-called honor crimes against women and girls.

With reporting by AFP
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